Mei Mei stands out among the diverse characters in Jujutsu Kaisen due to her controversial nature. While characters like Ryomen Sukuna and Mahito are intentionally portrayed as villains with their heinous acts, Mei Mei's case is unique. She exhibits selfish and repugnant traits that have earned her the title of one of the most detested characters in the entire series.
Now that the Shibuya Incident arc, covered by the MAPPA adaptation of Jujutsu Kaisen, is unfolding, Mei Mei's reasons for being despised are gradually revealed to viewers who are solely familiar with the anime. It could even be argued that she is the most divisive character within the entire franchise, taking all factors into account.
Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers for Jujutsu Kaisen.
Mei Mei from Jujutsu Kaisen and why she is so hated
Expand Tweet
The character of Mei Mei from Jujutsu Kaisen exemplifies the deep-rooted corruption within the Jujutsu society depicted in the series. This is notably evident throughout various scenes in the Shibuya Incident arc, where Mei Mei stands out prominently.
The author, Gege Akutami, fails to capitalize on the intriguing portrayal of Mei Mei following the notorious Malaysia scene in the arc. Initially depicted as a money-driven sorcerer, Mei Mei's character development remains stagnant throughout the series. However, the Shibuya Incident arc sheds further light on her deceitful tendencies.
This is evident in the introduction of Ui Ui, the younger brother who displays immense loyalty towards his older sister. He even goes as far as offering himself as bait in battle, enabling her to gain an advantage over her adversaries.
While their bond was initially peculiar, Akutami had further surprises in store for these siblings as the storyline unfolded in the arc.
The Malaysia scene
Expand Tweet
This is the main reason why many Jujutsu Kaisen fans take issue with Mei Mei. In the Shibuya Incident arc, when Nanami Kento is killed by Mahito, it is revealed that Mei Mei had left the country and was staying in a hotel in Malaysia. However, a controversial scene follows where Mei Mei is seen getting into bed with her brother, strongly implying incestuous behavior.
There has been significant online discussion about this scene, with numerous fans expressing their dissatisfaction and disliking Mei Mei for not only engaging in inappropriate actions with her brother but also for leaving Shibuya while other sorcerers were being murdered.
Some fans contend that this scene was superfluous, asserting that merely mentioning her escape would suffice to illustrate her wickedness.
Conversely, others argue that it is vital to emphasize the unjust nature of the Jujutsu society, where virtuous individuals like Nanami perish while malevolent characters like Mei Mei thrive.
Nevertheless, Mei Mei's status as one of the most detested characters in the entire Jujutsu Kaisen series remains unquestionable. Additionally, Gege Akutami's lack of development for her character further emphasizes this sentiment, possibly in response to fan perception, though this remains a subject of discussion.
Final thoughts
Expand Tweet
Mei Mei from Jujutsu Kaisen stands out as one of the most despised characters in anime due to a multitude of reasons. From her relentless greed to her cowardly retreat during a crucial battle, and not to mention her disturbing mistreatment and manipulation of her younger brother, it is only natural that the strong negative reactions towards her are completely warranted.