The success of Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 has been overshadowed by the heartbreak of fans as some beloved characters were killed in the Shibuya Incident arc. The shocking murder of Nobara Kugisaki by Mahito in episode 19 left anime-only viewers reeling. However, in episode 20, Arata Nitta offered a glimmer of hope to Yuji Itadori and fans, sparking speculation about Nobara's fate and a possible comeback in the series. Manga readers already know the answer.
Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers for Jujutsu Kaisen season 2.
Explaining the role of Arata Nitta in Nobara Kugisaki's death in Jujutsu Kaisen season 2
The second season of Jujutsu Kaisen has delivered numerous major moments, but for those who only watch the anime, the death of Nobara Kugisaki at the hands of Mahito in episode 19 likely came as a huge shock. As a key member of the main cast, it seemed like she was going to be a long-term character, only for the villain to brutally end her life in front of Yuji Itadori, adding to his already significant trauma.
Fans were initially hopeful for Nobara's return when Aratta Nitta, a member of the Jujutsu society, took her body and warned Yuji not to expect her to still be alive. However, it has become apparent that Aratta did not revive Nobara, and as of now, she has not reappeared in the manga since her encounter with Mahito. Given the direction of the story since Nobara's death, it would be inconsistent and not in line with the author's style to bring her back to life. This would feel like a cheap and uncharacteristic plot twist.
The use of Nobara's character
Nobara saying goodbye to Yuji in Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 episode 19 (Image via MAPPA)
Nobara's unexpected death in Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 episode 19 came as a major shock to anime-only viewers and prompted a range of reactions in the fandom. Questions have arisen about whether her character was fully utilized and whether the decision to kill her off was the right one by Akutami.
Nobara was a key member of the main cast, featuring alongside protagonist Yuji Itadori, Satoru Gojo, and Megumi Fushiguro. Her unexpected demise in the series' first major arc left many fans feeling that her potential role in the story was cut short, despite the added stakes it brought to the plot and the message of no one being truly safe.
Final thoughts
Nobara brought a breath of fresh air to shonen with her strong and independent character. Her focus on her abilities rather than romance, along with her unique fighting style, made her a fan favorite. It's truly frustrating for fans to accept her untimely death.
Final thoughts
Jujutsu Kaisen season 2 episode 20 may have given anime-only viewers hope of Nobara's return through Aratta Nitta's words, but it's best not to cling to that possibility. As of now, there's no indication that she will be making a comeback in the series.
Editor's P/S
As a passionate fan of Jujutsu Kaisen, I was deeply affected by the tragic fate of Nobara Kugisaki in season 2. Her sudden and brutal death at the hands of Mahito left me in shock and disbelief. Nobara was a strong, independent, and charismatic character who brought a unique perspective to the series. Her focus on her abilities rather than romance, along with her fierce fighting style, made her a fan favorite. It's truly frustrating to accept her untimely demise, and I can't help but feel that her potential role in the story was cut short.
While I understand that the death of a beloved character can add stakes to the plot and convey the message that no one is truly safe, I can't help but feel a sense of loss and disappointment. Nobara's death has left a void in the series that I don't think can be easily filled. I can only hope that the author has a plan to do justice to her character and give her the send-off she deserves.