Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End (Japanese title: 葬送のフリーレン, Sousou no Frieren) is a unique fantasy story that explores the “aftermath” of a hero’s journey. It began serialization in 2020 in Weekly Shonen Sunday, and is set in a world after the Demon King has been defeated. The manga follows the long travels of Frieren, an elf mage, after the victory. As an elf with a lifespan far longer than humans, Frieren experiences time differently – and through farewells with old comrades and new encounters, she embarks on a journey “to understand humans.” This philosophical and poignant tale has been highly acclaimed both in Japan and abroad. In 2021 it won the prestigious Manga Taisho Award (Grand Prize) and the Tezuka Osamu Cultural Prize (New Creator Prize). As of 2026, the manga’s collected volumes have over 32 million copies in circulation, and it has been adapted into anime: Season 1 (two cours, 28 episodes total) aired in 2023, and Season 2 is airing now (started January 2026).
In this article, under the theme of “Frieren Season 2 Character Popularity Ranking,” we will delve into the results of the official popularity polls (1st and 2nd contests) and thoroughly explain the appeal of the characters. We’ll also touch on the latest anime information and even how the series is received overseas. Updated with the most current info as of 2026, this comprehensive guide will help readers rediscover the charm of Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End. Let’s dive in!
What Is Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End? – Story Overview & World Setting Recap
Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End is a fantasy manga written by Kanehito Yamada (story) and illustrated by Tsukasa Abe. The story begins at the “end of the adventure” – after a party led by the hero Himmel has defeated the Demon King following a long quest and brought peace to the land. The protagonist Frieren is an elven mage with a lifespan of over a thousand years. After defeating the Demon King, she sets off on a journey alone, promising her companions that they’ll reunite “to watch the next meteor shower.” However, when she returns 50 years later, her human friends have grown old, and the hero Himmel ultimately passes away from old age. Seeing her dear friend’s life reach its end – what to Frieren was but a fleeting moment in her long life – moves her to tears. This becomes the catalyst for her “journey to learn about humans,” which is how the story begins.
This unusual premise allows Frieren to deeply explore themes of the passage of time and the mortality of humans, posing philosophical questions to the reader. In fact, many overseas fans have expressed being profoundly moved: “Seeing the ephemerality of human relationships from Frieren’s long-lived perspective was deeply touching,” “It made me rethink the importance of time and connections with people,” and so on. Though Frieren is a fantasy, its reflective take on travel and life’s aftermath resonates with readers across generations and borders.
The world of Frieren is a medieval European-style fantasy realm. It features familiar fantasy races like elves, dwarves, and demons (a demonic race hostile to humans), and magic is an integral part of the culture. However, unlike a typical hero’s adventure tale, this story does not center on the journey to defeat the Demon King – that adventure is already over. The starting point is instead “the peaceful era after the Demon King’s defeat.” Throughout the land, there are remnants of the battles against the Demon King’s army and legends of the hero’s party. Frieren and her new companions travel in the shadow of that history, visiting places such as Himmel’s hometown, battlegrounds where they fought demons in the past, and ultimately journeying toward Æolor (the “Land of Gold”), the resting place of souls that serves as Frieren’s final destination. In these travels, past and present interweave to create poignant episodes.
One of the series’ charms is its contrast between quiet moments and intense action. We get warm, often comical everyday scenes that can shift suddenly into serious, high-stakes magical battles. The manga’s use of “negative space” – conveying emotion with what’s left unsaid or unseen – has been highly praised. We also see Frieren gradually forming new bonds: she takes on an apprentice, a young girl named Fern, and later travels with a warrior named Stark. Through their journey together, the story conveys the preciousness of accumulating irreplaceable time with others. Thanks to these strong themes and storytelling, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End is hailed as one of the best fantasy works of the 2020s. After the anime adaptation, it even achieved the extraordinary feat of ranking #1 on MyAnimeList at one point with a score of 9.32, the highest ever recorded on the site for a time.
Official Popularity Polls History: From the 1st to the 2nd Contest
Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End has held two official character popularity contests so far. The first poll took place in 2022 to celebrate surpassing 100 manga chapters and the announcement of the anime adaptation. The second poll was about two years later, in March 2024, timed after Season 1 of the anime had finished airing, and it drew an even bigger response. First, let’s summarize each poll’s details and results, and highlight the main takeaways.
The 1st Popularity Poll – Characters & Results
The 1st official popularity poll was conducted in 2022 in Weekly Shonen Sunday magazine. It included a whopping 100 characters who had appeared up through Chapter 100 of the manga. Interestingly, the ballot wasn’t limited to just people – a few quirky entries were also included (for example, “that absurdly giant hamburger steak” – a food item from the story – was an actual entry), which became a talking point among fans. Voting was done via a special page on Shogakukan’s website, and there was no limit on how many votes one person could cast. Uniquely, the poll had a point system where different voting methods gave different point values:
- Voting for a character with a click on the website: 1 point
- Voting by tweeting about your favorite character on X (Twitter): 1,000 points
- Following the official X account and tweeting your vote: 10,000 points
Because social media shares awarded such huge points, the final vote counts (points) ballooned into the millions. The results were announced in the Weekly Shonen Sunday issue of December 7, 2022.
Below are the Top 10 characters from the 1st popularity poll and their point totals. (Note: “points” here reflect the poll’s unique scoring system after all the multipliers.)
| Rank | Character | Points |
| 1st | Himmel | 17,354,803 pts |
| 2nd | Frieren | 11,820,565 pts |
| 3rd | Mimic | 8,701,779 pts |
| 4th | Macht of the Golden Land | 8,079,639 pts |
| 5th | Fern | 6,446,329 pts |
| 6th | Stark | 3,877,410 pts |
| 7th | Denken | 2,152,167 pts |
| 8th | Hero of the South | 1,685,786 pts |
| 9th | Sein | 1,559,179 pts |
| 10th | Aura the Guillotine | 1,415,105 pts |
1st Place: Himmel (the Hero)
Himmel, the hero who defeated the Demon King at the very start of the story, claimed the top spot. At first glance he’s a bit of a narcissist who calls himself handsome, but his caring and gentle personality earned him immense support from readers. Even 50 years later, as an old man, Himmel’s words and memory continue to influence Frieren, and many fans agreed with his win: “Of course Himmel the Hero takes #1!” “Totally deserved.” On social media, there was an outpouring of approval. Himmel’s enduring impact on the story – being able to move Frieren’s heart even after his death – solidified him as a beloved character.
