18 Saddest Anime Scenes Ever

Top 18 Tear-Jerking Anime Moments That Will Make You Reach for the Tissue Box!

Anime, oh anime! This incredible medium has the power to make us laugh, cry, and feel all the emotions in between. We’ve all experienced those heart-wrenching moments that leave us sobbing uncontrollably. Today, we’re diving into the most emotional scenes in anime that hit us right in the feels. Get ready to shed tears as we count down the top 18 tear-jerking anime moments that will leave you reaching for the tissue box!

18. Sasha’s Tragic Demise in Attack on Titan

Hold onto your potatoes because this one hits hard! In Attack on Titan’s fourth season, the story takes a dark turn, and our beloved protagonist, Eren, becomes a compelling villain. But it’s the shocking death of Sasha that leaves viewers devastated. Shot in cold blood by an enraged Gabi, Sasha’s last breath breaks our hearts and reminds us of the high stakes in the world of Titans.

17. The Truth Behind Itachi’s Sacrifice in Naruto

Itachi Uchiha, one of the most complex characters in anime history, is believed to be a villain until the truth of his actions comes to light. As it turns out, Itachi was a hidden agent who sacrificed everything he held dear to protect his beloved brother, Sasuke. The heart-wrenching revelation of Itachi’s noble intentions and his ultimate sacrifice for the Leaf Village is a tearjerker that truly showcases the power of brotherly love.

16. Maes Hughes’ Tragic End in Fullmetal Alchemist

Fullmetal Alchemist, an epic shonen series, captivated fans with its captivating storyline and unforgettable characters. One of those characters is Maes Hughes, a fan-favorite detective. However, his relentless pursuit of the truth leads him to uncover a dangerous conspiracy that ultimately costs him his life. Hughes’ demise at the hands of the Homunculi is a gut-wrenching moment that reminds us of the risks taken by those seeking justice.

15. Setsuko’s Heartbreaking Fate in Grave of the Fireflies

Grave of the Fireflies, a Studio Ghibli masterpiece, delves into the devastation of war from a civilian’s perspective. The film centers around the lives of siblings Seita and Setsuko as they struggle to survive during wartime. The heartbreaking moment comes when Setsuko succumbs to malnutrition just as Seita secures food for her. The realization of her passing and Seita’s own tragic fate brings forth a flood of tears.

14. The Heartbreaking Revelation in Your Lie in April

Prepare yourself for a wave of emotions as we dive into Your Lie in April. This enchanting anime revolves around the life of a talented pianist, Kousei, and the violinist who brings color back into his world, Kaori. However, our hearts break when we discover that Kaori is battling a life-threatening illness. The emotional rollercoaster hits its peak as Kaori’s unwritten confession is revealed through a tear-inducing letter.

13. Ushio’s Tragic Fate in Clannad

Clannad is known for its heartwrenching stories and tearful moments, and one of the most devastating revolves around Ushio, a distant child longing for a connection with her troubled father, Tomoya. Tragically, Ushio falls victim to the same illness that claimed her mother’s life. The scene where Ushio takes her last breath in Tomoya’s arms is incredibly difficult to watch and brings tears to even the toughest viewers.

12. The Bittersweet Love Story in Hotarubi No Mori E

Love can be a complicated thing, especially when you can never touch the one you love. Hotarubi No Mori E tells a poignant tale of forbidden love between a human girl, Hotaru, and a forest spirit, Gin. Their relationship is filled with heartache, as Hotaru knows that any physical contact with Gin will cause him to disappear. The moment Gin accidentally touches a human boy and vanishes while holding Hotaru for the first time is a heart-rending scene.

11. Kayo’s Liberation from Abuse in Erased

Erased takes us on a journey of redemption as Kayo, a young girl subjected to an abusive family, finally finds solace in a loving foster home. Witnessing Kayo experience the warmth of a caring mother for the first time is both heartbreaking and uplifting. The raw emotions portrayed in this scene serve as a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of the human spirit.

Kayo Finally Getting The Treatment She Deserves

10. Jiraiya’s Heartbreaking Death in Naruto

Naruto, a beloved series filled with memorable characters, delivers a devastating blow when the wise Jiraiya meets his tragic end. As a mentor and father figure to Naruto, Jiraiya’s untimely demise at the hands of his student, Pain, leaves us heartbroken. His sacrifice showcases the painful reality of war and the heaviness of the burden borne by those who fight for justice.

