List of main and supporting characters from Crayon Shin-chan
Main characters
- (野原 新之助)
- A kindergartener aged five and a member of the Kasukabe Defence Force. He is the son of Hiroshi and Misae and elder brother to Himawari, commonly referred to as "Shin-chan." His preferred snacks include chocolate biscuits, and he admires characters such as "Action Kamen" and "Kantum Robot." Sharing his parents’ gluttonous and stubborn traits, he differs by being brazen, outspoken, and often tactless, with a tendency to make immature jokes centered on buttocks. He struggles with reading and writing and frequently mispronounces words. Despite his crude demeanor, he deeply cares for his family and occasionally displays surprising maturity. In several dubbed versions, he is known as Shin-chan Nohara; Julian Ryall has described him as the "Japanese Bart Simpson."
- Misae Nohara
- Mother of Shinnosuke, originating from Aso in Kumamoto Prefecture. She balances a caring nature with frugality but does not hesitate to indulge her children. During financial difficulties, she secretly saves money for household expenses. Lacking skills in computers and English, she sometimes takes on part-time jobs locally but finds it hard to keep them due to her temperamental disposition. Various dubs refer to her as Mitsy or Mitsi Nohara.
- Hiroshi Nohara
- Father of Shinnosuke hailing from near Omagari in Akita Prefecture and an alumnus of Waseda University. As the family’s sole breadwinner, he holds a junior managerial position at Futaba Corporation located in Kasumigaseki. Embodying the typical Japanese salaryman, he endures long working hours and hands his entire income over to his wife. Financial disagreements and clashes over personal habits like his passion for golf are common between him and Misae. Different dubs call him Harry or Hiro Nohara.
- Himawari Nohara
- Shinnosuke’s younger sister, a name assigned by viewers. She is lively and precocious, sharing many mischievous tendencies with her brother despite their parents’ hopes for otherwise. The siblings maintain a close relationship despite occasional rivalry. Known as Daisy or Hima Nohara in various dubbed versions.
- Shiro
- A white Maltese puppy adopted by Shinnosuke after finding him abandoned. Intelligent and protective of Himawari, Shiro often goes unnoticed but proves resourceful. Referred to as Lucky or Whitey in different dubs; the Funimation adaptation adds a British accent and a backstory involving a deceased brother.
- Toru Kazama
- Shinnosuke’s friend who attends supplementary classes aiming for admission into a prestigious elementary school. Academically adept and athletic, he conceals some interests to appear more mature. His close relationship with his mother stems from his father’s frequent overseas absences. Although sometimes acting superior toward Shinnosuke’s family background, he secretly envies certain aspects of Shinnosuke’s life. Known as Cosmo or Georgie Herbert Walker Prescott III across various dubs.
- A five-year-old girl who is Shinnosuke’s classmate and the only female best friend within the Kasukabe Defence Force. She harbors a subtle crush on him and enjoys playing 'real house,' mimicking scenes from Japanese dramas. Strong-willed yet kind-hearted, she fiercely protects her friends. Known by names such as Nini or Penny Milfer in different dubbed versions.
- A timid five-year-old boy with low confidence who is often teased by peers; encouraged by Nene to assert himself more. He shows creativity through comics and values cleanliness, harboring affection for Ai but feeling jealousy toward Shinnosuke’s closeness with her. Called Max or Maso Sato in various dubs.
- Bo Suzuki or
- A five-year-old boy counted among Shinnosuke’s closest friends, recognized for his slow, calm demeanor paired with unexpected intelligence. He enjoys collecting stones and exploring urban legends such as UFO sightings. Known as Boo in the Funimation dub; originally named Suzuki in Hindi dubs but renamed due to brand conflicts.
Supporting characters
- Shinnosuke's homeroom teacher and spouse of Junichi Ishizaka, who competes with Ume Matsuzaka but steps in to defend her during emergencies. Her home doubles as the Kasukabe Defence Force's covert headquarters, although she prohibits this arrangement after getting married. Referred to as Miss Dori Snell (Vitello/Phuuz) and Miss Anderson (Funimation).
