Series & First Appearance
Kittan Bachika is a character from the anime series Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann, created by Gainax. He makes his first appearance in Episode 4, titled "Leaving the Underground." The show aired from April to September 2007 and is known for its dynamic art style and epic storytelling.
Profile at a Glance
Kittan is typically portrayed in his mid-20s, standing as a prominent protagonist in the series and serving as the leader of the Black Siblings. He affiliates himself with the Gurren Brigade, fighting valiantly against oppressive forces. Kittan pilots the "King Kittan," a formidable Ganman, showcasing his combat prowess in significant battles.
Personality & Motivations
Kittan embodies a wide array of personality traits, characterized by bravery, eccentricity, and an often obnoxious demeanor. He possesses an unwavering sense of loyalty towards his comrades, willing to go to great lengths to ensure their safety. His catchphrase, "Don’t worry, I’ve got this!" encapsulates his confident and sometimes brash attitude. Kittan also carries a deep motivation to protect his village and uplift its citizens from despair.
Abilities / Powers
As a Spiral Being, Kittan exhibits enhanced physical abilities and reflexes typical of advanced Ganman pilots. His key asset, the King Kittan, stands out for its impressive firepower and agility on the battlefield. He often employs a mix of strategic prowess and brute strength in combat. However, one limitation of Kittan’s abilities is his reliance on the King Kittan, which can potentially affect his combat effectiveness if the mech is incapacitated.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Throughout Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann, Kittan experiences several pivotal moments that shape his development. After joining the Gurren Brigade, he quickly establishes himself as a key fighter against the Anti-Spirals, developing bonds with characters like Kamina and Simon. His growth culminates in a significant sacrifice during the battle against the Anti-Spirals, demonstrating his willingness to put the greater good before himself and solidifying his legacy as a hero.
Notable Relationships
Kittan’s relationships with other characters underscore his importance in the series. His bonds with the members of the Gurren Brigade, particularly Kamina and Yoko Littner, are critical to his character development. The dynamic he shares with Simon, who assumes a leadership role later in the series, showcases both mentorship and rivalry, highlighting Kittan’s supportive nature despite his brashness.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Kittan’s most memorable moments occurs in Episode 12 ("The Light in the Dark"), where he utters the iconic lines: "In order to protect everyone, there’s nothing I won’t do." This moment resonates deeply with fans, emphasizing the character’s complex nature as both a warrior and protector. Another impactful scene arises during his climactic battle against the Anti-Spirals, illustrating his growth and ultimate sacrifice, which leaves a lasting impression on the narrative and fans alike.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Kittan’s character design reflects the stylistic choices typical of Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann, marked by exaggerated features and dynamic expressions. Voiced by Tomokazu Sugita in Japanese and voiced by Matthew Mercer in English, Kittan has garnered a significant fanbase, ranking high in popularity polls (with 960 member favorites noted). His design and character traits often draw comparisons to the archetypal "brash yet brave" hero found in many anime series, making him a relatable figure for the audience.
Kittan Bachika’s role in Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann encapsulates the spirit of resilience and camaraderie, solidifying his place as a beloved character in the anime community.
