Series & First Appearance
Aladdin, a central character in the anime and manga series Magi: The Labyrinth of Magic, made his debut in Chapter 1 of the manga, which was created by Shinobu Ohtaka. The anime adaptation began airing in October 2012, produced by A-1 Pictures.
Profile at a Glance
Aladdin is a young Magi, appearing to be around 10-11 years old (12 in later arcs), and serves as one of the primary protagonists. He is affiliated with several key characters, including Alibaba Saluja and Morgiana, and is known for his remarkable magical abilities, particularly related to fire and heat. His primary weapon is his magic flute, which houses the Djinn Ugo.
Personality & Motivations
Aladdin possesses a cheerful and kind demeanor, which makes it easy for him to form friendships. He values camaraderie deeply, stemming from a mostly solitary upbringing with his guardian Ugo. His naivety about the world is balanced with a surprising depth of wisdom, allowing him to give insightful advice. Quirks include his penchant for food, particularly stealing it, and a mild perversion regarding physical attraction, often humorously portrayed in the series.
Abilities / Powers
Aladdin is highly skilled in Magi and magic use, capable of manipulating Magoi to invoke various spells. He is classified as a "Red Magician," specializing in fire-based magic. His powers evolve throughout the series; initially reliant on Ugo, he learns to harness multiple types of magic independently, eventually mastering the Wisdom of Solomon, which enhances his combat capabilities. However, his over-exertion can lead to debilitating fatigue, as seen in various battles.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Aladdin’s journey begins with his meeting of Alibaba and their joint ventures into dungeons. Key arcs include his training in Magnostadt, where he enhances his magical abilities, and the battle against Al-Thamen, which unveils his true potential and responsibilities as a Magi. His growth also encompasses a realization of his lineage as the son of King Solomon, leading to emotional conflicts about identity and duty.
Notable Relationships
Aladdin’s relationships significantly impact his character development. His bond with Alibaba Saluja is pivotal, as they support one another in battles and personal growth. Morgiana, another key ally, adds depth to Aladdin’s understanding of friendship and loyalty. His legacy as Solomon’s son creates tensions with antagonists like Judar and Hakuryuu Ren, adding layers to his narrative.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable moment occurs in Episode 12 when Aladdin uses his powers in a pivotal battle, showcasing the depth of his abilities and commitment to his friends. His line, "I want to see the world and connect with people," encapsulates his motivations and resonates with fans as a representation of youthful innocence pursuing greater understanding.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Aladdin is voiced by Yūichi Nakamura in the Japanese version, while the English dub features Matthew Mercer. His popularity is reflected in multiple Magi franchise polls, ranking among fan favorites (over 2,500 member favorites). The character is often praised for his design and growth throughout the series, capturing the complexities of youth, friendship, and responsibility.
Aladdin’s existence as a Magi in a complex world, along with his comedic tendencies and earnestness, makes him a beloved character in the anime community, embodying themes of adventure, friendship, and self-discovery.