- Rose Class instructor and Ishizaka’s adversary from a rural area. She aims for a higher teaching role but continues at Futaba Kindergarten despite opportunities elsewhere. Single and often unsuccessful in romantic pursuits, she briefly dates Tokurou. Known as Miss Uma (Vitello/Phuuz) and Rachel Katz (Funimation).
- Sakura class teacher who initially substitutes for Matsuzaka before securing a permanent position. She suffers from acrophobia and becomes anxious around large crowds. She dates Kuroiso, Ai’s bodyguard. Identified as Miss Agnes (Vitello/Phuuz) and Miss Polly (Funimation).
- Principal of Futaba Kindergarten, whose kind demeanor contrasts with his yakuza-like appearance. He experiences high blood pressure due to stress caused by both staff and students. Called Principal Enzo (Vitello/Phuuz) and Principal Bernoulli Ench (Funimation).
- Hiroshi’s father and Shinnosuke’s grandfather, known for his flirtatious nature and tech-savviness. His extended visits often create tension within the family. Named Gary in Vitello/Phuuz dubs and "Gin" in Funimation.
- Hiroshi’s wife, who is more level-headed than Ginnosuke but sometimes indulges in his antics.
- Misae’s father and Shinnosuke’s maternal grandfather, a retired educator with strict principles yet a caring disposition. Initially disapproves of Hiroshi but eventually accepts him. Known as Waldo (Vitello/Phuuz) and Yoshi Koyama (Funimation).
- Misae’s mother, frequently quarrels with Yoshiji and criticizes Ginnosuke’s behavior. The Funimation dub hints at her having had suicidal thoughts.
- Misae’s younger sister, an aspiring photographer residing with Misae after family conflicts. She attempts a professional career but returns home following setbacks. Known as Musae Mausi (Indian dub) and Bitzi Koyama (Funimation), where she is portrayed as addicted to brown-brown.
- "Ai-Chan"
- A five-year-old girl originally from New York who enrolls at Futaba Kindergarten by chance. She harbors a crush on Shinnosuke, who remains unaware of her feelings. Later moves to Hokkaido but makes occasional visits. Called Sally in Phuuz dub.
- "Cheetah Kawamura"
- Leader of the Rose Class clique distinguished by leopard print attire; frequently clashes with Shinnosuke’s group yet occasionally shows compassion.
- Rose class pupils known for bullying Masao; unnamed second graders in Funimation dub.
- Nene’s mother, a friend of Misae despite being annoyed by Shinnosuke’s mischief. Identified as Ruby (Vitello/Phuuz) and Patty Milfer (Funimation). A recurring joke centers on her wish to escape an abusive marriage for financial independence.
- Kazama’s mother who pushes him toward extracurricular activities; friends with Misae, who envies her wealth and son’s manners. Known as Barbara Prescott in Funimation.
- Masao’s mother bearing a resemblance to her son.
- Ai-chan’s devoted bodyguard and driver; formerly dated Miss Ageo. Known as Mr. K in Funimation.
- A college student training to become a kindergarten teacher and Shinnosuke’s romantic interest; the only one tolerant of his antics. Called Miss Bono in Vitello/Phuuz dubs.
- Nanako’s overprotective father and well-known author who disapproves of Shinnosuke's affections but collaborates to safeguard Nanako. In Funimation dubbed as Will Cumton, a comedic vampire character.
- Nanako’s college friend aspiring to be a professional wrestler; involved in a romantic subplot within the manga. Known as Griselda in Funimation.
- Editor at Futaba Publishing responsible for overseeing Shijuurou’s work; modeled after an actual manga editor-in-chief. Referred to as Renfield in Funimation dub.
- Leader of the Saitama Red Scorpions gang; tough outwardly but secretly enjoys cosplay and has a crush on Shinnosuke’s kendo instructor.
- Saitama Red Scorpions member recognized by his fish-eye mask; stoic yet caring toward his ill mother.
- Saitama Red Scorpions member who supports friends despite being clumsy.
