Series & First Appearance
Leone is a prominent character from the anime and manga series Akame ga Kill!, created by Takahiro and illustrated by Tetsuya Tashiro. She first appears in Chapter 1 of the manga, which began serialization in 2010, and makes her anime debut in Episode 1, airing in July 2014.
Profile at a Glance
Leone appears to be in her 20s, standing at 170 cm (5’7") tall, and is a vital member of the Night Raid, an assassination group fighting against a corrupt empire. As a wielder of the Teigu known as Lionelle, she exhibits remarkable abilities that contribute to her role in the team and the ongoing struggle for justice.
Personality & Motivations
Leone possesses a cheerful and relaxed demeanor, often displaying a carefree attitude that manifests in unorthodox behaviors, such as her lack of ladylike manners and humorous interactions with her teammates, notably shoving Tatsumi into her breasts or putting her feet on the table. She adopts a big sister role, referring to herself as "onee-san" and looking after younger members of Night Raid. Despite her playful nature, Leone is fiercely committed to fighting against injustice, showing a vindictive side when confronting those who commit atrocities. Her primary motivation lies in dismantling the oppressive regime of the empire.
Abilities / Powers
Leone’s combat style is enhanced by her Teigu, Lionelle, which grants her abilities akin to those of a lion, such as enhanced strength, speed, agility, and the capability to heal from injuries. This Teigu allows her to tap into powerful instincts and feral combat techniques during battle. Additionally, Leone has exceptional skills in information gathering and maintains calm judgment during crucial moments. However, her abilities were significantly hindered during the climax of the series when she lost her Teigu and was severely wounded. Despite this, her resilience and will to fight shone through until her final moments.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Throughout the series, Leone plays a pivotal role in several story arcs regarding anti-imperial sentiments. Initially, her character serves to introduce Tatsumi to Night Raid’s ideals and struggles. As the series progresses, her fierce loyalty and sense of justice become more pronounced, particularly in her conflicts against major antagonists like the Prime Minister. In the last episode, Leone is stripped of her powers and suffers mortal wounds, yet her resolve leads her to eliminate the Prime Minister, marking a significant turning point and concluding her arc on a note of vindication and sacrifice.
Notable Relationships
Leone shares a close bond with Tatsumi, often mentoring him and acting as a protective figure, emphasizing her big sister persona. She is also bound to her fellow Night Raid members, including Akame and Mine, demonstrating deep camaraderie and support within the team. Her relationships are integral to the emotional depth of her character and the overall narrative, showcasing themes of love, loss, and sacrifice.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Leone’s iconic moments occurs in Episode 18, where she reflects on her commitment to fighting against tyranny, encapsulating her motivations. Another memorable scene occurs during her final confrontation with the Prime Minister, where Leone defiantly claims, “I won’t let you escape!” This moment resonates with fans, highlighting her bravery and commitment to justice as she faced insurmountable odds.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Leone’s character design was influenced by both feline and human traits, embodying the wild nature of a lion while maintaining a strikingly human appearance. In terms of voice acting, she is voiced by Miyuki Sawashiro in the Japanese version and Brittany Krall in the English dub, both of whom brought depth to her playful yet fierce nature. Leone enjoys notable popularity among fans, with over 1,989 favorites, reflecting her status as a beloved character. The anime’s exploration of themes of justice, camaraderie, and resistance against oppression resonates broadly, further solidifying her place in anime culture.
Leone stands out not just for her unique blend of whimsical charm and ferocity but also for her complex character arc within the morally ambiguous world of Akame ga Kill! Her journey is a testament to the fight against injustice, making her a memorable figure in the realm of anime.
