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“Lazarus” is one of the most talked-about anime releases of 2025. Directed by Shinichirō Watanabe and produced by the renowned studio MAPPA, this original sci-fi action series has captivated fans with its intense storyline and dynamic characters.
The story centers around a powerful drug called “Hapuna,” created by a brilliant scientist named Skinner. After its global success, Skinner suddenly disappears—only to reemerge three years later with a chilling message: everyone who has taken Hapuna will die in 30 days unless they find him and obtain the vaccine.
To stop the impending global catastrophe, an elite team called “Lazarus” is assembled. Let’s dive into the team and the key characters that drive this thrilling anime.
- A breakdown of each core character in the anime Lazarus
- The unique traits, backgrounds, and roles of the team members
- Insight into the antagonists and supporting cast behind the story
Meet the Core Members of Team Lazarus
Axel Gilberto – The Parkour Prodigy with a Wild Streak
Axel, a 23-year-old from Brazil, is the physical powerhouse of the team. Known for his incredible athleticism and parkour skills, he can leap across rooftops and scale skyscrapers with ease. Despite his criminal record—an 888-year sentence due to repeated prison breaks—he’s charismatic and thrives on danger.
Doug – The Cool-Headed Genius with a Fiery Heart
Doug, a 32-year-old from Nigeria, is the brain of the operation. He may come off as cold and analytical, but his sense of justice runs deep. Once a physics major, he punched his racist dean and was expelled. He now uses his intellect to calculate strategy and guide the team.
Christine – The Bold, Gun-Wielding Big Sister
Christine (nicknamed “Chris”) hails from Russia and brings firepower and attitude to the squad. With her confident, no-nonsense personality and expert handling of firearms, she’s a reliable backbone in high-stakes missions. Her open-hearted, rough-around-the-edges charm keeps the team grounded.
Leland – The Drone Specialist with a Mysterious Past
At 19, Leland is the youngest male member, born in Canada. He controls multi-functional drones used for scouting and support. A bit of a loner and social media addict, his unassuming appearance hides a more complicated home life and sensitive heart.
Eleina – The Shy Hacker Known as “Mad Screamer”
Eleina is a 15-year-old tech prodigy from Hong Kong. Though quiet and introverted, she’s a legendary hacker whose alias “Mad Screamer” strikes fear into cyber systems everywhere. With her portable hacking gear and holographic tools, she’s the team’s digital ace.
Key Figures Behind the Scenes
Hersch – The Enigmatic Team Commander
Hersch is the woman calling the shots from behind the curtain. Cool-headed and highly strategic, she keeps Lazarus running smoothly under immense pressure, though much about her past remains a mystery.
Abel – NSA Director and Shadow Supporter
Abel is the director of the U.S. National Security Agency. With access to top-level intel and military resources, he provides political and logistical backup for Lazarus—though his motives may not always be clear-cut.
Enemies, Allies, and Complex Connections
Skinner – The Genius-Turned-Antagonist
Once hailed as a saint-like innovator, Skinner is now the main antagonist. This Turkish-born scientist holds three Nobel Prizes and developed Hapuna for the good of humanity. But after witnessing the world’s disregard for sustainability, he vanished—only to return as a global threat.
Jill – Axel’s Trans Friend from Prison
Jill is a transgender woman and Axel’s old acquaintance. After leaving prison, she became the de facto leader of a homeless community. With deep insight into Axel’s past, she plays a key emotional role in his arc.
Claude Klein – Doug’s Former Mentor with a Dark History
Klein was once a prestigious academic and Skinner’s research partner. Driven by envy, he falsified data and was expelled from academia. Now homeless, he holds critical knowledge about Skinner’s early work and motivations.
Bilinda – Skinner’s Grandmother and Moral Compass
Bilinda raised Skinner after he lost his parents. Living in Istanbul, she’s famous for her homemade baklava and serves as a rare glimpse into Skinner’s human side—before the world saw him as a villain.
What Makes the “Lazarus” Cast So Compelling?
A Multinational Cast with Deep Backgrounds
One standout element of “Lazarus” is its diverse team, representing cultures from Brazil to Hong Kong. Their different values and histories add complexity and realism to the story, while also promoting global inclusivity.
Personal Skills and Backstories Drive the Plot
Each member’s unique abilities—from Axel’s parkour to Eleina’s cyber-warfare—play directly into the missions. Their personal traumas, motivations, and bonds make every episode feel emotionally grounded and dramatically rich.
Rakeruma’s Thoughts 💬
Hey there! 😊 I just finished watching *Lazarus* and… wow. I’m still catching my breath!
Axel’s parkour scenes? Absolutely insane 😍—I couldn’t take my eyes off him. And Doug? Quiet, serious, but with that deep, smoldering vibe… totally my type. 🔥
What really got me though was Eleina. She’s only 15, but the emotional weight she carries and how she handles all that tech? Ugh, my heart! 💻💜 I just wanted to wrap her in a blanket and tell her everything’s gonna be okay.
This anime isn’t just action-packed, it *feels* real. The team feels like people you want to root for. If you’re into complex characters and high-stakes drama, *Lazarus* is an absolute must-watch! 💥
Final Thoughts on the World of “Lazarus”
High Stakes and Human Drama in Perfect Balance
With only 30 days to prevent mass death, the tension in “Lazarus” never lets up. But what really makes it shine is how it weaves emotional depth into its high-octane action. Viewers care about the characters as much as the outcome.
Characters That Leave a Lasting Impression
Each character stands on their own, with distinct roles, struggles, and appeal. Whether you’re in it for the action, the psychology, or the sci-fi setting, “Lazarus” offers something for everyone—and these characters are at the heart of it all.
- Lazarus is a sci-fi action anime created by Shinichirō Watanabe
- The story follows a team of elite agents racing to stop a global disaster
- Each character has a unique skill set and compelling backstory
- Skinner, the antagonist, hides a dark past and mysterious motives
- The series blends fast-paced action with emotional depth
Frequently Asked Questions ❓
Q. Where can I watch *Lazarus*?
A. You can stream Lazarus internationally on platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Crunchyroll (if available in your region), and Hulu in select countries. Check your local listings or platform availability for regional access.
Q. Is *Lazarus* based on a manga?
A. Nope! It’s an original anime created by Shinichirō Watanabe, the genius behind *Cowboy Bebop* and *Samurai Champloo*.
Q. Who is Axel? He seems intense!
A. Axel is a 23-year-old ex-con from Brazil with insane parkour skills and a thrill-seeking streak. Think of him as the team’s fearless front-runner.
Q. Is this show good for fans of sci-fi?
A. Definitely. It blends high-concept sci-fi with grounded, emotional storytelling. If you liked *Psycho-Pass* or *Ghost in the Shell*, you’ll feel right at home.
Q. Who’s your favorite character?
A. Honestly? It’s hard to choose! But Eleina really stands out—she’s this shy, brilliant hacker girl with purple eyes and serious emotional depth.
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What did you think of LAZARUS so far? 🌟
If you’re watching it, drop your favorite character or scene in the comments below 👇
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