The release of the Undead Unluck anime has introduced fans to the series' protagonists: "Undead" Andy and "Unluck" Fuuko Izumo. Fans have been quick to notice the possibility of a romantic relationship between the two characters, but this plotline is driven by Andy's desire to achieve the ultimate death at the expense of Fuuko's Negator ability. This begs the question: does Andy truly love Fuuko, or is she simply a means to his ultimate goal?
Undead Unluck, a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Yoshifumi Tozuka, first appeared in Shueisha's Weekly Shōnen Jump magazine in January 2020. The manga's chapters have since been compiled into nine volumes, and an anime adaptation by TMS Entertainment and David Production has also been released.
Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers from the Undead Unluck manga.
Undead Unluck: Does Andy love Fuuko?
Fuuko and Andy, as depicted in the Undead Unluck anime (Image via David Production)
Andy harbors deep feelings for Fuuko Izumo. Possessing the "Undead" ability as a Negator, he is essentially immortal. His desire, after a long and weary existence, was to find a way to end his life. Despite his efforts, he found himself unable to do so. This led him to take notice of Fuuko Izumo and her unique "Unluck" powers.
Fuuko's Unluck powers resulted in a wave of misfortune for anyone she touched. This was tragically illustrated by the loss of her parents in a plane crash in the anime, showing that her misfortune increased significantly when she cared for the person she made contact with. Andy saw an opportunity to manipulate this, by deliberately making Fuuko fall in love with him in the hopes of unleashing a devastating wave of misfortune that could fulfill his desire for "Ultimate Death."
Fuuko Izumo as seen in Undead Unluck anime (Image via David Production)
Ever since then, Andy has been actively pursuing Fuuko's affection in Undead Unluck. His usual approach involves trying to fluster her and suggesting they sleep together, though she always rejects him, only making physical contact when necessary for their missions or to help Andy separate from his original personality, Victor.
Despite Fuuko's rejection, it becomes clear that she is developing feelings for Andy. In return, Andy demonstrates a strong protectiveness towards her, becoming fiercely angry when she is injured. His determination to keep her safe even leads him to consider removing the card in his head to release Victor, risking losing control over himself.
The image shows Andy and Fuuko as seen in the anime (Image via David Production)
As time passed during their various UMA adventures, Andy found himself gradually developing feelings for Fuuko. These feelings continued to grow until he eventually declared that his sole purpose was to safeguard her and everything she cherished.
Andy's romantic feelings for Fuuko finally come to light at the beginning of the Ragnarok arc in Undead Unluck manga chapter 94. He had previously thought that Fuuko needed to love him for her Unluck ability to work, but now that he has developed romantic feelings for her, he wants to deepen their connection by embarking on various adventures together around the world. This reveals that Andy truly loves Fuuko.
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z netizen, I find the relationship between Andy and Fuuko in Undead Unluck to be intriguing and complex. Andy's initial manipulation of Fuuko's feelings for his own selfish desires is morally questionable, but as the story progresses, it becomes evident that he genuinely develops feelings for her. This shift in his character adds depth to his personality and makes their relationship more compelling.
Fuuko's character is also well-developed, and her growth throughout the series is inspiring. Despite the misfortunes she brings to those around her, she remains kind and compassionate. Her determination to help Andy achieve his goal, even at the cost of her own happiness, showcases her strength and selflessness. Overall, I appreciate the way Undead Unluck explores the complexities of love and sacrifice, making it a captivating and thought-provoking series.