2nd Place: Frieren (protagonist)
Frieren, the elven mage journeying to learn about humans, came in second place. A member of Himmel’s party and a bit of a magic nerd with a cool demeanor, Frieren captured many readers’ hearts when she shed tears upon Himmel’s death. Her ageless strength, underlying loneliness, and gradual emotional growth all received high praise, placing her at #2. In the anime, Frieren is voiced by Atsumi Tanezaki, whose delicate performance – especially in portraying Frieren’s subtle emotions – was very well received.
3rd Place: Mimic
The Mimic is a monster that disguises itself as a treasure chest. Despite only a few appearances in the story, the Mimic made a huge impression by repeatedly swallowing Frieren whole – an absurdly funny running gag that earned the character a lot of fans. It shockingly ranked #3. Reactions ranged from disbelief to amusement: “It barely appears compared to the top 2, so isn’t it effectively ? ” “I can’t believe Mimic got third, that’s hilarious.” The Mimic has become something of a beloved joke character – a symbol of the series’ quirky sense of humor.
4th Place: Macht of the Golden Land
Macht is one of the Demon King’s elite “Seven Sages of Destruction,” a powerful demon who can turn everything to gold (his spell Diaglöse). Appearing in the so-called “Golden Land arc” of the story, his overwhelming magic and imposing presence gathered a lot of support. Among demon characters, he ranked highest in the 1st poll, showing that strong villain characters are also popular with fans.
5th Place: Fern
Fern is a young girl who becomes Frieren’s apprentice and a genius mage in her own right. She was orphaned in a war and raised by Heiter (the priest from the hero’s party), so she’s a calm, responsible character. Traveling with Frieren, Fern sometimes ends up acting like Frieren’s “mom” – an endearing quality that boosted her popularity. Comments like “Fern is so cute” and “I love how earnest she is” were common, and she was the top-ranking young female character at #5. In the anime she’s voiced by Kana Ichinose, whose performance was praised as “just how I imagined Fern would sound.”
6th Place: Stark
Stark is a young warrior who was the apprentice of Eisen (the hero party’s dwarf warrior). He’s cowardly by nature and shy around women, but has tremendous latent combat ability – a gap that fans find charming. Known affectionately as the “scaredy-cat swordsman who’s actually crazy strong,” Stark especially resonated with many male readers who see a bit of themselves in him. Voiced by Chiaki Kobayashi in the anime, Stark’s blend of timidness and strength was perfectly balanced, earning a lot of praise.
7th Place: Denken
Denken is an elderly Imperial Court mage who opposes Frieren’s group at one point. He’s portrayed as a highly skilled magic user and a schemer. Fans were drawn to his cool-headed, seasoned presence, landing him at #7. In the anime, Jirou Saitou voices Denken with a deep, weighty tone that many felt matched the character’s gravitas.
8th Place: Hero of the South
As his title implies, the “Hero of the South” was lauded as the strongest human of his time. He fought the Demon King’s army in the southern lands during the same era as Himmel. In the story, he’s mentioned in flashbacks and legends rather than seen directly. Despite very few actual appearances, this character captured fans’ imaginations and managed to rank in the top 10, which was a big surprise. It seems the aura of an “overpowered, mysterious legend” was enough to earn him a strong following.
9th Place: Sein
Sein (often spelled Sein, sometimes “Zain”) is a former priest and the apprentice of Heiter. He’s notorious for loving booze, tobacco, and gambling – very un-priestly habits – which oddly makes him likable and relatable. He’s actually quite powerful, but it’s his down-to-earth, flawed personality that endeared him to readers as a “lovably hopeless” character. Voiced by Yuuichi Nakamura in the anime, Sein’s laid-back, gruff voice added to his charm and popularity.
10th Place: Aura the Guillotine
Aura is a cruel and coldhearted female demon, one of the Demon King’s Seven Sages of Destruction. Known as “Aura the Guillotine,” she wields a fearsome subjugation spell (Azelihood) that enslaves souls by weighing them on a scale. Despite being an antagonist, she broke into the top 10 of the 1st poll, indicating fans’ appreciation for a formidable villain. Voiced by Ayana Taketatsu in the anime, Aura’s performance – blending seductiveness with menace – was called a perfect fit for the character.
Those were the Top 10 results of the first poll. This lineup shows that not only the protagonist and main heroes, but even villains and gag characters are widely loved in Frieren. Looking beyond the Top 10, the rankings continued as follows: 11th Heiter, 12th Land, 13th Übel, 14th Solitär, 15th Serie, 16th Flamme, 17th Eisen, 18th Methode, 19th Wirbel, and 20th Sense. Notably, some “non-human” entries like “Hamburger Steak” (ranked 23rd) or “Jumbo Berry Special” (25th) – both items from the story – actually outranked some human characters! These humorous results showcase the fans’ playful side and the series’ quirky appeal.
The 2nd Popularity Poll – Expanded Scope & Voting Method
The 2nd official popularity poll was held from March 1–24, 2024, after the end of the anime’s first season. This time the pool of characters was expanded to 116 entries (up from 100 in the first poll). New characters introduced in later story arcs (for example, characters from the First-Class Mage Exam arc, and the remaining members of the Seven Sages of Destruction) were added to the ballot. As with the first poll, there were also some joke entries, which fans enjoyed.
Voting was again conducted online with unlimited votes per person. Unlike the first poll, the exact point-multiplier rules weren’t publicly detailed, but essentially fans could vote as many times as they liked for their favorite characters (likely still through clicks or social media, but the results were ultimately announced in terms of pure vote counts rather than “points”). During the voting period, the official X (Twitter) account even released interim rankings, which sparked intense “campaigning” among fans. For example, on March 10th, the mid-point update had Aura at 9th place; by March 18th’s update she had risen to 4th – news that fired up discussions with comments like “Aura’s catching up!” across the fanbase.
