Series & First Appearance
Death the Kid, created by Atsushi Ōkubo, first appears in "Soul Eater," which debuted in 2004 as a manga and was later adapted into an anime by Studio Bones in 2008. He is prominently featured from the first few chapters of the manga and early episodes of the anime.
Profile at a Glance
Death the Kid, often referred to simply as Kid, is a high school student at the Death Weapon Meister Academy (DWMA) and the son of Shinigami (Death), making him an immortal Shinigami. He is approximately 15 years old and acts as a protagonist, teaming up with his weapons, Liz and Patti Thompson. Kid is notable for his obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD), which manifests as a compulsive fixation on symmetry.
Personality & Motivations
Kid is characterized by his calm demeanor and serious personality, showcasing maturity well beyond his years. His unwavering desire for order and perfection drives much of his actions. Kid is often introspective and introverted, displaying a deep care for his friends, particularly in their well-being. Despite his obsession with symmetry, which can cause anxiety and irrational behavior, he maintains a strong sense of responsibility to uphold peace in the world, aspiring to follow in his father’s footsteps.
Abilities / Powers
As a Meister, Kid possesses the unique ability to wield two Demon Weapons—his partners, Liz and Patti, who transform into firearms. This partnership enables him to execute various attacks, including "Death Canon," which requires him to collect souls to feed his weapons. His combat style emphasizes precision and tactical awareness. Nevertheless, his extreme preoccupation with symmetry sometimes hinders his effectiveness in battle, especially when situations deviate from his perceived ideal of balance.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Throughout "Soul Eater," several pivotal story arcs serve to develop Kid’s character. The "Asura Arc" is significant; as he battles the madness-inducing villain Asura, Kid’s struggle with his OCPD becomes apparent. Kid’s descent into the "Madness of Order" reveals the vulnerabilities tied to his obsession. His continual effort to succeed as a Meister and gather souls culminates in an exploration of his motivations and fears, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding of friendship, the nature of madness, and personal strength.
Notable Relationships
Kid’s closest allies are his Demon Weapons, Liz and Patti Thompson, who provide an emotional anchor as they navigate challenges together. He has a complex rivalry with Black☆Star, a fellow student at DWMA, both vying for recognition but developing grudging respect over time. His father, Shinigami, influences much of Kid’s decisions and ideals, although Kid often grapples with the pressures of living up to his father’s legacy.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One signature moment occurs in episode 1 of the anime when Kid comes to a near-comic halt upon learning that things are not symmetrical, showcasing how his obsession can disrupt his focus. A memorable line illustrating his struggle with perfection can be found when he passionately asserts, "It can’t be seven! Say eight, damn it!" which reflects his deep-seated need for order and symmetry. These moments resonate with fans, highlighting both his strengths and personal battles.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Death the Kid ranks highly among fan favorites, with over 11,628 votes in popularity polls, reflecting his notable impact within the "Soul Eater" franchise. In both the original Japanese and English dubbed versions, Kid’s voice is portrayed with a sense of calm, but significant emotion, and he is voiced by Sōichirō Hoshi in the Japanese version and by Micah Solusod in the English dub. Kid’s character design stands out thanks to his unique hairstyle, featuring three white stripes that contribute to his struggles with symmetry. His favorite number is 8, reinforcing his obsession with symmetry and the disorder stemming from his unique upbringing as a Shinigami.
In conclusion, Death the Kid is a complex and multifaceted character whose journey through "Soul Eater" offers rich thematic depth surrounding the struggles between order and chaos, personal expectations, and the meaning of friendship. Through his growth, fans witness the interplay of humor and seriousness, establishing him as a memorable figure in the anime landscape.
