Let's clear the air right away: Gohan is a beloved character from the iconic Dragon Ball universe, known for his incredible power-ups and complex family lineage. He is not, however, a character in the dark, psychological thriller Death Note. If you've been searching for information about Gohan's age within the world of Kira and L, it's possible there's been a mix-up, or perhaps a curious fan theory at play!
Instead, this super pillar hub is your definitive guide to understanding the ages of the compelling, morally ambiguous characters who do inhabit the gripping narrative of Death Note. From the brilliant minds locked in a deadly game of cat and mouse to the dedicated task force and the supernatural beings pulling the strings, character ages in Death Note aren't just numbers – they often reflect their maturity, their evolving roles, and the passage of time within the series' intense plot.
Unpacking Death Note's Timelines and Character Ages
Death Note unfolds over several years, featuring significant time skips that see characters mature, change, and sometimes meet their end. Understanding these chronological shifts is key to grasping the full scope of their development and impact on the story. We'll break down the ages of the most pivotal figures, exploring how their years shape their decisions and destinies.
The Brilliant Minds at the Center of the Conflict
At the heart of Death Note is the ultimate battle of wits between two extraordinary individuals, each believing they represent true justice. Their ages underscore their youthful genius and the immense pressure they operate under.
- Light Yagami: The Aspiring God of the New World
Light Yagami begins his journey as Kira at just 17 years old, a brilliant high school student whose discovery of the Death Note sets the entire cataclysmic plot in motion. By the series' end, after a significant time jump, he is 23, having cemented his persona as a formidable, ruthless figure. His youth at the outset highlights his idealism and subsequent corruption. If you want to delve into how his age impacts his transformation from student to "god," check out our detailed profile on . - L Lawliet: The World's Greatest Detective
L, Light's enigmatic and eccentric adversary, is introduced as a 24-year-old at the peak of his investigative prowess. He remains a critical figure until his untimely death at 26, leaving a void that future successors would struggle to fill. His relatively young age for such a world-renowned detective adds to his mystique and unparalleled intellect. For a comprehensive look at the life and timeline of this iconic character, explore . - Misa Amane: Kira's Devoted Follower
Misa enters the scene at 19, a vibrant model and actress whose infatuation with Kira drives many of the series' twists and turns. Her age, coupled with her Shinigami Eyes, makes her a potent, if sometimes volatile, ally for Light. Her story arc spans from 17 to 29, showing different facets of her devotion and vulnerability. Discover more about her journey and various ages in .
The Next Generation of Detectives: Near & Mello
Following L's death, the mantle of detective work is passed to his successors from Wammy's House, each bringing their unique approach to catching Kira.
- Near: The Calm Strategist
Near, first introduced at 17 after the five-year time skip, is L's logical and highly intelligent successor. His quiet demeanor and methodical approach contrast sharply with his predecessor's eccentricities and Mello's impulsiveness. To understand the intricacies of his youthful brilliance and his role in the final confrontation, read our dedicated article on . - Mello: The Driven, Impulsive Rival
Mello, another successor to L, is approximately 19 when he begins his independent pursuit of Kira after L's demise. His more aggressive and emotionally driven tactics set him apart from Near. His age reflects a burning ambition that sometimes overrides caution. Unpack the full story of his brief but impactful life in .
The Human Elements: The Task Force and Key Allies
Beyond the central conflict, a dedicated team of police officers and other individuals play crucial roles in both assisting and hindering the investigation.
- Soichiro Yagami: The Dedicated Father and Chief
Light's father, Soichiro Yagami, is 48 at the series' beginning, embodying the unwavering commitment of law enforcement. His age and experience provide a stark contrast to the youthful protagonists, and his unwavering belief in justice is a foundational element of the story. Explore his principled fight against Kira in . - Watari: L's Trusty Confidant
Watari, the founder of Wammy's House and L's loyal assistant, is 70 years old, representing wisdom and a deep understanding of the global landscape. His age signifies a lifetime of experience crucial to L's operations. Learn more about his silent but essential contributions in . - Touta Matsuda: The Evolving Officer
Matsuda starts as the youngest member of the Japanese Task Force at 25, often serving as comic relief but also showing surprising growth and courage. His youthful enthusiasm and eventual maturity make him a relatable character. For a closer look at his development, check out . - Shuichi Aizawa: The Steadfast Investigator
Aizawa is introduced around 34, a family man and dedicated police officer who consistently questions and challenges the unfolding events. His skepticism and loyalty provide an essential anchor for the Task Force. Discover his critical perspective in . - Kanzo Mogi: The Quiet and Observant Member
Mogi, at 30, is another key member of the Task Force, known for his stoic demeanor and sharp observational skills. His reliable presence is often underestimated. Dive into his contributions with . - Hirokazu Ukita: The Dedicated Officer
Ukita, aged 26, is another member of the Japanese Task Force whose dedication to the Kira case puts him in harm's way. His brief but impactful role highlights the dangers faced by those pursuing Kira. Understand his place in the team in .
Kira's Agents and Pawns
As the conflict intensifies, Light manipulates various individuals to further his goals, turning them into unwitting (or sometimes willing) participants in his grand scheme.
- Teru Mikami: The Zealous Follower
Mikami, introduced at 27 years old after the time skip, is a public prosecutor chosen by Light to wield the Death Note. His extreme devotion to Kira's ideals and his rigid sense of justice make him a terrifyingly effective tool. Uncover the depths of his fanaticism in . - Kyosuke Higuchi: The Greedy Kira
Higuchi, aged 32, becomes the third Kira after Light temporarily relinquishes the Death Note. His corporate ambition and misuse of the Death Note provide a different perspective on the power's corrupting influence. Learn about his short but critical tenure in . - Aiber: The Master Forger
Aiber, a professional swindler at 33, is recruited by L to infiltrate the Yotsuba Group, using his deceptive skills to gather intelligence. His pragmatic approach to the investigation offers a different kind of expertise. Discover his cunning methods in .
The Supernatural Beings: Shinigami
No discussion of Death Note characters would be complete without mentioning the Shinigami, the gods of death who introduce the Death Notes to the human world. Their ages are largely unknown, as they exist outside human concepts of time.
- Ryuk: The Bored Shinigami
Ryuk is the Shinigami who drops the Death Note that Light finds, primarily out of boredom. His ancient existence and detached amusement are central to the series' tone. While his age is unquantifiable, his perspective is millennia old. To learn more about his unique relationship with Light, visit our guide on . - Rem: The Protective Shinigami
Rem, another Shinigami, is distinctive for her strong emotional attachment to Misa Amane. Like Ryuk, her age is unknown, but her actions are driven by a profound, almost human, sense of loyalty and sacrifice. Delve into her compelling backstory and connection to Misa in .
The Lasting Impact of Death Note's Cast
While Gohan may not be a character within Death Note, the series is rich with complex, memorable individuals whose ages and development are intrinsically tied to its gripping narrative. From young geniuses burdened by immense power to seasoned professionals facing unimaginable ethical dilemmas, each character plays a vital role in the intricate dance between justice and chaos. Understanding their ages helps us appreciate the scale of their decisions and the psychological depth that makes Death Note a timeless masterpiece.