The total participation was enormous. On March 25th, right after the poll closed, the official X account announced that the total votes cast exceeded 12,688,733 votes. This staggering number shows even greater enthusiasm than the first poll. The final results were revealed in Weekly Shonen Sunday and on the official X account, listing the top 30 characters. Now, let’s dive into the 2nd poll’s ranking – especially the Top 10 – and see what changed and what surprises it brought.
Second Poll Ranking Results (Top 10)
The final results of the 2nd popularity poll were announced with the Top 10 characters and their vote counts (each vote counted as one vote this time, no point multipliers). The rankings saw some shifts from the first poll, with the influence of the anime and new story developments leading to a few upsets. Here are the top ten:
| Rank | Character | Votes |
| 1st | Himmel | 1,239,533 votes |
| 2nd | Aura the Guillotine | 1,045,369 votes |
| 3rd | Fern | 864,863 votes |
| 4th | Übel | 847,205 votes |
| 5th | Frieren | 816,279 votes |
| 6th | Lawine | 675,744 votes |
| 7th | Stark | 587,392 votes |
| 8th | Macht of the Golden Land | 353,780 votes |
| 9th | Solitär | 352,524 votes |
| 10th | Mimic | 341,347 votes |
(Note: The 2nd poll was tallied by straightforward vote counts with no point system. Out of roughly 12.69 million total votes, the top 10 characters alone account for about 5.54 million votes.)
Now, let’s look at each of these characters, how their ranking changed from the previous poll, and what makes them stand out.
1st Place: Himmel
Once again, Himmel the hero takes the crown, achieving a back-to-back 1st place victory. Despite being a legendary hero who defeated the Demon King and already deceased in the current timeline of the story, his unwavering charisma continues to grip fans’ hearts. Himmel playfully calls himself handsome and has a mischievous streak, but he also spent 10 years on the road with his companions and genuinely cared for them. To Frieren, every word and act of Himmel’s later proves deeply meaningful. In many ways, the story of Frieren is about “what Himmel left behind.” Given that, it felt right to many fans that this symbolic hero remains #1. Social media was flooded with congratulations: “Two-time champ, congrats!” “Himmel truly is the eternal hero.” His consecutive wins underscore how central he is to the series’ emotional core.
It’s worth noting that Himmel’s spot at the top didn’t waver at all (1st in both polls) – a testament to the strength of a character who underpins the whole narrative. The anime, where Himmel is voiced by Nobuhiko Okamoto, further boosted his appeal; many new fans commented, “Himmel’s kindness really comes through in his voice.” After the results, Okamoto himself celebrated on X by quoting Himmel’s line: “To me, I’m #1. What’s wrong with that?” – showing his love for the character and the series.
2nd Place: Aura the Guillotine
The biggest shake-up in the 2nd poll was Aura’s leap to second place (she was 10th previously). This demon antagonist’s dramatic rise can largely be attributed to the anime’s impact. In the first poll, only manga readers were voting, but after Season 1 aired the “Aura the Guillotine” arc, a wider audience got to witness her terrifying strength and commanding charisma. As the leader of an undead army and a cruel strategist, Aura left a strong impression on viewers. Even though she’s ruthless, moments like her face showing fear in the end gave her a touch of vulnerability, leading people to comment “She’s scary but I’m oddly drawn to her.”
Fans were astonished (in a good way) by the 2nd place finish: “Never imagined Aura would climb this high… the anime + internet hype is real,” “Aura closing the gap to Himmel by just 200k votes is incredible,” “A villain outranking the protagonist – that’s wild and awesome!” During the polling, the interim updates showed Aura’s steady ascent (from 9th to 4th to ultimately 2nd), prompting cheering like “Aura is surging, let’s go!” She truly turned out to be a dark horse, gaining newfound appreciation among Frieren fans. Even Aura’s voice actress, Ayana Taketatsu, commented that she was “thrilled to see an antagonist get so much support,” showing how the character’s appeal shone through. Aura’s success is a testament to the series’ ability to create compelling villains that fans love to hate (or just love!).
3rd Place: Fern
Frieren’s apprentice Fern secured the 3rd spot, climbing up from 5th last time and proudly representing the younger generation of characters in the top ranks. Early on, Fern comes off as quiet and not very expressive, but as the story progresses, we see her inherited awkward kindness (not unlike her master’s) and moments of girlish charm. Her tsundere-like interactions with Stark – acting prickly but truly caring – and the way she fusses over Frieren like a guardian (often to comedic effect) have endeared her to many. Fans often gush with comments like “Fern-chan is an angel!” and “I love how sweet and steadfast she is.”
In the 2nd poll, Fern’s interim ranking was as low as 10th at one point, causing some worry among her fans, but a rally in the latter half propelled her up to 3rd. This dramatic comeback led to a celebratory mood: “We all banded together when we saw her low mid-term rank,” and “I was hoping Fern would be #1, but I’m so proud of her for making top 3!” Some fans jokingly grumbled “How is Fern-chan not #1?!” – showing just how passionate her supporters are. In the anime, Fern is voiced by Kana Ichinose, who masterfully balances Fern’s calm demeanor with occasional outbursts of cuteness. Many said “Fern’s charm doubled with the anime,” contributing to her strong showing. There’s no doubt we’ll all be watching Fern’s continued growth in the story with great anticipation.
4th Place: Übel
At 4th place we have Übel, a character who first appears in the First-Class Mage Exam arc. Übel is a talkative, creepily cheerful mage who has no qualms about killing – an unsettling combination that left a big impact. She ranked 13th in the first poll, but thanks to her memorable anime debut, she broke into the top 5 this time.
