Chief Lion is an imposing anthropomorphic lion, towering over most characters with his muscular build and regal yet intimidating presence. His sharp, piercing eyes and majestic golden mane are symbols of his strength and dominance. Despite his outward appearance of grandeur, his demeanor and actions reflect his predatory and barbaric nature.

As the leader of the Shishigumi, Chief Lion is often seen in a sharp suit, a visual juxtaposition of his violent tendencies and his efforts to present himself as a sophisticated crime lord. His attire and powerful stance emphasize his role as both a leader and a fearsome predator.

Chief Lion is brutal, power-hungry, and unrepentantly sadistic. He relishes in the control he exerts over others, viewing weaker individuals—especially herbivores—as mere prey or tools for his benefit. His leadership of the Shishigumi is marked by a reign of fear, with his subordinates obeying him out of both respect and terror.

Though calculating and cunning, Chief Lion’s overconfidence and sense of superiority often blind him to the potential threats posed by those he deems weaker. This hubris ultimately leads to his downfall at the hands of Louis, a character he severely underestimated due to his herbivorous nature.

Leading the Shishigumi: As the head of the Shishigumi, Chief Lion oversees a criminal empire that thrives on fear and violence. Under his leadership, the group engages in illegal activities, including trafficking and consuming herbivores, showcasing the darker side of carnivorous dominance in Beastars.

Confrontation with Haru: Chief Lion’s actions become central to the Meteor Festival arc when Haru, a white dwarf rabbit, is kidnapped by the Shishigumi. He views Haru as nothing more than prey and plans to consume her in a grotesque display of carnivorous power. This act brings him into direct conflict with Legoshi, who mounts a daring rescue to save Haru.

Death at the Hands of Louis: Chief Lion meets his demise when Louis arrives during Haru’s rescue. In a shocking display of courage and defiance, Louis kills Chief Lion, symbolizing the triumph of intelligence and resolve over brute strength. This act not only ends Chief Lion’s reign but also sets the stage for Louis’ transformation into the new leader of the Shishigumi.

• Shishigumi: Chief Lion commands the loyalty of the Shishigumi, though his leadership is rooted in fear rather than respect. His death creates a power vacuum that is later filled by Louis, changing the group’s dynamic.

• Haru: Chief Lion’s treatment of Haru reflects his predatory and exploitative nature. Her kidnapping serves as a catalyst for the confrontation between him and Legoshi.

• Legoshi: Chief Lion views Legoshi’s attempt to rescue Haru as futile and mocks his efforts. Their conflict highlights the clash between Legoshi’s moral resolve and Chief Lion’s brute dominance.

• Louis:: Chief Lion underestimates Louis, seeing him as weak and insignificant due to his herbivorous nature. This miscalculation ultimately leads to his downfall, as Louis proves his strength and resolve by taking Chief Lion’s life.

Chief Lion’s reign as the leader of the Shishigumi represents the darker aspects of the predator-prey dynamic in Beastars, embodying the fears and prejudices that divide society. His brutal leadership and predatory worldview make him a formidable antagonist, while his death at the hands of Louis serves as a powerful statement about the strength of determination and intellect over physical dominance.

Although Chief Lion’s time in the series is short, his actions leave a lasting impact, catalyzing critical character developments for both Legoshi and Louis. His legacy endures through the transformation of the Shishigumi under Louis’ leadership, marking a shift in the group’s role within the world of Beastars.