Series & First Appearance
Hime Onizuka, also known as Himeko, is a character from the comedic anime and manga series SKET Dance, created by Kenta Shinohara. She made her debut in Chapter 1 of the manga, which was first serialized in 2007, and subsequently appeared in the anime adaptation that premiered in 2011.
Profile at a Glance
Hime Onizuka is a 17-year-old high school student affiliated with Kaimei High School, specifically in Classes 2-C and later 3-C. She plays the role of a protagonist and is recognized as the brawn of the Sket Dan, a club dedicated to helping fellow students with various problems. Himeko is noted for her signature fighting abilities, particularly using hockey sticks as her weapons, which include names like Valkyrie, Cyclone, and Kunpuumaru.
Personality & Motivations
Himeko’s personality is a blend of toughness and tenderness. Often viewed as a "yankee girl," she showcases a fierce side, embodying strength and assertiveness while also having a soft spot for cute things, which makes her multifaceted and relatable. Her motivations largely revolve around her commitment to the Sket Dan and her desire to support her friends, particularly in overcoming school-related issues. A notable quirk of Himeko is her dislike of ghosts, which often serves as a comedic element in various story arcs.
Abilities / Powers
Himeko is characterized by her physical prowess and combat skills, making her an essential asset in confrontations and challenges faced by the Sket Dan. With her proficiency in using hockey sticks, she combines athleticism with an aggressive fighting style. Over time, while her techniques and skill remain impressive, the series portrays her growth from a more volatile fighter during her "Legendary Yankee Onihime" days to a more restrained and focused individual dedicated to her group. Despite her formidable skills, Himeko’s brash nature sometimes lands her in humorous predicaments, showcasing her limitations in social situations.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Himeko’s character development is prominent throughout SKET Dance, particularly as the series explores her past as the "Legendary Yankee Onihime," a period defined by societal fear and her infamous reputation. As the story unfolds, Himeko learns to balance her rough exterior with a deeper understanding of empathy, revealing her vulnerabilities and leading to stronger bonds with her teammates. Key story arcs, such as her interactions with both friends and rivals, push her to confront her past while searching for personal growth, showcasing key episodes like "The Club’s Decisive Battle" (Episde 17) and "The Cost of Being a Hero" (Episode 22).
Notable Relationships
Himeko shares a close camaraderie with fellow Sket Dan members, namely Bossun and Gakuto, both of whom help ground her wild instincts and provide balance to her character. Additionally, her past connections with classmates often highlight how her reputation precedes her, complicating her interactions but ultimately enriching her narrative. Ryuunosuke, a fellow student, also serves as a source of tension and eventual growth for Himeko, illustrating her evolving relationships throughout the series.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Himeko’s iconic moments occurs during a conflict where her loyalty to the Sket Dan is tested, leading to her declaration, "I won’t let anyone hurt my friends!" (Episode 18), which resonates with fans for its impact and emotional sincerity. Additionally, her humorous dismissal of ghosts in various situations serves as both a comedic device and showcases her unique personality, endearing her further to the audience.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Himeko is a fan-favorite character, consistently ranking high in popularity polls among SKET Dance characters, with 778 member favorites noted in various anime communities. In the Japanese version, she is voiced by Kayo Yamato, while the English dub features the voice of Caitlin Glass, both capturing Himeko’s tough yet lovable nature. Notably, her character design emphasizes her punk influences and is complemented by her signature blonde hair and distinct fashion choices, contributing to her iconic aesthetic.
In summary, Hime Onizuka stands out in SKET Dance not just for her fighting prowess but also for her complexity as a character. Her journey from a feared yankee girl to a loyal friend illustrates her growth, making her a compelling figure in modern anime.