The allure of Übel lies in her mysterious and unpredictable nature. In the story, it’s ambiguous whether she’s friend or foe upon introduction; her inscrutable behavior and unusual magic (we won’t spoil the specifics here!) make her fascinating to watch. Yet glimpses of a more pure or sensitive side peek through, leading fans to say things like “She has a weirdly irresistible charm” and “I’m so intrigued by Übel’s backstory.” The anime further boosted her appeal – Ikumi Hasegawa’s performance gave Übel a bewitching voice, and many viewers commented, “The voice actress’s passionate acting made me love Übel even more!” Even some Frieren fans were surprised: “I never thought she’d beat the protagonist Frieren in ranking!” – a sign that this dark-horse “anti-heroine” has amassed quite a dedicated fanbase.
5th Place: Frieren
Our protagonist Frieren finished 5th this time. It’s a bit of a drop from her 2nd place in the first poll, which some fans found surprising. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean Frieren’s popularity waned – rather, other characters surged ahead (as we’ve seen). In fact, many fans noted, “Frieren is the heart of the story; in our hearts she’s #1 regardless of the poll.” Even Nobuhiko Okamoto (Himmel’s VA) chimed in with, “To me, Frieren is #1,” emphasizing that sentiment.
Frieren is typically quiet and keeps her emotions in check, but precisely because of that, the rare moments where she shows kindness or sheds tears hit hard. Her internal struggle – regret over the days with her old party that she took for granted, and her clumsy efforts to learn what it means to be human – form the emotional backbone of the series. Many readers empathize deeply: “Journeying with Frieren makes you reflect on the meaning of time and life.” So even if she placed 5th in votes, Frieren’s importance and beloved status are unshaken.
In the anime, Frieren is voiced by Atsumi Tanezaki, whose performance has been nothing short of phenomenal (especially the powerful crying scene in Episode 1’s finale). Fans and critics alike praised how “Frieren’s feelings came across painfully clearly.” Although she didn’t top the popularity poll, Frieren is essentially the soul of the story. As the journey continues, fans remain eager to see how she grows and what she discovers – in that sense, the “emotional support” for Frieren might be 1st place in spirit, even if not in votes.
6th Place: Lawine
Ranking 6th is Lawine, a character who might surprise some by being here. Lawine is one of Aura’s underlings known as the “decapitating bureaucrats.” She appears as a small, girl-like demon who wields a huge executioner’s axe – a visual gap moe (adorable contrast) that fans clearly loved. In the first poll she was way down at 34th, but this time she skyrocketed into the Top 10.
Lawine faces off against Stark during Aura’s arc, and during that battle she even imitates a technique taught by Eisen (Stark’s master), showcasing herself as a formidable foe. At the same time, little hints in her expressions and dialogue during the fight give her a strangely endearing quality – she’s tough yet somehow cute. Fans reacted with delight: “Lawine is cute and strong, no wonder she’s popular,” and “I didn’t expect her in Top 10 but I’m happy she made it!” In the anime, Manaka Iwami voices Lawine with a performance that mixes childlike innocence and madness, which many said “made her even more appealing.” This likely contributed to her leap in popularity. Lawine’s high placement is a fun surprise, proving that even secondary characters can steal the spotlight in Frieren.
7th Place: Stark
Coming in 7th is Stark, down one notch from 6th in the last poll but still firmly in the upper ranks. Stark is the lovable warrior who is timid and awkward, especially around women, yet can unleash unbelievable swordsmanship when it counts. Fans adore this contrast and his personal growth, often calling him “the little brother character you want to protect” or noting “I love that he’s secretly the strongest in the room.”
When the 2nd poll took place, the anime was in the First-Class Mage Exam arc, where Stark had somewhat fewer standout moments (since that part focuses more on Fern and Frieren). Some fans half-jokingly excused his drop with, “Well, during the exam arc he fades into the background a bit – given the timing, he did well!” Even so, Stark managed to hold onto 7th, likely thanks to his earlier shining moments – for instance, his “awakening” fight against the demon Draht earlier in the series left a lasting impression. On the lighter side, his interactions with Fern often get comments like “these two are basically an adorable couple!” On the heavier side, an emotional scene involving his elder brother Stolz moved many to tears. There are even comments calling Stark “the hidden protagonist” and many saying “I just want Stark to be happy.” Clearly, expectations are high for our timid-turned-mighty swordsman’s future, and his consistent popularity reflects that support.
8th Place: Macht of the Golden Land
At 8th we have Macht, the Golden Land sage, holding onto a Top 10 spot (down from 4th last time). Macht is one of the strongest of the Seven Sages of Destruction, a demon so feared by humans that they called him “the Devil” itself. His forbidden magic and enormous mana reserve made his arc one of the most impactful in the story.
By the time of the 2nd poll, Macht had not yet appeared in the anime, yet he still garnered enough votes to be among the top characters – a testament to the manga readers’ strong impression of him. However, with fellow demon characters like Aura and Lawine surging due to anime exposure, Macht ended up as the third-highest demon this round. On social media, people remarked, “It’s amazing that Macht made Top 10 even without being in the anime yet,” and joked “He’s not even shown up in the show, but he’s already flexing, lol.” Many fans expressed anticipation for his eventual animated debut. In fact, speculation about who will voice Macht became a mini-trend (with veteran talents like Koichi Yamadera being fancast, though as of now no official casting is announced). There’s little doubt that once Frieren Season 2 (and beyond) adapts the Golden Land arc featuring Macht, this terrifying antagonist’s popularity could very well shoot up again.
9th Place: Solitär
In 9th we find Solitär, another character yet to appear in the anime (as of the poll) who managed to crack the Top 10. Solitär is an enigmatic demon girl introduced in the Golden Land arc, shrouded in mystery. She was 14th in the first poll, and has inched up into the Top 10 this time around.
