Leorio is a beloved character in the shonen anime Hunter x Hunter, known for his complexity and ability to provide entertainment. While he may be seen as a source of comic relief or underestimated compared to his companions, Leorio's character possesses true depth. Even in his goofier moments, fans have come to appreciate his three-dimensional nature.
Despite often being used for comedic purposes, Leorio is a multifaceted character who exhibits great emotional awareness and a deep concern for his friends. His ultimate goal of helping others is a driving force in his life. Some of his most memorable and defining moments occur throughout the entire Hunter x Hunter series, including both the 1999 and 2011 versions, as well as in the two Hunter x Hunter films. These moments beautifully showcase the depth of Leorio's character.
10 Leorio Punches Ging
9 Melody Tells Leorio He Has the Most Pleasant Heartbeat
This moment in Hunter x Hunter is an immense one, particularly for Leorio fans. It's evident that Leorio deeply cares for Gon and is understandably distressed by his condition in the hospital. Therefore, it is understandable that he feels anger towards Gon's biological father. It's been a long search for Gon to find Ging, yet his father doesn't even visit him while he's unwell. Leorio, who always prioritizes his friends and genuinely cares for them, reacts unfavorably to Ging's indifferent responses when questioned. Leorio's act of punching Ging not only showcases his affection for his friends but also reveals how deeply upset the entire situation makes him. Although the punch was undoubtedly impulsive, it earns him a significant amount of respect from both the characters in the series and the fans.
The interaction between Leorio and Melody captures a heartwarming moment that provides valuable insight into Leorio's character. It is evident that both Melody and Leorio deeply care about their mutual friend, Kurapika. Throughout the series, glimpses into Leorio's concern for Kurapika unveil the intensity of their bond. In this particular scene, Melody astutely remarks that Leorio possesses the most soothing heartbeat in the city, further emphasizing his compassionate nature. Additionally, Melody suggests that Leorio would excel as a teacher or doctor, affirming his altruistic aspirations and unwavering desire to assist others.
8 The Zoldyck Gate Proves Leorio's Strength
This particular scene, although present in the manga, is absent from the 2011 version of the anime. In the original anime, while undergoing training at the Zoldyck's to unlock the Testing Gate, Kurapika, Gon, and Leorio manage to open the first door. However, only Leorio succeeds in opening the gate's second door, which has a weight of 8 tons. This, alongside Killua's ability to open up to the fifth door, suggests that Leorio possesses the greatest physical strength among the group members.
7 Leorio Reveals His True Goal
At the start of Hunter x Hunter, Leorio expresses his desire to become a Hunter in order to attain wealth, although later on, it is revealed that his motivations run deeper. In the initial phase of the exam in the 1999 anime, Leorio becomes exposed to the hallucinogenic properties of a dangerous plant. These properties compel him to confront the manifestations of his past trauma and the loss of a childhood friend.
In the 2011 version of the anime, viewers are treated to a glimpse of Leorio's past, where he is shown as a young boy. During this time, his friend also falls ill, providing valuable insight into Leorio's underlying motivations for pursuing the path of a Hunter. It becomes evident that, above all else, Leorio's driving force is his desire to prevent others from enduring the same suffering that he and his friend experienced. This particular scene serves as yet another testament to the complexity of Leorio's character, highlighting his distinct and ultimately heartbreaking reasons for choosing to become a Hunter.
6 Leorio Helps the Kiriko Family
Both versions of the anime emphasize Leorio's commendable treatment of the wounded man during the Kiriko incident. Moreover, the man expresses gratitude for Leorio's continuous reassurance regarding his wife, which deeply touches him. Leorio's commitment to acquiring medical knowledge and his compassionate nature are ultimately what enable him to participate in the Hunter Exam. In the 1999 version of the anime, Leorio's perceptiveness leads him to discover that one of the Kiriko's wounds is artificial and that the Kiriko bears a needle mark, indicating that he is likely the man Leorio had initially treated.
