Nohara Hiroshi

Main characters

(野原 新之助)

A kindergartner aged five and a member of the Kasukabe Defence Force. He is the son of Hiroshi and Misae, and the older brother to Himawari, commonly referred to as "Shin-chan." His favorite treats include chocolate biscuits, and he admires characters such as "Action Kamen" and "Kantum Robot." He dislikes green peppers. Shin-chan inherits traits like gluttony, stubbornness, and forgetfulness from his parents, while also displaying shamelessness, outspokenness, and an affinity for humor centered on buttocks. Being illiterate at his age, he often mispronounces words and indulges in toilet humor beyond his years. Despite his crude antics, he demonstrates genuine affection and occasional moments of maturity. Various dubs refer to him as Shin-chan Nohara or Shin Nohara; Julian Ryall described him as the "Japanese Bart Simpson."

Misae Nohara

The mother of Shinnosuke, originally from Aso in Kumamoto Prefecture. She is nurturing but imperfect—frugal by nature yet willing to spend generously on her children. During financial difficulties, she secretly saves money for household expenses. She lacks computer skills and cannot speak English. Occasionally taking on part-time jobs locally, she struggles to maintain employment due to her quick temper. Different dubs name her Mitsy or Mitzi Nohara.

Hiroshi Nohara

Shinnosuke’s father hailing from near Omagari in Akita Prefecture and a graduate of Waseda University. As the family’s sole breadwinner, he works as a low-ranking manager at Futaba Corporation in Kasumigaseki. He embodies the typical Japanese salaryman lifestyle, often working overtime and handing his earnings over to Misae, who manages the household budget. Despite Misae’s disapproval, he enjoys playing golf. Various dubs call him Harry or Hiro Nohara.

Himawari Nohara

The youngest member of the family and Shinnosuke’s sister, her name meaning "sunflower," chosen through viewer input. She is lively and precocious, sharing her brother’s mischievous streak despite their parents’ hopes for her to be different. The siblings maintain a close bond despite occasional rivalry. She is known as Daisy or Hima Nohara in several dubs.

Shiro

A white Maltese puppy that Shinnosuke adopted after it was abandoned. Intelligent and protective toward Himawari, yet frequently neglected and underfed. Known as Lucky or Whitey in various dubs; the Funimation version adds a British accent along with a backstory involving a deceased sibling.

Toru Kazama

One of Shinnosuke’s friends who secretly regards him as his closest companion despite frequent quarrels between them. Kazama attends cram school with ambitions to enter a prestigious primary school while participating in numerous extracurricular activities, all while projecting an image of sophistication. He excels in football and baseball but conceals interests like animation to maintain maturity. Deeply attached to his mother due to his father’s frequent overseas absences, he sometimes looks down on Shinnosuke’s family background but envies his sister and pet dog. Known as Cosmo or Georgie Herbert Walker Prescott III in different dubs.

A five-year-old classmate who is Shinnosuke’s only female best friend and the sole female member of the Kasukabe Defence Force. She harbors a subtle crush on him and competes with Ai for influence among boys. She uses a stuffed bunny toy to calm herself when angry but has an affinity for rabbits overall. Enjoying role-playing Japanese dramas with friends, she fiercely defends them when needed. Referred to as Nini or Penny Milfer in various dubs.

A timid five-year-old boy lacking self-confidence who faces teasing but receives encouragement from Nene to build self-esteem. He is imaginative with comics and maintains cleanliness habits. Though he loves Ai, he feels jealous of Shinnosuke’s closeness with her; nevertheless, he remains best friends with both children. Known as Max or Maso Sato in different dubs.

Bo Suzuki or

A five-year-old boy who is Nisu’s brother and one of Shinnosuke’s closest companions. He is slow-moving and stoic but possesses surprising intelligence that catches others off guard. He enjoys collecting stones and exploring urban legends such as UFO sightings. Called Boo in the Funimation dub; initially named Suzuki in the Hindi version but renamed due to similarity with the Maruti Suzuki brand.

Supporting characters

Shinnosuke's homeroom teacher and spouse of Junichi Ishizaka, frequently competes with Ume Matsuzaka yet comes to her defense in critical situations. Her residence functions as the covert headquarters for the Kasukabe Defence Force, despite her forbidding their gatherings after marriage. Referred to as Miss Dori Snell (Vitello/Phuuz) and Miss Anderson (Funimation).

Educator of the Rose Class originating from a rural area, facing financial difficulties despite yearning for a more affluent lifestyle. Though discontented with teaching at Futaba Kindergarten, she remains employed there despite receiving superior offers elsewhere. Has a complex romantic history, including a brief relationship with Tokurou. Known as Miss Uma (Vitello/Phuuz) and Rachel Katz (Funimation).

A 22-year-old teacher for the Sakura Class who initially served as Matsuzaka's substitute. She is anxious and suffers from acrophobia, dating Ai's bodyguard Kuroiso. Identified as Miss Agnes (Vitello/Phuuz) and Miss Polly (Funimation).

