Detective Conan, also known as Case Closed, has been one of the most beloved anime and manga series since its debut in 1994. With its intricate plots, thrilling mysteries, and unforgettable characters, it has captured the hearts of fans around the world. The series, created by Gosho Aoyama, follows the adventures of a teenage detective, Shinichi Kudo, who is transformed into a child after being poisoned. Now under the alias of Conan Edogawa, he continues to solve complex cases while searching for the mysterious organization responsible for his predicament.
Over the years, Detective Conan has introduced numerous characters, each with their unique traits and stories. While all characters have their fanbases, some stand out more than others. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top 7 most popular characters in Detective Conan, exploring their appeal and what makes them unforgettable.
Shinichi Kudo / Conan Edogawa
Shinichi Kudo, the original protagonist of the series, is a brilliant teenage detective known for his exceptional intellect and sharp observation skills. His transformation into the child detective Conan Edogawa is a pivotal part of the story. Despite his small stature, Conan continues to solve high-profile cases, relying on his sharp mind and the support of his friends.
Shinichi’s charm lies not only in his intelligence but also in his unwavering sense of justice and his love for Ran Mouri, a fellow high school student. His dedication to uncovering the secrets behind the Black Organization, which poisoned him, makes him a heroic figure in the series. Fans love his determination and clever tactics in solving even the most challenging mysteries.
Ran Mouri
Ran Mouri is one of the most beloved characters in Detective Conan, and for good reason. As the childhood friend and love interest of Shinichi Kudo, Ran’s role in the story is pivotal. She is strong, independent, and caring, often playing the role of a protector for her friends and family.
Ran’s emotional depth and complexity make her a fan favorite. She is often seen worrying about Shinichi’s safety, especially as he disappears under the guise of Conan. Despite this, she remains strong and continues to support Conan and her father, Kogoro Mouri. Her unwavering loyalty and the deep bond she shares with Shinichi are central to her popularity.
Kaito Kuroba / Kid the Phantom Thief
Kaito Kuroba, also known as Kid the Phantom Thief, is a charismatic character who adds a touch of flair and excitement to the series. Unlike most characters in Detective Conan, Kaito is not a detective but a thief with a strong moral code. As Kid, he is known for stealing valuable jewels while evading the police and Conan’s team.
Despite his life of crime, Kaito is an honorable thief who often seeks to right wrongs and expose corruption. His relationship with Conan is complex, as he sometimes acts as an adversary but also demonstrates a certain level of respect for Conan’s intelligence. Kaito’s mischievous personality, impressive skills, and sense of humor make him one of the most iconic and popular characters in the Detective Conan universe.
Kogoro Mouri
Kogoro Mouri, Ran’s father, is a former detective who now works as a private investigator, although he is often portrayed as more of a comic relief character. While Kogoro’s skills have dulled with age, he still plays an important role in the series, often solving cases with Conan’s help, albeit unknowingly.
His loud and brash personality adds humor to the series, but beneath the surface, Kogoro is a deeply caring father. His relationship with Conan is often comedic, with Conan using Kogoro as a puppet to solve cases, but it also highlights the deep respect and friendship between them. Kogoro’s transformation from a bumbling investigator to a more serious and protective figure adds layers to his character, making him a fan favorite.
Heiji Hattori
Heiji Hattori is another detective in the series who is often regarded as one of the most popular characters in Detective Conan. He is a high school detective from Osaka, and his rivalry and friendship with Shinichi Kudo are some of the most engaging dynamics in the series. Heiji is known for his intelligence, his ability to solve cases quickly, and his sharp wit.
Despite his rivalry with Shinichi, Heiji has a deep admiration for him, and their occasional collaboration adds a fun layer to the story. His playful personality, quick thinking, and ability to maintain a cool head under pressure have earned him a place among the most popular characters in Detective Conan. Heiji’s humorous banter with Conan and his ever-present teasing of the main characters are some of the highlights of the series.
Ai Haibara
Ai Haibara is one of the most complex and intriguing characters in Detective Conan. Once a member of the Black Organization, Ai (whose real name is Shiho Miyano) is a former researcher for the organization who turns on them after realizing the evil nature of their work. She then becomes a key ally to Conan, and her knowledge of the organization provides critical information to uncover their secrets.
Ai’s intelligence, emotional depth, and tragic backstory make her a standout character. She is often seen as a more mature, reserved character compared to the others. Her quiet demeanor and occasional sarcasm make her interactions with Conan and the rest of the group fascinating. Her evolving friendship with Conan and the other characters adds an emotional layer to the series, making her one of the most well-loved characters by fans.
Subaru Okiya
Subaru Okiya is a mysterious character who plays a crucial role in the later arcs of Detective Conan. Initially introduced as a strange man living in the Mouri household, Subaru’s true identity is eventually revealed, and it is linked to some of the darker elements of the series. His calm, composed demeanor and complex background make him a compelling character.
Subaru’s connection to the Black Organization and his involvement with Conan in unraveling the organization’s secrets make him a key figure in the overarching plot. His enigmatic personality and the mystery surrounding his past have made him a fan favorite, adding depth and intrigue to the story.
Detective Conan has introduced a wide array of characters over the years, and these seven are among the most beloved by fans. Whether it’s the brilliant detective Conan, the fiercely loyal Ran, or the complex Ai Haibara, each character brings something unique to the table. Their personalities, relationships, and growth throughout the series make Detective Conan a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences around the world.
As the story progresses, these characters continue to evolve, deepening the connections with their fans. From thrilling mysteries to emotional moments, the characters of Detective Conan make the series not just about solving crimes, but about the relationships that define them.