Nezuko Kamado is one of the main characters in the popular anime and manga series Demon Slayer. As the beloved younger sister of Tanjiro Kamado, the protagonist, Nezuko often attracts the attention and affection of other characters in the series. Even after being turned into a demon, Nezuko maintains her human emotions and connections, leading several characters to develop crushes or feelings for her throughout the story.
Nezuko’s Appearance and Personality
As a human, Nezuko was described as a beautiful girl with long black hair and bright crimson eyes. Her petite stature and youthful looks are maintained even after she is transformed into a demon. Though she cannot speak as a demon, Nezuko retains her caring, protective nature especially towards her brother Tanjiro. This combination of Nezuko’s gentle nature and cute appearance makes her endearing to many characters.
Who is Most Protective of Nezuko?
The character most protective of and invested in Nezuko’s safety is undoubtedly her older brother, Tanjiro Kamado. After their family is slaughtered and Nezuko is turned into a demon, Tanjiro takes it upon himself to find a cure and turn Nezuko back into a human. He fights to protect her from harm and is willing to make great sacrifices to ensure her well-being. Though others come to care for Nezuko, nobody displays the level of devotion and protection as her brother Tanjiro.
Characters Who Show Affection for Nezuko
While several characters show concern and kindness towards Nezuko, a few stand out as potentially harboring deeper feelings or a crush on the gentle demon girl.
Zenitsu Agatsuma
One character whose affection for Nezuko seems strongest is Zenitsu Agatsuma. Zenitsu is a Demon Slayer in training alongside Tanjiro and becomes smitten with Nezuko when they first meet. Though initially terrified of demons, Zenitsu quickly becomes entranced by Nezuko’s beauty and kind nature after seeing her protect her brother. He openly professes his love for her and a desire to marry her. Zenitsu becomes very protective of Nezuko, doing whatever he can to keep her out of harm’s way in battle. It is apparent that his feelings are sincere and that he has an intense crush on the girl.
Inosuke Hashibira
Another character who shows a strong attachment to Nezuko is Inosuke Hashibira. Inosuke is another Demon Slayer who trains with Tanjiro and Zenitsu. Though brash and aggressive, Inosuke seems to have a soft spot for Nezuko. He is impressed by her strength and combat abilities and gives her the nickname “Lady Nezuko”. Inosuke seeks to challenge and test Nezuko’s skills, which could indicate a crush. Some fans also cite his jealousy towards Zenitsu’s affection for Nezuko as a sign of his own latent feelings for the girl.
Kanao Tsuyuri
A female character who demonstrates protectiveness and possible affection for Nezuko is Kanao Tsuyuri. Kanao is an elite Demon Slayer who later is assigned to assist and watch over Nezuko. Though initially wary, Kanao comes to understand Nezuko’s kind nature and develops a duty to keep her safe. Some interpret Kanao’s dedication to protecting Nezuko as a sign of a crush. However, it may also simply reflect Kanao’s strong sense of responsibility.
Giyu Tomioka
As a high-ranking Demon Slayer who fights to preserve Nezuko’s life after her transformation, Giyu Tomioka is another character some speculate may harbor affections for the girl. Giyu puts his own position at risk by speaking up for Nezuko after Tanjiro appeals to him for help. While Giyu’s actions could suggest a crush, they may also just demonstrate his commitment to helping Tanjiro’s honorable quest.
Other Characters’ Connections to Nezuko
In addition to potential crushes, other characters in Demon Slayer interact with and relate to Nezuko in meaningful ways.
Shinobu Kocho
Shinobu Kocho initially despises Nezuko due to her deep hatred of demons from past trauma. However, after witnessing Nezuko’s devotion to protecting humans, Shinobu undergoes a change of heart. She comes to appreciate Nezuko’s unique qualities and even tearfully asks for her blood to treat a gravely ill Kanao. Their relationship represents an important evolution in human-demon relations.
Kiyoshi and Nayuta
Kiyoshi and Nayuta are two young siblings who Nezuko and Tanjiro meet while seeking shelter. Nezuko’s protective, caring nature towards the children further demonstrates her retained humanity and helps the young pair feel safe and happy despite the difficult circumstances. This moment is a touching example of Nezuko bringing joy.
Tamayo and Yushiro
Tamayo and Yushiro are two kindly demons who provide shelter and ally with Nezuko and Tanjiro. Tamayo’s medical expertise helps Nezuko, while Yushiro’s fond friendship shows Nezuko’s ability to bond with other demons. This positive relationship with fellow demons illustrates Nezuko’s bridging the divide between humans and demons through her actions.
Nezuko’s Relationships Focused on Family
However, it is also important to note that Nezuko does not display any overt romantic feelings or crushes herself throughout the story. Her focus remains on protecting her brother Tanjiro as well as other humans.
Bond with Brother Tanjiro
Nezuko’s closest relationship in the series is with her brother Tanjiro. After their family’s murder, the two cling to one another as the last surviving members. Nezuko’s devotion to Tanjiro trumps all else, as she willingly risks her safety many times to guard and defend him from threats. Their powerful familial bond and mutual care define Nezuko’s motivations.
Protectiveness Over Humans
Additionally, Nezuko extends her sense of family to all humans, resolutely shielding innocent people from harm against demon foes. This reflects her retained humanity and empathy, as she chooses to side with people over fellow demons. Her protective instincts expose her priorities devoted to human relationships, not romance.
Disinterest in Romance
Throughout the series, Nezuko does not indicate any romantic inclinations or desires. With her focus singularly on protecting her brother, other humans, and resisting her demon urges, Nezuko has little time or capacity for romance. Any crushes on Nezuko appear one-sided.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while several characters seem to develop feelings or affection for Nezuko driven by her outward cuteness and inward kindness, Nezuko herself does not reciprocate these potential crushes. Her story arc revolves around her familial ties to her brother Tanjiro and adopted human family. Nezuko’s relationships point to larger themes of humanity and compassion. She ultimately represents the demon who retains human empathy and love, prioritizing these bonds over romance.