The principal of Futaba Kindergarten, bearing a yakuza-like appearance but possessing a kindhearted nature. Experiences hypertension due to the pressures from staff and students. Known as Principal Enzo (Vitello/Phuuz) and Principal Bernoulli Ench (Funimation).

Hiroshi's father and Shinnosuke's grandfather, sharing a flirtatious demeanor similar to his son and grandson. Exhibits greater technological proficiency than younger family members. Named Gary in Vitello/Phuuz and Gin in Funimation.

Hiroshi's wife and Shinnosuke's grandmother, generally more sensible but occasionally participates in playful antics.

Misae’s strict father and retired educator who adores his grandchildren. 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 conduct. The Funimation dub hints at her previous suicidal thoughts.

Misae’s younger sister, an aspiring photographer who resides with Misae following family disputes. Later employed at Kasukabe bookstore. Known as Musae Mausi (Indian dub) and Bitzi Koyama (Funimation).

"Ai-Chan"

A five-year-old girl originally from New York who enrolls at Futaba Kindergarten after relocating to Japan. She harbors feelings for Shinnosuke, which go unnoticed by him. Eventually moves permanently to Hokkaido. Called Sally in the Phuuz dub.

Known as "Cheetah" due to his leopard-print shirt, he leads the Rose Class clique that often opposes Shinnosuke’s group but demonstrates kindness on important occasions.

&

Students from the Rose Class who bully Masao; unnamed second-graders in the Funimation version.

Nene’s mother, who maintains a friendship with Misae despite frustrations over Shinnosuke’s behavior. Known as Ruby (Vitello/Phuuz) and Patty Milfer (Funimation). Frequently portrayed as striving for independence from an abusive spouse.

Kazama’s mother who strongly encourages extracurricular activities for her son; secretly envied by Misae for her wealth and well-mannered child. Known as Barbara Prescott in Funimation.

Masao’s mother.

Ai-chan’s devoted bodyguard and driver, formerly partnered with Miss Ageo. Known as Mr. K in Funimation.

A university student training to become a kindergarten teacher and Shinnosuke’s romantic interest; uniquely unaffected by his antics. Called Miss Bono in Vitello/Phuuz.

Nanako’s father, a well-known author who is overprotective and disapproves of Shinnosuke’s affections toward Nanako. Named Will Cumton in Funimation, reimagined there as a vampire character.

Nanako’s college friend aspiring to be a professional wrestler; referred to as Griselda in Funimation.

An editor at Futaba Publishing modeled after a real manga editor-in-chief. Renamed Renfield in the Funimation dub.

Leader of the Saitama Red Scorpions gang who secretly enjoys cosplaying Sailor Moon characters despite his tough exterior.

A member of the Saitama Red Scorpions known for wearing a mask resembling a dead fish eye; kindhearted beneath his stoic facade.

A clumsy yet supportive member of the Saitama Red Scorpions.

Hiroshi’s coworker who admires him and harbors feelings for junior colleague Yumi Kusaka. Known as Morty Giffel in Vitello/Phuuz.

Hiroshi's boss

Hiroshi's manager.

&

Misae’s middle school friend Keiko is married to Satoshi, an anime fan owning Action Mask collectibles. Satoshi is called Jim in Vitello/Phuuz.

Son of Keiko and Satoshi.

Fumie Mogamigawa

Keiko’s niece who occasionally babysits.

The Nohara family's neighbor known for gossiping and caring for their dog during their temporary absence. Called Goobers or Yuka depending on the dub.

Kitamoto's American nephew unfamiliar with Japanese customs, sometimes staying at her home. Portrayed differently across dubs including indoctrination storylines.

&

The Noharas' neighbors who visit frequently despite minor disputes, depicted as financially strained in Funimation dub. Named Luis and Gidgy respectively in Vitello/Phuuz.

"Falling Apartments" strict landlord protective of property inherited from her late husband and daughter. Called Manlady in Funimation.

Nohara neighbor mistaken by Misae and Hiroshi for a Tokyo University student, continues receiving their support after academic setbacks. Portrayed as a stereotypical nerd in Funimation.

&

Atsuko is an 18-year-old housewife living opposite the Noharas with her daughter Atsumi, known as Summer and Paris respectively in Funimation with altered backstories.

"Falling Apartments" resident aspiring actress who moves out after securing roles with Shinnosuke's assistance.

Midori's easygoing husband known as Ricky or Doyle depending on the dub, depicted variably including a telepathic popcorn salesman persona.

Ume Matsuzaka's archaeologist boyfriend fascinated by bones who dies during an African expedition solely in the manga.

A passionate 21-year-old temporary teacher at Futaba Kindergarten who conquers her fear of rabbits with Shinnosuke's help. Portrayed as mutant "The Flamer" in Funimation featuring natural selection themes.

Other characters

The vice principal of Futaba Kindergarten and Takakura’s spouse.

Hiroshi’s sibling, uncle to Shinnosuke and Himawari, a farmer frequently clashing with Hiroshi. Eventually weds Ikuna Ogano.

