Akira Fudo | |
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Devilman character | |
![]() Akira Fudo in his human form, by Go Nagai | |
First appearance | Devilman vol. 1: "Devil's Awakening" (1972) |
Created by | Go Nagai |
Voiced by (Japanese) |
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Voiced by (English) |
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Portrayed by | Hisato Izaki (2004 film) |
In-universe information | |
Alias | Devilman |
Species | Human Devilman |
Gender | Male |
Occupation | Student |
Nationality | Japanese |
Abilities |
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Akira Fudo (Japanese: 不動明, Hepburn: Fudō Akira) is a fictional character and the main protagonist of the Devilman manga series created by Go Nagai. A shy teenager living in Japan while his parents work abroad, Akira absorbs the powers of the devil Amon thanks to his friend Ryo Asuka. Then as the self-proclaimed title character Devilman (デビルマン, Debiruman), Akira starts fighting numerous enemies hidden in the world. The character also appears in the multiple anime adaptations of the series, though his role differs based on media. The spin-off Amon: The Darkside of the Devilman tells an alternate story of when Akira's body is taken over by Amon after losing his humanity.
Akira was created by Nagai following Toei Animation's approach of creating anti-heroes similar to the recently-cancelled manga Demon Lord Dante. Nagai aimed in his take of the Devilman to portray the suffering of a demon, though focused more on the chaos of wars during the climax. Devilman Crybaby director Masaaki Yuasa was inspired to show a kinder take on Akira, and his intimate relationship between Ryo and Miki Makimura as a love triangle based on the impact the first reading Nagai's manga had on the director. Numerous voice actors have provided their work on Akira across the multiple animated versions of Devilman.
Critical response to Akira's characterization in the manga was mostly positive, although his original video animation persona was criticized for his relationship with the more antagonistic Ryo. His Devilman Crybaby persona was the subject of praise due to his more friendly, sensitive and caring side.