Solitär serves as a sort of right-hand to Macht in the Golden Land storyline. She wields extremely powerful magic and maintains an eerie calm, which instantly made her a focal point of discussion among fans. Much about her background remains unknown, which only fuels interest: “I’m dying to know Solitär’s true identity,” “Her relationship with Macht is so intriguing,” are common sentiments from the more theory-crafting side of the fandom. The fact that she ranked along with Macht in the Top 10 of this poll hints at the popularity of the entire Golden Land arc. Fans were excited by this result: “Two characters who haven’t even appeared in the anime yet (Macht & Solitär) in Top 10, wow!” and “I can’t wait to see them animated!” Indeed, there’s a lot of anticipation to finally witness Solitär in action on screen. When that happens, expect her popularity to only grow as more viewers meet this mysterious character.
10th Place: Mimic
Rounding out the Top 10 is the Mimic once again. It dropped from 3rd in the first poll to 10th this time, but it’s still remarkable that it managed to stay in the Top 10 at all. The Mimic is, to all appearances, just a monster treasure chest without any lines of dialogue, yet fans absolutely adore it – a testament to Frieren’s ability to make even minor creatures memorable.
Reactions to the Mimic’s placement ranged from amused shock to pride: “Our beloved Mimic is #10…?! I thought it’d be higher!” But considering how little “screen time” it has, being Top 10 twice in a row is nothing short of extraordinary. It proves the “Mimic love” among the fandom is real and lasting. The authors themselves seem to know this – they’ve occasionally included Mimic-related gags in bonus manga content, acknowledging the character’s popularity. It’s unlikely the Mimic will have a major role again in the main story (never say never?), but it’s secured a permanent spot in fans’ memories and the series’ legend. This comedic oddball character will no doubt be fondly talked about by fans for years to come.
Those are the Top 10 of the 2nd official popularity poll. Overall, seven characters managed to stay in the Top 10 across both polls (Himmel, Frieren, Mimic, Macht, Fern, Stark, Aura), while three characters – Übel, Lawine, and Solitär – are newcomers to the Top 10 in the second poll. This indicates that with the progression of the story (and the anime adaptation), certain characters from later arcs gained prominence and overtook some earlier favorites. There was also much discussion about Frieren, the protagonist, ending up in 5th place. Some fans debated why the main character didn’t rank higher, but others offered insight: “Frieren’s role is to let other characters shine,” and “Main characters often don’t top popularity polls; it’s just how it goes.” Indeed, given Frieren’s ensemble-style narrative, it’s perhaps natural that fans’ votes spread out among the cast rather than all concentrating on the lead.
Notable Characters Beyond the Top 10 (Honorable Mentions & Fun Entries)
Of course, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End features many more fascinating characters outside the Top 10. Let’s spotlight some notable names from the 11th rank onward, as well as a few fun poll tidbits, to appreciate the broader cast and how they fared.
The Hero of the South, Denken, Sein – Legends and Key Players
First, we have characters like the Hero of the South, Denken, and Sein. All three made the Top 10 in the first poll but fell outside it in the second poll. However, a lower ranking doesn’t diminish their importance in the story or the love fans have for them.
- Hero of the South (1st poll 8th place): In the story’s lore, he’s a legendary hero who fought the Demon King’s forces in the southern lands concurrently with Himmel’s party in the north. He’s often referred to as “humanity’s strongest hero.” Though he has scarcely been shown directly, the mere idea of this parallel hero – a figure of awe and perhaps tragedy – earned him charismatic popularity. In the second poll, since not much new information about him had been revealed by then, he dropped in rank. But here’s exciting news: in Season 2 of the anime, it’s confirmed that the Hero of the South will finally appear (voiced by the veteran Kazuhiko Inoue). Fans are thrilled: “I can’t wait to finally see the Southern Hero in action!” and “I wonder how his story will unfold; I’d love a flashback arc.” His mystique and potential storyline have people eagerly speculating, and his eventual on-screen debut is sure to shine more light on who he was and how he impacted the world of Frieren.
- Denken (1st poll 7th place): Denken is the crafty court magician who gave Frieren’s party a really hard time in an early arc. As an imperial mage of great skill, he engaged in behind-the-scenes machinations that made him a compelling antagonist (or anti-hero figure of sorts). Mature readers especially appreciated his no-nonsense, stoic nature, commenting things like “He had this unbeatable final boss vibe, loved it,” and “That wily old mage was just so cool.” In the second poll, with new characters stealing the spotlight, Denken slipped out of Top 10. Even so, he remains a memorable figure from the series’ first half. For fans who enjoy more serious, hard-boiled characters, Denken’s presence in the story is unforgettable.
- Sein (1st poll 9th place): Sein, the easygoing ex-priest with bad habits, also just missed out on the second poll’s Top 10. While we don’t have the exact 2024 ranking, we know he was outside the top tier this time. Still, Sein is a fan favorite for many as the “mood maker” of Frieren’s journey. His laid-back humor and the way he acts as a big brother figure to Frieren, Fern, and Stark bring a warm dynamic to the group. “Sein’s chill vibe is so relaxing,” fans say, or “He’s the glue that keeps the group sane.” In terms of the story, Sein’s healing magic and experience make him an invaluable ally. Many are hoping to see more of him as the story continues, and I suspect his popularity will remain steady as long as he’s around to crack a joke and share a drink.
These characters – while not the “main four” protagonists – are crucial pieces of Frieren’s narrative tapestry. They add depth to the world and often challenge the main characters in meaningful ways. The popularity polls are just one metric; regardless of rank, each has left an indelible mark on the readers’ hearts. They illustrate how richly populated Frieren’s world is with legends, mentors, rivals, and comrades, all contributing to the story’s depth.
The Appeal of Frieren’s Female Characters: Flamme, Lawine, and More
Although Frieren is a battle-centric fantasy, it boasts a cast of compelling female characters who each bring something unique to the story. We’ve already discussed Fern, Übel, Solitär, and Aura among the top ranks. Here, let’s shine a light on two especially important women in the story’s lore: Flamme and Lawine, and mention a few others.