9. Ace’s Sacrifice for Family in One Piece

One Piece, a tale of adventure and camaraderie, brings forth a heart-wrenching moment that no fan can forget. The strong bond between brothers Luffy and Ace is put to the test when Ace sacrifices himself to save Luffy from a fatal blow. As Ace bids his tearful farewell, we’re left with a heavy heart, reminding us of the sacrifices made for family and the impact they leave behind.

8. Spike’s Tragic Fate in Cowboy Bebop

Cowboy Bebop, a classic anime series, takes a dark turn near its conclusion as Spike confronts his arch-nemesis, Vicious. In a tragic twist of fate, Spike pays the ultimate price for vengeance, losing his own life in the process. His final moment, uttering “bang” before falling, accompanied by heart-wrenching music, leaves us with a profound sense of loss.

7. Lelouch’s Sacrifice in Code Geass

Code Geass introduces us to Lelouch, an anti-hero driven by revenge and righteousness. However, in the series’ final episode, everything is turned on its head. Lelouch’s true intentions are revealed, showcasing a brilliant and tear-jerking sacrifice for the greater good. This moment cements Lelouch as one of the most complex and unforgettable anti-heroes in anime history.

6. Eren’s Traumatic Loss in Attack on Titan

Attack on Titan never shies away from delivering devastating moments, and the first episode sets the tone for the series. The sight of a Titan devouring Eren’s mother right before his eyes is a harrowing and heart-wrenching experience. This tragic event fuels Eren’s determination to fight against the Titans and protect humanity, leaving us with a lasting impression of the horrors within this merciless world.

5. Nina’s Heartbreaking Transformation in Fullmetal Alchemist

Fullmetal Alchemist weaves a compelling story filled with tragedy and sacrifice. However, it’s the fate of young Nina Tucker that brings tears to our eyes. Her father, in a twisted experiment, merges her with their pet dog, forever changing her into a chimera. Witnessing Nina’s innocence shattered and her transformation into a tragic creature is a heart-wrenching moment that lingers long after the episode ends.

4. The Heartbreaking Climax in Future Diary

Hold on tight as we dive into the thrilling twists of Future Diary. While the series is filled with tear-inducing moments, none compare to its gut-punching ending. Yuno, despite her morally ambiguous actions, reveals the depths of her love for Yukiteru. In a heart-wrenching climax, she willingly sacrifices her own life to ensure Yuki’s victory in the twisted game. The emotional weight of this scene grips us and leaves us in awe.

3. Ash’s Temporary Farewell in Pokémon: The First Movie

Even the world of Pokémon has its share of heartbreaking moments, and Pokémon: The First Movie delivers a tear-jerking scene that tugs at our heartstrings. As Mew and Mewtwo clash in a cataclysmic battle, Ash’s courageous intervention leads to his petrification. Witnessing Pikachu’s desperate attempts to revive his beloved trainer is a heart-wrenching sight that resonates with fans of all ages.

2. The Slaughter of Innocence in Devilman Crybaby

Devilman Crybaby is a series that embraces darkness and showcases the depths of human nature. Its most heart-wrenching scene comes when a frenzied mob lynches Miki, Tare, and Masa. The horror of witnessing innocent lives being snuffed out is amplified by the heartbreak on Akira’s face, making this moment truly unforgettable and emotionally devastating.

1. Naruto’s Parents’ Heroic Sacrifice in Naruto

At the top of our tear-jerker list is the tragic tale of Naruto’s parents, Minato and Kushina. On the day of Naruto’s birth, they make the ultimate sacrifice to protect their son and the village. Their selfless deaths, with smiles on their faces, bid farewell to Naruto, leaving an indelible impact on his journey. Their unwavering love and sacrifice demonstrate the immense power of parental devotion, truly deserving the number one spot.

Naruto’s Parents Making The Ultimate Sacrifice

These 18 tear-jerking anime moments remind us of the emotional depth that this medium offers. Whether we’re shedding tears of sadness, joy, or a mix of both, anime has the power to touch our hearts in unimaginable ways. So, grab your tissue box and prepare yourself for an emotional rollercoaster that will leave you wanting to experience more of the beautiful and devastating moments anime has to offer.

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