Bleach: 5 Impactful Deaths That Shook the Anime World Ranked

Bleach, with its popular manga and anime series along with a few light novel side stories, has solidified its position as one of the most beloved series, earning a spot in the shonen anime Big Three. The iconic characters like Ichigo Kurosaki and Rukia Kuchiki continue to be remembered even after the series has concluded.

Despite the presence of many characters who continue to influence the story of Bleach, there are unfortunate characters who did not survive to witness the series' conclusion. While their character arcs may have been cut short, their deaths had a profound impact that reverberated throughout the entire series.

Kaien Shiba

Left Rukia severely guilt-ridden and traumatized

Kaien Shiba introducing himself to Rukia in the Bleach anime - Left Rukia severely guilt-ridden and traumatized

Appears in: Bleach Episode 49; Chapter 136

Impaled by Rukia while fused with Metastacia

Kaien Shiba, unlike the other members of the Thirteenth Division who treated Rukia differently because of her noble status, held a special place in her heart. He was not only her swordplay trainer but also imparted his philosophy of hearts to her. In return, Rukia regarded Kaien highly and valued him as a true friend due to his kindness towards her.

Nemu Kurotsuchi

During the battle with the Shinigami-killing Hollow Metastacia, Kaien was unfortunately influenced by the Hollow, leading Rukia to make the difficult decision to kill him. Despite Kaien expressing his gratitude for her actions, Rukia was left shattered by the event. This deep sense of guilt and grief over Kaien's death ultimately drove Rukia to transfer all of her Shinigami powers to Ichigo when they first met.

Disobeys Mayuri for the first and only time

Nemu Kurotsuchi as she appears in Bleach Brave Souls - Disobeys Mayuri for the first and only time

Appears in: Bleach Episode TBA; Chapter 643

Cause: Annihilated by Pernidas' The Compulsory ability

Throughout the series, Nemu usually serves as the Twelfth Captain Mayuri's quiet and obedient lieutenant. However, during the Wandenreich's second invasion of Soul Society, Nemu decides to confront the Sternritter Pernidas Parnkgjas on her own instead of Mayuri. Despite initially gaining the upper hand against Pernidas, Nemu is ultimately killed when Pernidas uses The Compulsory to destroy her, leaving Mayuri in disbelief.

This marked the first and only instance in the series where Nemu defied Mayuri's orders. Following her tragic death, it is revealed that Mayuri had always considered Nemu nearly flawless, which contradicted his previous disdain for perfection mentioned during the Hueco Mundo arc. Upon realizing this, Mayuri swiftly defeats Pernidas and creates Nemuri Hachigo, who would eventually take Nemu's place as his new lieutenant.

Gin Ichimaru

Betrays Aizen for Rangiku's sake and reveals his knowledge of Kyoka Suigetsu's weakness

Gin Ichimaru Smiling At Ichigo With His Zanpakuto In Bleach - Betrays Aizen for Rangiku's sake and reveals his knowledge of Kyoka Suigetsu's weakness

Appears in: Bleach Episode 308; Chapter 416

Impaled by Aizen's Kyoka Suigetsu, Gin Ichimaru, the polite but sinister Captain of the Third Division, was one of the strongest Shinigami in the Gotei 13. It was only after the Soul Society arc that Gin, along with Aizen and Tosen, was exposed as a traitor who had orchestrated much of the chaos during the arc.

Gin's Betrayal in the Fake Karakura Town Arc

During the Fake Karakura Town arc, Gin shocks everyone by turning against Aizen, taking advantage of Kyoka Suigetsu's weakness and using his own Bankai to attack him. Despite ultimately losing his life in the process, Gin's betrayal was motivated by his desire to seek revenge for Rangiku, the one person in the series he truly cared for.

Failed to rectify his mistake of not killing Yhwach

genryusai-yamamoto-1 - Failed to rectify his mistake of not killing Yhwach - Genryusai Shigekuni Yamamoto

Appears in: Bleach Episode 373; Chapter 511

Cause: Bifurcated and annihilated by Yhwach

Yamamoto was always rightfully acknowledged as the strongest Shinigami in Soul Society, despite many others vying for the title in Bleach. As the founder of the Gotei 13, he showcased his immense battle prowess by overpowering tough opponents like Ayon, Wonderweiss, and even Aizen.

However, Yamamoto's strength was no match for the Wandenreich leader Yhwach, who not only stole his Bankai but also disintegrated his body. This complete defeat not only highlighted Yamamoto's mistake of sparing Yhwach but also solidified the gap between the Wandenreich and the Seireitei.

Retsu Unohana

Succeeded in teaching Kenpachi the way of the sword

Unohana - Succeeded in teaching Kenpachi the way of the sword - Retsu Unohana

Appears in: Bleach Episode 376; Chapter 572

Unohana, known for her role as a primary healer in Bleach, appeared to be an unlikely candidate for enjoying combat and bloodshed. This perception changed during the Thousand-Year Blood War arc when it was revealed that she was actually the first Kenpachi. She had taught herself healing techniques as a way to prolong her enjoyment of battle indefinitely. Unfortunately, her life was ended by Kenpachi Zaraki after a lengthy duel.

Unohana initially felt apprehensive when assigned to teach Kenpachi proper swordplay. She admitted to inadvertently instilling in him the habit of suppressing his power to enhance his enjoyment of combat.

Upon her passing, Unohana found comfort in Kenpachi's development as a warrior. She was also pleased to have mentored a warrior who surpassed her own strength.

Unskippable Filler Episodes In Bleach

Editor's P/S:

The article offers a poignant tribute to several beloved Bleach characters who met tragic ends. Each character's death left an indelible mark on the series, shaping its trajectory and the lives of the remaining characters.

Kaien Shiba's death left Rukia haunted by guilt and trauma, ultimately leading her to transfer her powers to Ichigo. Nemu Kurotsuchi's defiance of Mayuri and her sacrifice to protect the Soul Society revealed the depth of her character and the complexity of her relationship with her captain. Gin Ichimaru's betrayal and subsequent death showcased his love for Rangiku and his willingness to sacrifice himself for her. Yamamoto's defeat at the hands of Yhwach highlighted the overwhelming power of the Wandenreich and the consequences of underestimating one's opponent. Finally, Retsu Unohana's duel with Kenpachi Zaraki provided a profound exploration of the nature of combat and the bond between mentor and student. Through these characters, Bleach explores themes of loss, sacrifice, redemption, and the enduring power of human connection.