Popular manga series are often adapted intoanime. It’s no surprise, but during the process, writers and creators face a unique challenge — how to pacea long-running storyacross hundreds of episodes without running ahead of their source material? This is where filler episodes come in.
The term ‘filler’ is not necessarily limited to anime. It refers to content that is added specifically to pad out running time between major plot arcs, and is most commonly used when a manga is adapted into anime. On one hand, filler episodes can be a dreadful addition for fans who are eagerly waiting fortheir favorite series to develop further. But when the same scenario is given to a skilled writing and directing team, the side adventures become opportunities to further enhance the overall vibe of an anime.
No series illustrates the use of filler content better thanPokémon. Across two decades, the anime focused and expandedthe scope of Ash and Pikachu’s journeyway ahead of the manga. While some fans fondly remember original filler episodes, others feel that the plot would’ve looked richer without them. When done right, filler episodes are a chance to peel back layers of characters and settings in a low-key way. This list celebrates 10 anime series with top tier filler episodes, and why they’re worth your time.
10Boruto: Naruto Next Generations (2017 - present) — 124/293 42% Filler Episodes
The Fourth Shinobi World War has finally ended, and Konohagakure is thriving in all areas, from prosperity to technology. Boruto Uzumaki is a young shinobi with a strong desire to surpass his legendary father, Naruto. Having inherited Naruto’s demeanor and skills, he’s looked upon as a prodigy and is met with only high expectations, which turns Baruto into an arrogant fighter. In the process of experiencing adventures and mishaps, his relationship with Naruto worsens.
Filler Worth Your Time?
Rather than advancing the main plot at breakneck pace,Boruto: Naruto Next Generationfeatures a huge amount of standalone filler episodes that focus on character development and relationships. With Boruto, Sarada, and Mitsuki taking center stage, these episodes provide glimpses into their daily lives. The anime has 124 fillers out of a total of 293 episodes, and particularly, there’s one Mistuki arc where he disappears and his friends relentlessly pursue him, which is absolutely compelling to watch.StreamBoruto: Naruto Next Generationon Hulu.
9Dragon Ball Z (1989 - 1996) — 38/291 13% Filler Episodes
Afterhis adventures as a rambunctious child, Goku has grown up and has a wife and child. He and his friends must face a new set of enemies, including Raditz, who presents himself as Goku’s long-lost brother, and Vegeta, who would become one of Goku’s greatest rivals and friends. Along with friends and allies from the original series, Goku helps protect the Earth from villains who want to destroy it.
The martial arts sequences and in-depth character studies may not advance the beloved anime’s story, but they are still considered a very drawn-out part of the plot. It’s episodes such as the Other World Tournament which provide the filler in fun what-if scenarios. There aren’t many either, only about 38 of the 291 episodes can be considered true “filler” content. From comedic interludes and extensive training scenes, to Goku reuniting with old friends (and always arriving late), to unexpected character interactions, the fillers have everything you didn’t think you wanted.StreamDragon Ball Zon Funimation.
8Inuyasha (2000 - 2004) — 35/193 18% Filler Episodes
On her 15th birthday, Kagome Higurashi is mysteriously transported back in time to feudal Japan. Knowing she is in possession of the magical Shikon Jewel, it is impossible for Kagome to stay there any longer. But when she meets a half-demon named Inuyasha, who mistakes her for a maiden he resents, the two set out to find the rest of the jewel before it can be used for evil. They battle demons and uncover clues, makingInuyashaan immersive and adventurous anime overall.
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The anime became even more popular and rewarding thanks to the moments that slow its pace. There are only 35 out of the 193 episodes ofInuyashathat are filler, and theycelebrate the characters and their interactions with a lot of care. Sure, they do not help the main plot in any way, but through their focus on characters and their past connections, the investment in the story increases and the entire atmosphere becomes more interesting.StreamInuyashaon Netflix.
7Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters (2000 - 2004) — 91/225 40% Filler Episodes
Middle school student Yugi Mutou may be weak in physique, but his affinity towards games surpasses his fear of being bullied by those stronger than him. He owns an ancient Egyptian artifact containing a puzzle, and when he solves the puzzle, he is granted a wish. As Yugi taps into the magic, a new personality awakens within him, and he eventually learns to hone his dueling skills while being an everyday teenager.
