
Celty Sturluson
Celty Sturluson |
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Kanji | セルティ ストゥルルソン |
Rōmaji | Celty Sturluson |
Age: | Unknown |
Birthday: | Unknown |
Height: | 174 cm (5’8.5″) (with helmet) |
Voice Actor | |
Japanese | Miyuki Sawashiro |
English | Kari Wahlgren |
Celty Sturluson (セルティ ストゥルルソン, Celty Sturluson), also known as The Black Rider or The Headless Rider, is one of the most iconic characters in Durarara!!. She is a Dullahan, an Irish fairy, who travels to Japan in search of her stolen head. Celty works as an underground transporter, using her supernatural abilities to deliver goods and evade danger. To conceal her headless state, she wears a distinctive black helmet and communicates through a PDA. She resides with Shinra Kishitani, her roommate and love interest, and is an active member of the Dollars and, later, Snake Hands.
Background

Appearance in anime
Celty hails from Irish folklore as a Dullahan, a headless fairy who traditionally rides a black horse while carrying her severed head. Her journey to Japan is driven by the theft of her head, a traumatic event that erases parts of her memory and leaves her in search of her identity. Despite her supernatural origins, Celty has adapted remarkably well to modern life, blending her mystical heritage with her role as a transporter in the bustling, chaotic city of Ikebukuro.
Throughout her journey, Celty grapples with the complexities of human relationships and emotions. Her love for Shinra and interactions with the citizens of Ikebukuro gradually transform her perspective on life, leading her to question whether regaining her head is truly necessary for her happiness.
Appearance
Celty’s most distinguishing feature is her lack of a head, which she hides under a sleek black motorcycle helmet. She wears a black bodysuit that complements her futuristic, enigmatic aura. Her motorcycle, Shooter, is a transformed familiar known as a Cóiste Bodhar, capable of turning into a horse or manipulating its form. Shooter is headless in all its guises, mirroring Celty’s own condition and symbolizing her connection to her Dullahan roots.
Personality
Celty is a reserved yet compassionate individual who values her relationships deeply. She often exhibits a quiet strength, balancing her supernatural prowess with a deep desire to connect with others. Though initially fixated on retrieving her head, her experiences in Ikebukuro lead her to prioritize her newfound friendships and love over her past identity.
Celty is also curious and adaptive, with a fondness for modern technology, particularly her PDA, which she uses to communicate. She enjoys online chatting and quickly becomes a part of the city’s social fabric. However, she remains wary of her Dullahan nature, fearing how humans might react to her true form.
Role in the Story
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Searcher for Her Identity
Celty’s quest for her stolen head drives much of her narrative arc. Her search intersects with various factions in Ikebukuro, including the Yagiri Pharmaceuticals and the Dollars, entangling her in the city’s chaotic power struggles. -
Protector and Transporter
As an underground transporter, Celty uses her skills to navigate Ikebukuro’s underworld, often transporting illegal or dangerous goods. Her abilities, such as summoning shadows and creating tangible forms, make her a formidable protector and an invaluable ally. -
Romantic Partner
Celty’s relationship with Shinra Kishitani is a significant aspect of her story. Despite her initial reluctance, Celty falls deeply in love with Shinra, whose unwavering admiration helps her embrace her life in Ikebukuro. Their dynamic offers a mix of humor, tension, and heartfelt moments, showcasing Celty’s growth as she learns to accept herself. -
Key Player in Ikebukuro’s Chaos
Celty’s supernatural abilities and unique presence make her a central figure in the city’s complex web of alliances and rivalries. Her connections to the Dollars, her interactions with Shizuo Heiwajima, and her clashes with Izaya Orihara highlight her pivotal role in the story.
Relationships
Shinra Kishitani
Celty’s closest companion and love interest, Shinra is fascinated by her Dullahan nature and deeply supportive of her. Their relationship is built on mutual understanding and affection.
Shizuo Heiwajima
Shizuo shares a deep respect for Celty, often seeking her advice or assistance. Their friendship is one of mutual trust and camaraderie.
Izaya Orihara
Celty views Izaya with suspicion due to his manipulative nature and his involvement in the theft of her head. Their dynamic is marked by tension and distrust.
Mikado Ryuugamine
As a member of the Dollars, Celty aids Mikado during critical moments, offering her support and guidance.