Why the Death of Shigaraki Affects My Hero Academia’s Ending: An Explanation

Chapter 423 of My Hero Academia has confirmed the death of Tomura Shigaraki as he and the previous One For All users managed to defeat All For One in the vestige world in order to assist Deku and the remaining heroes. This development has sparked controversy, not so much due to the outcome, but rather because of the way it was reached. Many fans feel that Shigaraki’s character was underutilized and did not have the opportunity to reach his full potential as the main antagonist of the series.

Despite much of My Hero Academia’s praise for the character’s journey towards becoming the primary antagonist of the series, there is now a belief that All For One was always intended to be the ultimate adversary in the manga. However, this was not the case for a significant period of time.

Shigaraki’s death undeniably impacts the manga’s ending, as even his redemption arc appears hastily executed and lacking the necessary depth and attention it deserved.

Please note: This article includes spoilers for the series.

Explaining the Impact of Tomura Shigaraki’s Death on the Ending of My Hero Academia in the Manga

Deku and Shigaraki in the manga (Image via Shueisha)

Throughout the series, Shigaraki’s character was gradually shaped into that of the ultimate antagonist, paralleling Deku’s transformation into the ultimate hero and ultimately leading to a climactic showdown between the two at the story’s conclusion.

Despite his defeat against Katsuki Bakugo, author Kohei Horikoshi made the decision to resurrect All For One. He also revealed that he had orchestrated events in Shigaraki’s life in order to exact revenge against All Might and to obtain a stronger physical form.

This diminishes Shigaraki’s character as he is stripped of agency and his ultimate battle against All For One is portrayed as rushed, leaving no time for him to reflect on his past.

In addition, it is understandable that Shigaraki would seek revenge against All For One for his actions. However, the absence of dialogue and interactions in chapter 423 was a missed chance. Although the conversation with Deku during Tomura’s final moments was appreciated, it would have been significant for his character to have a few last words with Nana Shimura, his grandmother and the seventh One For All user.

The Absence of Shigaraki as a Threat

Tenko Shimura and Tomura Shigaraki in the anime (Image via Bones).

Despite having a wide range of Quirks and a body that rivaled prime All Might, Shigaraki’s character in the My Hero Academia manga was greatly influenced by the lack of casualties in the final battle. Despite constantly advocating for chaos and destruction, Shigaraki never actually took the lives of any characters throughout the series, which made him feel ineffective as a villain.

Looking back, it can be seen that Horikoshi’s intention was to prevent the character from reaching a point of no return as he was striving for redemption. However, this is a challenge that even All For One faced. Despite their immense power and numerous chances to end the lives of various characters, they ultimately did not succumb to that temptation in the final arc.

Final Thoughts

Despite being initially portrayed as the main antagonist of My Hero Academia, Tomura Shigaraki ultimately took a backseat to All For One, as chosen by Horikoshi. However, the redemption arc, which may have been planned from the beginning, felt rushed and lacking in proper development.