Shōta Raidō
Shōta Raidō |
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| Kanji: | 来堂 章太 |
| Romaji | Raidō Shōta |
| Statistics | |
| Age: | 16 |
| Eye Color: | Black |
| Height: | 5’7″ |
| Portrayed by: | |
| Japanese: | Takuma Terashima |
| English: | Ben Balmaceda |
Shōta Raidō (来堂 章太, Raidō Shōta), commonly referred to by his surname Raidō (ライドウ), is the male protagonist of the manga Aharen-san wa Hakarenai and its anime adaptation. He is a high school student known for his kind-hearted, patient, and understanding nature. Raidō becomes a central figure in the story as he develops a close and supportive relationship with Reina Aharen, the female protagonist.
Though Raidō’s role is primarily as a supporting figure in Aharen’s journey, his relationship with her plays a key part in the narrative. Raidō’s ability to understand Aharen’s awkwardness and offer her the emotional support she needs makes him a cornerstone in her personal growth. As a result, Raidō’s character arc explores the themes of friendship, communication, and emotional connection.
Background
Appearance in Anime
Shōta Raidō is an ordinary high school student, though his personality and understanding of others set him apart. He attends the same school as Reina Aharen, where he becomes her close friend and eventually someone who plays a pivotal role in helping her navigate her social awkwardness. Raidō is able to see past Aharen’s outward shyness and awkward behavior, understanding the deeper challenges she faces in her interactions with others.
Raidō’s background is fairly typical, but his compassionate and empathetic nature enables him to offer the support Aharen needs, especially as she works through her social difficulties. While much of his personal life is not as extensively explored as Aharen’s, his willingness to help others, coupled with his calm and grounded personality, makes him a reliable character in the story.
Appearance
Shōta Raidō has a simple and unassuming appearance that reflects his laid-back and approachable personality. His features are not overly striking, but his friendly and warm expression makes him easy to connect with. He typically dresses in the standard school uniform, which suits his everyday role as a high school student. Raidō’s clothing and overall appearance are indicative of his calm and straightforward personality.
Unlike some of the other characters, Raidō doesn’t try to stand out through his looks; instead, he exudes a kind of quiet confidence that draws people to him. His facial expressions, often gentle and understanding, complement his role as someone who helps guide Reina Aharen through her awkwardness.
Personality
Raidō’s personality is defined by his patience, empathy, and understanding nature. He is not quick to judge others, and he often takes the time to understand people, particularly those like Reina Aharen, who struggle with social interactions. Raidō’s approach to relationships is built on kindness and a genuine desire to help others.
One of Raidō’s most notable qualities is his calm demeanor, which makes him a steady and reliable presence for those around him. While many would be frustrated with Aharen’s social awkwardness, Raidō is not only patient with her but also actively seeks to support her in overcoming her communication struggles. His emotional intelligence allows him to read situations with clarity and provide Aharen with the emotional support she needs.
Raidō’s character is a testament to the power of emotional understanding and quiet leadership, as he does not demand attention or recognition but instead simply offers help when needed.
Role in the Story
A New Friendship: Raidō’s story begins when he is seated next to Aharen, a girl who is quiet to the point of barely being audible. After misunderstanding her distant nature, he eventually realizes that Aharen simply has trouble gauging personal space and communication, and he makes an effort to get closer to her. This leads to an evolving friendship built on mutual support and odd, yet endearing, interactions.
Guardian of Aharen’s Peace:As the series progresses, Raidō becomes Aharen’s primary companion, helping her through daily school life and social interactions. He goes to great lengths to assist her from playing games with her to carrying her belongings often without complaint. His overly imaginative reactions and Aharen’s deadpan demeanor form the comedic backbone of the story.
Romantic Development: Though slow and subtle, Raidō’s feelings for Aharen begin to shift from friendship to romantic affection, and the story gradually explores this development. His confusion over his feelings, and the sincerity with which he tries to understand them, adds a layer of emotional depth to the series.
Relationships
Reina Aharen: Aharen is Raidō’s classmate and closest friend. Though they start as seatmates with little communication, they become inseparable companions, sharing quiet moments, humorous adventures, and growing affection. Raidō is deeply protective of Aharen and respects her individuality.
Mitsuki Ōshiro: Aharen’s childhood friend who initially mistrusts Raidō. After observing his genuine care for Aharen, Ōshiro warms up to him and occasionally interacts with him in her own awkward way.