Hunter x Hunter is easily among the top anime adventures, and part of the fun comes from the heartwarming dynamic between the characters. At the center, we have Gon. On his quest to become a hunter, he found three friends: Kurapika, Leorio, and Killua. They were all equally interesting, and props to Yoshihiro Togashi for creating such compelling characters. Initially, the focus juggled between them.

However, as the story progressed, some characters got more screen time than others, especially Kurapika. I would call it Togashi playing favorites or being downright obsessed with him. It would not be as big a problem if he hadn’t forgotten one character who deserves more attention.

Togashi Plays Favorites in Hunter x Hunter 

A still from the Hunter Exam | Credits: Studio Madhouse

The journey started with Gon and as fun as it was following him, the entry of Kurapika and Leorio definitely added to the excitement. It wasn’t long before they were engaging in banter and willing to fight for each other. Killua’s introduction further amplified the enjoyment, as he was different from the other three. I remember struggling to choose a favorite from the four equally lovable characters. Yoshihiro Togashi somewhat solved that problem for me when he decided to direct his attention toward one character. 

Kurapika with his Kurta eyes activated in Hunter x Hunter anime | Credits: Studio Madhouse

This character was Kurapika. Everyone else was sidelined during the Yorknew City arc, and the story revolved around him. The calm and calculative Kurapika was desperate for revenge. His powers reached new heights, and his character was explored phenomenally. Beyond the tough exterior and the rash decisions, he still cared deeply for his friends. 

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Episodes went by without a mention of the other characters, not even Gon. Killua and Gon got their share of development in the following arcs and the focus does shift back to Kurapika. Although, the same can’t be said about Leorio. As a Leorio fangirl, all I can ask is: when will it be my boy’s turn? 

Here’s Why Leorio Should be Given More Screen Time 

Leorio | Credits: Studio Madhouse

Throughout the story, Leorio’s character has shone through in glimpses and tiny moments. At one glance, he seems quite foolish but his skill set as a doctor surprises us early on. While Killua and Gon have immense potential, Leorio is quite normal. However, he’s much kinder and his wit saves the day at times. Some moments that stood out to me were when Melody complimented Leorio before leaving with Kurapika or the time when he relayed the message to Killua and Gon.

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Even when Kurapika lost control and rushed to chase the spiders, Leorio desperately tried to catch up with him. He’s extremely endearing and fairly normal, compared to the others. However, every time he’s on screen, he provides a necessary relief from the tension. He understands his lack of power, and compensates for it in other ways. Seeing him match up with the others and eventually reaching the top feels like a personal win, simply because of how influential and impactful he is.

Leorio and Melody at the end of Yorknew City arc | Credits: Studio Madhouse

Despite having a lesser screen time, his presence and journey so far has been wonderful. At the pace the manga has been progressing, we might never get a full-fledged arc centered around him. That doesn’t dismiss the fact that he deserves it the most. After all, he’s the best boy with a golden heart that beats to soothe the souls of those around him.  

Hunter x Hunter is available for streaming on Crunchyroll. 
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