- Hiroshi’s coworker who admires him and harbors feelings for junior Yumi Kusaka. Named Morty Giffel in Vitello/Phuuz dubs.
- Hiroshi's boss
- Hiroshi's workplace manager.
- Misae’s middle school friend married to Satoshi Honda.
- A 21-year-old anime fan wed to Keiko Honda, owner of Action Mask merchandise. Called Jim in Vitello/Phuuz dubs.
- Hitoshi Honda
- Son of Keiko and Satoshi Honda.
- Fumie Mogamigawa
- Keiko's niece who occasionally babysits Shinnosuke and Hitoshi.
- Nohara family neighbor known for gossiping with Misae and temporarily housing the family after their home is destroyed. Called Goobers or Yuka depending on the dub version.
- Kitamoto’s nephew from the United States unfamiliar with Japanese culture, frequently taught about it by Shinnosuke—often inaccurately. Portrayed differently across dubs, including as a French albino character indoctrinated by terrorists.
- &
- Nohara neighbors who often visit despite minor disputes; depicted as financially challenged couple with distinctive hobbies across various dubs.
- Landlady of "Falling Apartments," strict about regulations due to personal loss connected to the property. Assisted Midori during childbirth in the manga version.
- Nohara neighbor mistaken for Tokyo University student but repeatedly failing entrance exams; financially supported by Noharas even after their return home.
- &
- A young housewife living opposite the Noharas with toddler daughter Atsumi, befriends Misae. Portrayed variably including an American valley girl accent in Funimation dub.
- Falling Apartments resident aspiring actress who practices through costumes with Shinnosuke's help until successful audition leads to moving out.
- Midori's easygoing husband who bonds well with children but lacks confidence; portrayed differently across dubs including as telepathic popcorn salesman jailed for accidental harm.
- Ume Matsuzaka's archaeologist boyfriend fascinated by bones who dies during an expedition only depicted in manga.
- A passionate young staff member at Futaba Kindergarten suffering from rabbit phobia which is overcome with Shinnosuke's assistance. In Funimation dubbed as mutant "The Flamer," advocating natural selection by eliminating normals.
Other characters
- Ikue Takakura
- Takakura’s spouse and the vice principal at Futaba Kindergarten.
- Hiroshi Nohara's brother
- Uncle to Shinnosuke and Himawari, a farmer frequently clashing with Hiroshi. He weds Ikuna Ogano.
- Misae’s elder sister
- A middle school staff member known for wearing refined kimonos and exhibiting lively behavior. Referred to as Minnie in certain dubs.
- Nene’s father
- Enthusiastic about cherry blossom festivals. Called Bill Milfer in the Funimation version, where he is suggested to have had a troubled past but reformed following legal troubles.
- Wealthy architect
- Possesses greater affluence than most parents and often travels internationally. Maintains a friendly relationship with the Nohara family. Depicted as an American diplomat in the Funimation dub.
- Salaryman
- A former rock band member prior to marriage.
- One-time manga character
- Appeared solely in the manga and absent from the anime adaptation.
- Misae’s friend
- A manga artist by profession.
- Talking pig
- A timid pig from Shinnosuke’s imagination, treated as if real. Revived prominently in 2016 within the "Crayon Wars" parody. Known as Big-a-zoid or Brave Pig in various international dubs.
- Live-action superhero
- A parody of tokusatsu heroes such as Kamen Rider. The movie redefines his origin as a technology-enhanced human. Star of a 2014 spin-off manga accessible on Crunchyroll. Known by multiple names across global dubs.
- Action Mask’s alter ego
- A stunt performer who battles monsters using logic rather than force in the spin-off manga. Called Bruce Bastard in the Funimation dub, featuring a parody superhero backstory.
- Action Mask’s assistant
- Provides weaponry and intelligence support, frequently captured by villains. Portrayed as an adult aide in spin-off manga. Known as Loli Pop in Funimation dub.
- Gear inventor
- Creator of Action Mask’s equipment, later replaced by Professor Kitakasukabe in spin-offs. Referred to as Doc in the Funimation version.
- Robotic nemesis
- The mechanical archrival leading the Black MekeMeke Group, capable of imitating Action Mask’s fighting style.