5 Leorio Stands Up to Hisoka
4 Leorio's Reaction to the Hunter Exam's Final Round
Hisoka's terrifying presence is quickly established during the Hunter Exam. However, despite the odds against him, Leorio refuses to back down and courageously confronts Hisoka. Throughout the series, there are numerous instances that reveal Leorio's bravery and pride. Although he fails to land a hit on Hisoka, his actions prevent Hisoka from instantly eliminating him, as he had done with many other opponents moments before. While some may consider Leorio's courage in the face of overwhelming odds to be senseless, it truly reflects his determination and stands out as one of his many admirable qualities.During the Final Phase of the Hunter Exam, the remaining candidates are pitted against each other in intense one-on-one combat. Although Leorio is not given an opportunity to fight, viewers witness his numerous reactions to his friends on the battlefield, which serves to further highlight the immense significance they hold in his life. As someone who genuinely cherishes the relationships he forms, Leorio experiences frequent distress throughout the Final Phase as he witnesses the hardships his friends endure.
When Hanzo is overpowering Gon, Leorio initially attempts to intervene but stops once he realizes that his involvement could result in Gon's disqualification. Nevertheless, Leorio's actions during this phase of the Hunter Exam reflect positively on his character. He selflessly offers to take Gon's place, encourages Kurapika to give up against Hisoka due to his formidable abilities, and tries to interject when Illumi claims that Killua and Gon could never be friends. Leorio clearly cannot bear to see his friends suffering and demonstrates a willingness to exert his utmost power to prevent it.
3 Leorio Sticks Around for Kurapika
During the Abandoned Warship Arc, a scene unfolds where Leorio, compelled by concern, secretly trails a reticent Kurapika from their shared hotel room. Sensing Leorio's presence, Kurapika confesses his worry and reluctantly offers to leave, refraining from interfering in Kurapika's affairs. However, unintentionally, Kurapika unknowingly asks Leorio to stay, leading to a heartfelt moment between them. Although Leorio was prepared to step aside if Kurapika desired, their encounter fosters a deeper connection between them. This poignant episode serves as a testament to Leorio's empathy and exemplifies a subdued instance amidst the series.
2 Leorio Gives Kurapika Words of Encouragement
Leorio's presence in Hunter x Hunter: The Last Mission is fleeting, yet its impact is significant. From assisting Kurapika in his battle against Shura, to offering reassurance that their paths differ, and providing unwavering support when Kurapika is injured, every moment with Leorio holds weight. His encouraging words, which Kurapika evidently clings onto amidst his internal turmoil, demonstrate their potential influence in stabilizing Kurapika. This assumption arises as Kurapika himself mentions them when questioned by Killua about Leorio's contribution to the overarching situation. Leorio appears flustered by Kurapika overhearing him and swiftly changes the subject, underscoring the unquestionable significance of his words. The fact that Kurapika treasures them underscores the mutual appreciation they share for one another.
1 Leorio Tells Kurapika to Live in the Present
Once again, Hunter x Hunter: Phantom Rouge is filled with numerous impactful moments featuring Leorio. However, one particular instance stands out when he valiantly defends Kurapika during his intense battle against the puppet Pairo, despite sustaining injuries himself. When Kurapika finds himself wavering in his fight, it is Leorio who offers guidance, urging him to embrace the present moment and accept the loss of his friend. Leorio's empathy stems from his own past experiences with a childhood companion. This scene brilliantly showcases Leorio's emotional maturity and highlights the challenges he has faced. He not only grows from these trials but also utilizes his learned wisdom to aid others, demonstrating his truly selfless nature and serving as the heart of the group.
Leorio unquestionably adds a great deal of enjoyment and humor to the Hunter x Hunter series. Nevertheless, fans acknowledge that he is a crucial and complex character within the main ensemble, driven by meaningful motivations. His role is pivotal in grounding the group, and his on-screen moments exemplify his indispensable contribution to his friends and the significance they hold in his life. Leorio's presence infuses Hunter x Hunter with genuine emotion and manages to bring smiles not only to the faces of fans but also to those of his closest companions.