The Final War arc of My Hero Academia has left an indelible mark on fans, stirring a whirlwind of emotions as beloved characters face their destinies. As the dramatic clashes between heroes and villains unfold, many treasured figures have been lost. In this post, we delve into the most heartbreaking deaths in MHA, ensuring that their sacrifices resonate with us all.
With a passion for storytelling, I have followed this series closely and witnessed its emotional depth firsthand. The narrative complexity and character development makes it a vivid experience for viewers and readers alike.
5. Hero Killer Stain

Stain, known as the Hero Killer, represents a multifaceted nature of morality in MHA. His intentions to correct seemingly flawed heroes were overshadowed by his disturbing methods. Despite being an antagonist, he chose to assist the heroes by revealing crucial information about the villains from Tartarus. Ultimately, he sacrificed his life to protect his idol, All Might.
I never benefitted from higher education. It was you who taught me what a hero is. Live on, triumph, my everything, my All…!
In a valiant effort, Stain attempted to restrain All For One (AFO) using his Bloodcurdle quirk, but his plans collapsed, culminating in a tragic yet poignant end.
4. Kurogiri

Kurogiri’s backstory took us by surprise—revealed to be the remains of Oboro Shirakumo, a friend of Aizawa and Mic, his fate became a symbol of lost potential and loyalty. Caught in a conflict of identities during the final war, Kurogiri nevertheless aided the heroes in their fight against AFO.
I must protect Tomura Shigaraki. AFO, give back Tomura Shigaraki ah….
His decision to protect Shigaraki proved fatal, reinforcing the theme of sacrifice that runs deeply through the series.
3. Dabi

Another tragic figure, Dabi personifies the consequences of misguided parental expectations. Although he repeatedly evaded death seeking vengeance against his family, his survival came with deep emotional scars.
Shoto, I’m Sorry…
Dabi made a shocking attempt to end his life as a bomb but was ultimately saved by his family. Nevertheless, his injuries ensured that he was not long for this world, echoing his tragic story long after the war.
2. Himiko Toga

Himiko Toga’s story is a poignant example of the struggle for identity amidst chaos. Throughout the series, her desire for connection conflicted with her life’s darker aspects. In a significant moment during the final war, she engaged with Ochaco Uraraka, reflecting her internal conflict.
I’m Himiko Toga. I live and love how I please. That’s how I made my way in life. Just a normal girl with the cutest smile in the world!
Her final act of heroism—using her quirk to save Uraraka—led to her untimely demise, leaving an emotional impact that resonates deeply with the fandom.
1. Tomura Shigaraki

Finally, Tomura Shigaraki stands as the embodiment of trauma and destruction within MHA. Driven by hatred, he became a seemingly irredeemable figure. However, traces of the vulnerable child within him surfaced, making his story even more tragic.
Izuku Midoriya, if Spinner survived this tell him, that even to the bitter end, Tomura Shigaraki kept fighting to destroy.
After enduring control by AFO, his eventual defeat was heartbreaking, culminating in a loss that left us reflecting on his humanity, even amidst chaos.
The Final War arc has shown us that the deaths of villains often hit heavier than those of heroes. Characters like Tomura and Toga challenge our understanding of good and evil, making us question their influences. What was your most heartbreaking death in My Hero Academia? Join the conversation and explore more content at Moyens I/O.