- Flamme (1st poll 16th place): Flamme is a legendary mage and Frieren’s mentor from centuries ago. A human woman whose name lives on over a thousand years later, she’s the one who laid down much of the knowledge and strategy used to fight demons. In the story, Flamme appears only in flashbacks (she passed away of old age long ago), but in those glimpses we see a brilliant, strong-willed young woman who had a profound influence on Frieren. Fans absolutely adore Flamme, saying, “Without Flamme, the story wouldn’t have even begun,” and praising her as “the perfect mentor.” Indeed, Flamme embodies themes of teacher-student bonds and the passing of the torch. Even after death, her diaries and teachings continue to guide Frieren, making her a key figure whose legacy drives much of the plot. You could say Flamme is the person who set all the gears of the story in motion, and many are curious if more about her might be revealed (perhaps through her own master, Serie, or other historical accounts) as the series goes on.
- Lawine (rising star in 2nd poll): We discussed Lawine earlier as the 6th place surprise – the petite ice-magic user with a giant axe and a foul mouth. Introduced in the first-class mage exam arc, Lawine can manipulate water and ice, and she pairs up (and bickers constantly) with her childhood friend Kanne during the exam. Fans fell for her tomboyish, big-sister personality wrapped in an elegant appearance. When she appeared in the latter half of Season 1, reactions were immediate: “Lawine is so cool and cute at the same time!” and “Her tsundere banter with Kanne is amazing.” While she didn’t make the absolute top of the poll, she certainly made waves, trending among fan discussions. Voiced by Sayumi Suzushiro in the anime, her lively, brash tone perfectly matched the character and was highly praised. If Lawine ever returns in future story arcs (fingers crossed), there’s a good chance her popularity could climb even higher.
Beyond those two, Frieren has other noteworthy women: Serie (Flamme’s master and one of the most powerful mages alive, essentially humanity’s grand sorceress), Methode (one of the Seven Sages of Destruction, a terrifying spider-themed demoness), Fern (whom we covered in detail), and more. Each female character in Frieren stands out with her own blend of strength, charm, and mystery. Fans often comment that “all the female characters in Frieren are amazing in their own way.” Whether it’s the intellectual authority of Serie, the eerie menace of Methode, or the pure-hearted courage of Fern, these characters greatly enrich the story. While they may not always top the popularity charts (often ceding to the main heroes or flashy villains), they are absolutely integral to the narrative and are beloved by readers for making the world of Frieren feel real and diverse. If you’re a fan of strong female characters, Frieren offers a variety to appreciate – from wise mentors and legendary pioneers to up-and-coming heroines and fearsome villainesses.
Highlights of the Frieren Anime Season 2
As of January 2026, the long-awaited Season 2 of the Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End anime has begun airing on TV. This is thrilling news for both avid manga readers and the many new fans who discovered Frieren through the first season of the anime. Let’s go over the key info about Season 2’s production, cast, and the exciting story developments to look forward to.
Production Studio and Stellar Voice Cast
The Frieren anime is produced by the renowned studio Madhouse. Known for classics like Death Note and One-Punch Man, Madhouse delivered stunning quality in Season 1, and it has returned with the same high standards for Season 2. The animation in Season 1 was widely praised – fans marveled at the gorgeous background art, the faithful character designs, and the dynamic magic battle scenes that even surpassed the manga. In interviews, the original creators themselves lauded the anime’s quality. With Season 2, Madhouse continues to helm the project, and the core creative team remains intact: director Tomoya Kitagawa, assistant director Daisuke Hara, series composer Tomohiro Suzuki, character designer(s) Maru Reiji (and team), and music composer Evan Call are all back. This consistency has fans relieved and excited, with many saying “Season 2 will no doubt have more god-tier animation” and eagerly anticipating each episode.
On the voice acting front, the main cast from Season 1 returns, bringing their acclaimed performances with them (all names without honorifics below):
- Frieren – Atsumi Tanezaki: A highly skilled voice actress known for roles like Anya in SPY×FAMILY and Dai in Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai. As Frieren, Tanezaki brilliantly captured the character’s quiet, stoic demeanor and the rare moments of intense emotion. From soft, reflective monologues to the gut-wrenching sobbing at Himmel’s funeral, her range was on full display. Fans have said “Tanezaki is Frieren; she portrays her feelings so perfectly it made me cry.”
- Fern – Kana Ichinose: One of the standout young actresses (notable as Suletta in Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury), Ichinose nails Fern’s cool, serious personality while still allowing glimpses of her tender and sometimes cheeky side. She can deliver Fern’s deadpan scoldings and, on the flip side, her girlish excitement or frustration, with equal finesse. Viewers loved how she gave Fern life, calling her performance “spot-on” and “adorable when Fern gets flustered.”
- Stark – Chiaki Kobayashi: A rising star (also voiced Mash in MASHLE and Gabimaru in Hell’s Paradise), Kobayashi has been widely praised for making Stark so endearing. He expertly delivers Stark’s awkward, self-deprecating humor and then flips to a commanding tone when Stark unleashes his power. Many commented that “Kobayashi’s Stark is too cute when he’s cowardly, and absolutely epic when he’s brave – the balance is perfect.”
- Himmel – Nobuhiko Okamoto: A veteran known for explosive characters like Bakugo in My Hero Academia, Okamoto showed a very different side as Himmel. He brought out Himmel’s playful vanity and genuine warmth in equal measure. Fans were impressed: “Okamoto’s cheerful yet gentle delivery as Himmel was chef’s kiss,” and particularly noted how heartfelt he sounded during Himmel’s farewell scenes.
- Heiter – Hiroki Touchi: With his deep, soothing voice, Touchi (famous for roles like Panthro in ThunderCats and Kurogiri in My Hero Academia) gave the priest Heiter a comforting presence. Heiter’s kindness and quiet authority came through wonderfully, adding weight to his character’s limited screen time.
- Eisen – Youji Ueda: Ueda’s distinctive, gravelly voice gave the dwarf warrior Eisen a memorable presence. Though Eisen doesn’t speak much, Ueda made every line count, portraying Eisen’s wisdom and toughness. Fans noted that Eisen, despite not appearing often, “feels like a living legend” partly thanks to Ueda’s performance.