Misae’s elder sister and Shinnosuke’s aunt, employed at the same middle school where their father once taught. Referred to as Minnie in certain dubs.

Nene’s father who delights in cherry blossom festivals. The Funimation dub hints at past abusive behavior, later reformed following legal troubles.

A prosperous architect who often travels internationally, friendly with the Nohara family. Depicted as an American diplomat in the Funimation dub.

A former rock band member turned salaryman.

Character appearing exclusively once in the manga.

Misae’s acquaintance and manga creator.

A timid talking pig originating from Shinnosuke’s imagination, recurring throughout the series. Revived in 2016 with a new voice actor and featured prominently in specials parodying Star Wars. Known as Big-a-zoid or Brave Pig in different dubs.

A live-action superhero spoofing tokusatsu shows, originating either from "Action Planet" or advanced technology depending on the adaptation. The protagonist of a 2014 spin-off manga published by Futabasha and available on Crunchyroll. Called Masked Muchacho or Action Bastard in various dubs.

Action Mask’s alter ego, a stuntman who combats monsters through reasoning rather than force in the spin-off manga. Named Bruce Bastard in the Funimation dub with a parody superhero backstory.

Sidekick to Action Mask who supplies weapons and intelligence; later serves as Dr. Kitakasukabe’s assistant. Known as Loli Pop in the Funimation version.

The inventor behind Action Mask’s equipment, replaced by Professor Kitakasukabe in some adaptations. Called Doc in Funimation dub.

The robotic nemesis of Action Mask leading the Black MekeMeke Group, accompanied by two lesser variants.

Members of Black MekeMeke Group

• – female leader with a heart-shaped head covering.
• – chimpanzee admiral with a son named Yankikki.
• – humanoid resembling a praying mantis.
• – iguana-like humanoid swordsman.

Commander of the Sparrow Group encountered during the "Action Mask Fever" storyline, revealed as Mimiko’s missing brother under brainwashing. Known as Flying Pecker in the Funimation dub.

{{nihongo|Richard von Tsubainbach|リヒャルト・フォン・ツバインバッハ|}

The chief antagonist of Sparrow Group and "Action Mask Fever" arc, a mad scientist and former classmate of Professor Gō. Called Dr. Hitlerclone in Funimation dub due to his German accent and appearance.

{{nihongo|Baron Flower|}

A gallant villain admired by Misae and Himawari for his handsome depiction. Referred to as The Deflowerer in Funimation dub.

Spin-off manga figures

• Misato Yashio – tokusatsu enthusiast rescued by Action Mask.
• Bal – ghostly assistant enabling transformations.

{{nihongo|Kantam Robo|}

Shinnosuke’s favored mecha anime parodying Gundam, comprised of a main robot and smaller pilot robot. Known as Psycho Robotico or Robo Grinder across various dubs.

{{nihongo|John Yamada|}

Human partner aiding Kantam Robo with piloting and transformations.

{{nihongo|President Gilkilos|}

The principal villain of Kantam Robo, head of the Midnight Secret Society.

{{nihongo|Kaizam Robo|}

Older brother and rival to Kantam Robo working under President Gilkilos.

SHIN-MEN team

• Fire SHIN-MEN Gou – lethargic member wielding fire powers.
• Wind SHIN-MEN Hyuu – leader endowed with wind abilities.
• Iron SHIN-MEN Can – iron-bodied shapeshifter.
• Water SHIN-MEN Sui – water-powered prankster.
• Plant SHIN-MEN Nyoki – plant-powered but reliant on water member.

{{nihongo|Piroshi|}

Ramen shop owner who looks after Gou due to his laziness.

Additional characters

• Motohisa – child fascinated by westerns and ninja films pursuing Nene.
• Atsushi Kutsuzoko – truck driver husband appearing solely in manga.
• Kyuji Oda & Kyousuke Nigariya – undercover cops posing as father-son (or gay couple in Funimation dub) investigating drugs.
• Momo Ishizaka – daughter of Midori and Junichi appearing only in manga.
• Matsu Matsuzaka & Take Matsuzaka – Ume’s elder sisters competing for suitors.
• Magical girl parodies including Mari-chan and Moe-P with Kazama secretly admiring them.
• Shirimarudashi – fictional monster toy parodying Godzilla.
• Shinobu Sakai – college student frequently losing jobs due to Shinnosuke’s mischief.
• Kenta Musashino – Shinnosuke’s kendo instructor portrayed as paranoid in Funimation dub.
• Razaya Dan – news anchor viewed by Misae.
• Usuto Yoshii – renowned manga artist neighbor inspired by series creator Yoshito Usui.
• Yoshito Usui – creator of the series making cameo appearances.
• Kuriyo Urima – door-to-door saleswoman whose appearance frightens children, resulting in poor sales.
• Nene’s stuffed bunny used for venting anger, occasionally coming alive under red moonlight.
• Shinko-chan – future girl resembling yet contrasting Shinnosuke.
• Shin Godzilla – antagonist defeated when Shin-chan employs chemical attack.