Series & First Appearance
Kotetsu T. Kaburagi, also known as Wild Tiger, is featured in the anime series Tiger & Bunny, which premiered in 2011. The series was created by Sunrise, with character designs by illustrator Masakazu Katsura. Kotetsu’s character plays a central role throughout the series, embodying themes of heroism and personal growth in a unique superhero setting.
Profile at a Glance
Kotetsu appears to be in his late 30s and serves as one of the primary protagonists in Tiger & Bunny. He is a veteran hero in Sternbild City, known for his raw strength and protective instincts, often leading to collateral damage, which has earned him the nickname "Crusher of Justice." His signature ability, known as Hundred Power, allows him to exhibit extraordinary physical strength for a limited time.
Personality & Motivations
Kotetsu is characterized by a strong moral compass and an unyielding sense of justice, prioritizing the safety of others over his personal fame or reputation. He is stubborn yet compassionate, often acting impulsively when faced with threats. Despite his bumbling moments, he is deeply loyal to his friends and family, which includes his daughter, Kaede, and he carries a promise to his late wife, Tomoe, to continue being a hero. His catchphrase reflects his commitment to justice, often exclaiming, "I won’t let go of this!"
Abilities / Powers
Kotetsu’s main ability, Hundred Power, increases his physical capabilities dramatically, allowing him to perform superhuman feats such as jumping great distances and delivering powerful strikes. However, this power has limitations; it lasts for a maximum of five minutes before becoming ineffective, making timing critical in battles. As the series progresses, he experiences a gradual decline in his power, which poses challenges for him as he confronts powerful adversaries. His combat style combines brute strength with a strategic approach, often relying on intuition and quick thinking during crises.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Kotetsu’s journey is one of redemption and personal growth. Initially, he struggles with his low popularity among the public due to his destructive fighting style. His pivotal character development begins with his bonding with fellow hero Barnaby Brooks Jr., transforming their relationship from rivals to trusted partners. The emotional high point occurs during the climactic showdown against the android H-01, where Kotetsu sacrifices himself to save others, showcasing his selflessness. Following this event, he seemingly dies but later re-emerges to save his daughter and friends, cementing his heroic status and determination.
Notable Relationships
Kotetsu’s relationships significantly shape his arc. His bond with Barnaby is central, evolving from antagonism to a deep camaraderie built on mutual respect. His dedication to his daughter Kaede provides another layer to his character, driving his resolve to uphold the promise to his wife. Additionally, he shares a supportive relationship with other heroes, like Blue Rose, enhancing the emotional stakes in their adventures.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of the most memorable moments occurs in Episode 25, when Kotetsu sacrifices himself to immobilize H-01, urging Barnaby to shoot them both for the greater good—a testament to his courage and dedication. His humorous yet emotional return after being presumed dead in Episode 26 delivers an impactful blend of relief and levity, as he punctuates the moment with a classic line, "I just fainted from the pain!" This scene resonates strongly with fans, underlining his indomitable spirit.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Kotetsu T. Kaburagi has gained significant popularity, with member favorites tallying around 2,076. His voice in the Japanese version is provided by Hiroaki Hirata, while the English dub features the talents of Sean Schemmel. The character’s design and persona are heavily influenced by classic American superhero tropes, yet he retains a unique Japanese flair, merging traditional heroism with relatable personal struggles. Kotetsu’s character serves as a critique of modern hero culture, exploring themes of celebrity versus genuine heroism, which resonates with audiences globally.
Overall, Kotetsu T. Kaburagi stands out in the landscape of anime as an embodiment of resilience and the complex nature of what it means to be a hero.