Season 2 also introduces new characters and thus new cast members: the Hero of the South will be voiced by the esteemed Kazuhiko Inoue (famous for many roles, e.g. Kakashi in Naruto – his casting suggests a perfect fit for a dignified, mature hero); Kanne (one of the exam candidates alongside Lawine) is voiced by Azumi Waki; Lawine by Sayumi Suzushiro (as mentioned earlier); Wirbel (another exam candidate) by Kishou Taniyama; Übel by Ikumi Hasegawa; and others like Fern’s exam peers. Each of these actors has a strong reputation, and their involvement further highlights the excellent casting choices the anime has made.
The voice acting was one of the highlights of Season 1 – even international fans raved about it: “Tanezaki’s subtle portrayal of Frieren’s emotions gave me chills,” “Kobayashi’s Stark is just too lovable,” “Okamoto absolutely killed it as Himmel.” With Season 2 continuing this high caliber of talent, we can expect the characters’ charm to be even more amplified on screen. The synergy of great animation and great acting is a big reason why the Frieren anime has been such a hit.
New Episodes Preview – What to Look Forward To in Season 2
Season 2 of the anime is expected to cover what we might call the “Æolor arc” (the journey to and confrontation at the Land of Gold, where souls rest). In Season 1 (covering the first two cours), the story took us through the First-Class Mage Exam arc. Now, in Season 2, we’ll see the continuation: Frieren, Fern, and Stark proceeding northward toward their ultimate goal of Æolor, encountering their greatest challenges yet. The official Season 2 trailers and key visuals have given hints: one striking image shows Frieren and company in a beautiful, icy cavern – which manga readers will recognize as a scene on the road to the Land of Gold. This strongly suggests that the highly anticipated “Golden Land arc” (Macht’s arc) will be fully animated in this season.
One major highlight to watch for is the showdown between Frieren’s party and Macht, one of the Seven Sages of Destruction. As mentioned, Macht is an extraordinarily powerful demon – essentially the biggest obstacle remaining between Frieren and her goal. The battles in this arc are some of the most intense in the manga, involving high-level magic and mind games. We’re likely in for the largest-scale magic fights the anime has shown so far, which, given Madhouse’s track record, should be a visual spectacle. Fans are brimming with anticipation: “Just thinking about Frieren vs. Macht gives me chills,” “That scene in the manga gave me goosebumps, I can’t wait to see it in motion!” Prepare for pulse-pounding duels and possibly some of the series’ most jaw-dropping moments. At the same time, these clashes are not just flashy – they come with heavy emotional stakes and will profoundly affect Frieren. Viewers can expect both adrenaline and tears.
Season 2 is also poised to delve into new flashbacks and revelations about the past. One tantalizing possibility is more about Himmel’s era and the Hero of the South. In the PV (trailer) for Season 2, fans spotted a quick glimpse of the Hero of the South, hinting that we might finally see this legendary figure in action or learn his story. His involvement could provide an interesting parallel to Himmel and shed light on an unexplored side of the war against the Demon King. If the anime covers those parts, it will add a rich layer of context – imagine seeing the “strongest hero” in his prime, and perhaps discovering how his journey differed from or intersected with Frieren’s memories of Himmel. The contrast between Himmel (the cheerful, compassionate hero we know) and the Southern Hero (rumored to be more solitary and austere) could offer deep thematic resonance. And with Kazuhiko Inoue voicing him, we can expect a performance with gravitas that makes those moments truly impactful.
Additionally, fans are looking forward to the development of relationships in Season 2. The bond between Fern and Stark, for instance, has been slowly building – will we see any progress or cute moments that hint at something more? Their dynamic often provides lighthearted relief, and Season 2 might give us a few memorable scenes of their chemistry (manga readers can probably guess a couple of sweet moments that could get animated). Frieren herself might encounter new allies – possibly even a new traveling companion (no spoilers, but manga readers know a very interesting character who appears around this stage). If that character shows up in Season 2, it will be a fun surprise for anime-only viewers, adding a fresh dynamic to the party.
Without diving into spoiler territory, let’s just say Season 2 will likely bring a crucial emotional climax to Frieren’s long journey. The “northward quest to the resting place of souls” reaches a turning point that is both epic and heartrending. The production team has hinted as much, noting that “Season 2 will portray the heroes’ way of life with even greater nuance and dynamism.” It seems every Friday (when new episodes air, leading fans to dub it “Frieren Friday”) will be an event to look forward to. In fact, outside of Japan, international fans gather online each Friday to watch and discuss Frieren in real-time, a testament to how the series has created a weekly ritual of shared excitement and emotion. Season 2 is certain to continue this phenomenon. Some predict that once Season 2 concludes, many will experience “Frieren withdrawal” all over again – the so-called Frieren Loss that trends whenever a particularly moving episode airs – because that’s how deeply the show embeds itself in viewers’ hearts. In short, keep your tissues handy and your schedule free on Fridays, because Frieren Season 2 promises to be an unforgettable journey.
What the Rankings Say About Character Growth and Story Direction
By analyzing the two popularity polls’ outcomes and how characters’ standings changed, we can glean insights into character development within the story and hints of the series’ future direction.
One clear trend in the second poll was the rise of newer characters (like Übel, Lawine, Solitär). This mirrors how, as Frieren’s journey advances, the narrative spotlight shifts to different figures. It’s a hallmark of Frieren’s storytelling – after establishing the core cast, each story arc introduces memorable guest characters or adversaries who often steal the show. The Aura and Lawine surge corresponds to the “Aura the Guillotine arc” excitement; Übel’s popularity stems from the “First-Class Mage Exam arc”; similarly, Solitär’s presence in Top 10 reflects the fascination with the “Golden Land arc.” Essentially, the polls indicate that each arc succeeds in creating beloved characters who resonate strongly with fans, adding layers to the tapestry of the story.
