How This Male Character Archetype Defies Gender Norms in Anime
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The himbo character type has been around in anime for a long time, and it’s only gained more popularity. Himbos are handsome, affable characters with big hearts. Calling a male character a himbo is far different from calling a woman character a bimbo; the gender reversal is far more complimentary than insulting, because it subverts gender expectations.
Classic anime tends to rely on gender norms, but some characters and newer anime challenge those stereotypes. Different audience demographics love the character type for different reasons. Himbos in fantasy and shojo anime tend to feel refreshing to the audience. Shonen himbos tend to be hilarious, but also encourage cross-demographic audience appeal. A well-written himbo shines, but doesn’t feel the need to take the spotlight.
Above all, a himbo is three things: handsome, kind, and simple. Some himbo characters may lean into one or more of those qualities than others; there’s always some nuance at play in a well-written himbo. Attraction is subjective, after all, and some himbos are aware of how handsome they are, whereas others are completely oblivious.
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