- Black MekeMeke Group "Black Four Heavenly Kings"
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- – Female member distinguished by a heart-shaped head covering.
- – Chimpanzee admiral who has a son named Yankikki.
- – Humanoid with insect-like features.
- – Iguana humanoid wielding a sword.
- Sparrow Group leader
- Head of Sparrow Group and Mimiko’s brainwashed missing brother, sporting attire inspired by Science Ninja Team Gatchaman. Called Flying Pecker in the Funimation dub.
- Richard von Tsubainbach
- The mastermind behind Sparrow Group and an eccentric scientist acquaintance of Professor Gō. Known as Dr. Hitlerclone with a German accent in Funimation dub.
- Baron Flower
- A villain admired for his chivalry, especially towards Mimiko. Referred to as The Deflowerer in Funimation dub.
- Misato Yashio
- A tokusatsu enthusiast appearing exclusively in spin-off manga who encounters Gō/Action Mask.
- Bal
- A spectral figure assisting Gō’s transformations within the spin-off manga.
- Kantam Robo
- Shinnosuke’s favored mecha anime character parodying Gundam. Comprises a main robot and a smaller pilot robot. Known internationally as Psycho Robotico or Robo Grinder.
- John Yamada
- The human partner aiding Kantam Robo's transformations.
- President Gilkilos
- Principal antagonist of Kantam Robo and leader of the Midnight Secret Society.
- Kaizam Robo
- Older brother and rival to Kantam, working under President Gilkilos.
- SHIN-MEN members
-
- – Fire-powered member known for laziness.
- – Leader who controls wind.
- – Iron-bodied shapeshifting member.
- – Jokester with water powers.
- – Plant-powered member reliant on water.
- Piroshi
- Ramen shop owner who looks after Gou due to his indolence.
- Motohisa
- A child fascinated by Westerns and ninja films, unsuccessfully pursuing Nene’s affections.
- Atsushi Kutsuzoko
- A truck driver appearing solely in manga chapters.
- Undercover police officers
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- – Narcotics agent posing as son.
- – Partner posing as father.
- Known respectively as Barnie Ota and Ken Nakatomi in Funimation dub, where they are depicted as a gay couple with implied romantic feelings.
- Momo Ishizaka
- Daughter of Midori and Junichi, appearing only in the manga storyline.
- Matsuzaka sisters
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- – Eldest sister actively seeking marriage, often competing for male attention.
- – Second eldest sister dressed in Western fashion, competing with her sibling over men interested in Ume.
- Fictional magical girls
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- – Parody character secretly admired by Kazama.
- – Moe-inspired magical girl parody featuring an inheritance plotline in Funimation dub.
- Fictional monster toy
- A Shin-chan-owned monster toy parodying Godzilla, called Bare-Ass Godzilla in Funimation dub.
- College student supervisor
- Frequently losing jobs due to Shin-chan’s mischief but ultimately overseeing him at the Action Department Store lost child section.
- Shinnosuke’s kendo instructor
- Portrayed with paranoid schizophrenia and heroic delusions in Funimation dub. Reportedly deceased in Afghanistan (season 3).
- Newscaster
- Regularly viewed by Misae, named after Dan Rather. Known as Sam Donarshin in some dubs.
- Local manga artist
- Famous creator inspired by Shinnosuke, with name derived from reversed initials of series creator Yoshito Usui. Known internationally as Marty Flang.
- Series creator cameo
- Manga author making appearances depicted younger and more colorful during karaoke scenes.
- Door-to-door saleswoman
- From Sendai, whose intimidating look hinders sales efforts. Early anime versions removed male features following concerns about transphobia.
- Anger target doll
- Punching bag used by Nene and her mother to release frustration, occasionally coming alive under red moonlight seeking vengeance. Called Happiness Bunny in Funimation dub.
- Future girl resembling Shinnosuke
- A tactful and empathetic female counterpart contrasting his personality traits.
- Tokyo Bay opponent
- The adversary defeated when Shin-chan fires a chemical substance down its throat.
References