Another interesting point is the drop in ranking for Frieren herself and what fans speculate from it. Some noted, “Frieren as a character is intentionally low-key, so in a popularity context she might not stand out as much as flashier personalities.” Frieren is indeed a reserved character – her development is subtle and mostly seen in how she relates to others. In popularity contests, characters with big personalities or dramatic storylines often have an edge. However, this doesn’t diminish Frieren’s role; in fact, it highlights how Frieren the series is built on interpersonal relationships. Frieren’s growth is measured in how she interacts with Fern, Stark, Himmel’s memory, or new characters she meets. So perhaps it’s natural that fans express their love for her by also loving those interactions – hence supporting the other characters involved. Frieren’s somewhat lower ranking could simply mean that Frieren has a richly loved ensemble, rather than one dominating favorite.
Looking ahead, the manga (as of 2026) has moved into new territory beyond what the anime has covered. With new arcs come new characters and developments that could shake up a future hypothetical “3rd popularity poll” if one were held. For instance, in a later arc set in a certain magic city, we meet fresh allies and enemies – one can imagine some of them quickly becoming fan favorites. Also, lingering figures like Serie (Frieren’s master’s master) or the full story of the Hero of the South might come to the forefront, potentially boosting their popularity further once their tales are told. Fans are particularly eager for anything regarding Serie – she’s been a mysterious background presence with hints of immense power, and if she gets her own focus in the story, she could easily become a top contender in popularity due to her importance in Frieren’s magical lineage.
One thing to clarify: while popularity can sometimes influence extra content (like bonus merch or spin-off short stories), it’s unlikely to dictate the main plot’s course in Frieren. The author, Kanehito Yamada, has a clear vision for the story’s thematic path. In a magazine interview, Yamada mentioned that while he’s happy to see the poll results and fan enthusiasm, he doesn’t alter the story to cater to popularity – the narrative will follow the plan he and the illustrator set out to tell. This is reassuring; it means the integrity of the story comes first. That said, popularity polls can encourage fun side content: for example, the creators might include a comedic bonus chapter with a fan-favorite character (the Mimic’s comedic cameo in an extra comic suggests they’re aware of its popularity and are happy to play along). And in terms of media mix, top characters might get more merchandise – imagine a Himmel figurine or an Aura wall scroll – which fans would surely welcome.
In the industry side of things, when a character ranks high, publishers often seize the chance to promote them. After the first poll, the manga magazine ran special illustrations of the top characters and even printed comments from the authors thanking the fans. Likewise, popular characters might appear in collaboration events or on merch like clear files, keychains, etc. So, from a fan perspective, if your favorite character did well, you might look forward to some official goodies featuring them.
In summary, the changing rankings reflect the evolving Frieren narrative – as new chapters unfold, new heroes and villains capture our hearts. It’s a sign of a healthy, dynamic story that the fanbase’s “favorites” list isn’t static but grows over time. We can predict that as Frieren’s journey continues into new lands and challenges, fresh faces will rise to claim their spot in fans’ esteem. Whether it’s an existing mystery finally unraveled or a completely new character introduction, the series keeps us on our toes. If a third popularity poll comes around in the future, don’t be surprised to see yet another reshuffle – perhaps with the likes of Serie or others making headlines. Nonetheless, the foundation is strong: Himmel, Frieren, Fern, Stark and their circle will likely always anchor the story’s emotional core, even as the surrounding cast expands. Watching how the fan community’s love spreads across this spectrum of characters is part of the fun of being in the Frieren fandom, and it speaks to the story’s richness that there’s so much to love.
Conclusion
We’ve now taken a comprehensive look at Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End through the lens of character popularity rankings, blending in the series’ 2026 latest updates and enduring appeal.
In the official polls, Himmel the hero demonstrated his unshakable popularity, clinching first place in both the 1st and 2nd contests – truly the “eternal hero” in fans’ eyes. The 2nd poll brought surprises, most notably Aura the Guillotine vaulting to 2nd place, as well as the strong showing of characters like Fern, Übel, and Lawine – the new generation and standout arc-specific characters made their presence known. Frieren herself landing at 5th was a talking point, but as we discussed, that outcome might simply reflect how Frieren’s story lets many characters shine. In fact, the breadth of characters loved by fans – from main protagonists like Frieren and Fern, to companions like Stark and Sein, to villains like Aura and even gag entries like the Mimic or the Hero of the South – speaks volumes about the series’ depth and its fans’ broad-minded affection.
Through our character-by-character spotlight, we revisited what makes each of them special: the long-lived elf’s loneliness and growth, the hero’s legacy, the apprentices’ coming-of-age, the villains’ magnetic terror, and the bittersweet weight of time that all these characters carry. We also touched on how the anime’s second season is bringing these elements to life with stunning production and acting, making the story even more accessible and emotionally powerful to a global audience. Frieren has this unique ability to hit you with epic fantasy excitement one moment and quiet reflection the next, and its characters embody that balance.
One could say that in Frieren, every character – big or small – has their own story and fans rooting for them. This is why, in popularity polls, the votes spread out and even a treasure chest monster can rank highly! It’s quite endearing and fitting for a series that often finds meaning in the little moments and side journeys. As a result, discussing “who’s your favorite” becomes a celebration of the entire cast and leads to fond recollections of different chapters and arcs.
So whether your personal favorite is Himmel, Frieren, Fern, Stark, or perhaps someone like Flamme or even the Mimic, it’s clear that Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End offers a rich ensemble to love. And as the story marches forward, we’ll surely meet more characters who will capture our hearts. The polls and rankings are a fun way to gauge the fandom’s pulse, but at the end of the day, what matters is how each character adds to this beautiful tapestry of a tale about life, time, and what comes after the “journey’s end.”
Take a moment to think about your own favorite character in Frieren. What do they mean to you? Perhaps re-reading or re-watching their key scenes will reveal something new, or the next time they appear in the story, you’ll appreciate them even more. This series has a way of making us reflect – on friendships, on goodbyes, on living in the present – all through the eyes of its characters.Thank you for reading our complete guide to Frieren’s character popularity rankings (2026 Edition) and for joining us in celebrating this wonderful series. We hope it helped you rediscover some of the magic that made you fall in love with Frieren’s world in the first place. Let’s continue to follow Frieren’s journey and cheer on all the characters – old and new – as they carve out their legends. See you next “Frieren Friday,” and happy adventuring in the world of Frieren!
