Series & First Appearance
Graham Aker is a character from the anime series "Mobile Suit Gundam 00," created by Yoshiyuki Tomino and produced by Sunrise. He made his first appearance in Season 1, Episode 1, titled "Celestial Being," which aired in 2007.
Profile at a Glance
Graham Aker is a 34-year-old ace pilot affiliated with the Union, initially serving as a Captain in the Anti-Gundam Investigative Squad. Renowned for his exceptional flying skills and combat tenacity, he pilots a custom black Union Flag, capable of mid-flight transformation. As an antagonist to the Gundams, he proves to be a formidable opponent throughout the series.
Personality & Motivations
Graham is characterized by his unwavering confidence and ambition. A gritty and determined individual, he is driven by a desire for personal vindication and mastery over aerial combat, stemming from his difficult upbringing as an orphan. While he carries a dark cloud over his past due to the accidental death of a superior officer during a practice battle, he remains focused on proving his worth as a soldier rather than dwelling on rumors about his reputation. Notably, he often adopts the persona "Mister Bushido," emphasizing honor in battle.
Abilities / Powers
Graham Aker exhibits a plethora of skills as a pilot, showcasing exceptional reflexes, strategic thinking, and combat instinct. His standout ability is his proficiency with the Union Flag unit, allowing for mid-air transformations that enhance his combat effectiveness. Graham’s combat style is aggressive and assertive, focusing on exploiting his opponents’ weaknesses. However, his reliance on offensive tactics can sometimes lead him into riskier situations.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Graham’s character arc is heavily influenced by his past and his experiences in battles against the Gundams. Initially, he serves in the MSWΛD mobile suit team, quickly showcasing his skill and rising to the rank of Captain. His tragic backstory involves the accidental death of his superior—an event that haunts him throughout the series. As the narrative progresses, especially in Season 2, Graham’s personal vendetta against the Gundams deepens. The turning point comes with his adoption of the "Mister Bushido" persona, signifying his commitment to a more noble approach to combat. This evolution is particularly evident as he faces off against the Gundam pilots, where he aims to prove his worth and honor.
Notable Relationships
Graham maintains complex relationships with several key figures in the series. His rivalry with Setsuna F. Seiei, the main protagonist piloting the Gundam Exia, provides a significant emotional and narrative foil throughout the series. Joshua Edwards, a fellow officer, often taunts Graham about the circumstances surrounding his superior officer’s death, presenting a strained camaraderie. Graham also has interactions with other characters, such as his commanding officers and squad members, which highlight his determination to rise above his past and vindicate himself.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One standout moment occurs in Season 2, Episode 10, where Graham faces Setsuna in a climactic battle, declaring, "A true warrior does not get angry. A true warrior simply fights." This line encapsulates his belief in the honor of battle and his transformation into "Mister Bushido." Another notable scene is in Episode 24 of Season 1, where he confronts the consequences of his past actions, solidifying his resolve to prove himself independent of his reputation.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Graham Aker has gained considerable popularity among fans, with 231 member favorites noted on various platforms. He is voiced by Toshiyuki Morikawa in the Japanese version, notable for his roles in various high-profile anime, and by Chris Sabat in the English dub, known for his work in "Dragon Ball" and other series. Remarkably, Graham’s character resonates with themes of honor and redemption prevalent in many Gundam narratives. His design and characterization, particularly through his dialogue and combat style, have made him a standout figure in the broader Gundam franchise.