Here’s the thing —Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monstershas a rocky reputation forstraying away from the mangaand featuring more filler episodes than many other anime series, at 91 out of 225 episodes. However, its cheerful atmosphere, compelling arcs, and creative lessons provide a delightful contrast from edge-of-your-seat series. Whether it is the Virtual World arc or the Grand Prix arc, they never lose sight of the central theme of the show and provide insight into the rich world of dueling and strategy.StreamYu-Gi-Oh!on Tubi.
6Gintama (2006 - 2018) — 22/369 6% Filler Episodes
Adapted from the manga illustrated by Hideaki Sorachi,Gintamatakes you to feudal Japan, where aliens known as the “Amanto” have taken control of the cities and forbidden all samurai to practice their art. Amidst it all is Gintoki Sakata, an eccentric silver-haired man who refuses to surrender to their rules and roams around the street with his wooden sword, helping people in the strangest ways.
Gintamahas a unique sense of humor, andits comedic episodes are fan-favorites. The filler episodes, only 22 out of 369 in total, often take advantage of that aspect and contribute to the main story. By using an abundance of parodies and references to other anime, manga, and real-life events, they provide a fresh take. Moreover, whileGintamais primarily a comedy, it has its fair share of emotional moments. The filler episodes delve into the backstories of the characters and make it even more magical.StreamGintamaon Hulu.
5One Piece (1999 - present) — 94/1087 9% Filler Episodes
One Pieceis a globally acclaimed anime. Running for 20 seasons, it centers around 17-year-old Monkey D. Luffy and his crew of pirates and hunters. Their goal? To find the famous titular treasure and become Pirate King. But Luffy and the party aren’t the only ones with that goal. As the Straw Hat Pirates acquire more members and enemies, the quests become more adventurous and perilous, and they face rogues and revolutionaries alike.
For an anime as popular and long asOne Piece, it isonly natural to have some filler. While not advancing the main voyage, the filler episodes of this anime remix famous arcs for fun takes. They are also scarce (59 out of a total of 1014) but they explore self-contained stories and add weight to secondary characters. One certain arc that runs for eight episodes sees the Straw Hat Pirates helping out a child named Apis. Fans adore these tangents because they make theOne Pieceuniverse more unforgettable.StreamOne Pieceon Crunchyroll.
4Bleach (2004 - 2012) — 163/366 45% Filler Episodes
InBleach, the main character is Ichigo Kurosaki, a teenager with the ability to see spirits. When he accidentally gains the powers of a Soul Reaper from Rukia Kuchiki, he’s expected to put them to use by protecting normal residents and the Soul Society from evil spirits known as “Hollows.” The anime isan astounding one, and it features battles between the most powerful Soul Reapers and increasingly menacing foes.
Known primarily for its stunning battle scenes and immersive storytelling,Bleachhas over a hundred filler episodes, and they’re undoubtedly top tier. The additional scenes offer unique perspectives and amplify pre-existing arcs. They give us more widened glimpses into the world of Soul Reapers. From Bount storylines to the Zanpakuto arcs, where spirited weapons form a rebellion, there is a directorial passion seen in the scenes that makes the episodes worth your time.StreamBleachon Crunchyroll
3Hunter x Hunter (1999 - 2001) — 5/92 5% Filler Episodes
12-year-old Gon Freecss aspires to become a Hunter, an elite professional fighter devoted to traversing uncharted grounds to track down artifacts and creatures alike. While Gon’s motive is to find his father, his ultimate goal is to hone his skill and unlock his hidden powers.Hunter x Hunterchronicles his rigorous training, the Hunter examination, and the intense battles against criminals and mysterious forces in this vast world.
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Hunter x Hunteralready has a dark plot made of a refreshing story and enriched ensemble. The fillers in the anime provide memorable vignettes by introducing new (albeit temporary) characters and giving them poignant roles. For instance, the main characters are taken to a hotel that they can’t afford, and they are offered the chance to hunt for treasure in nearby shipwrecks to pay the cost. The three filler episodes of treasure hunting here respect the source with their action-packed fights and exciting surprises.StreamHunter x Hunteron Hulu.
2Sailor Moon (1992 - 1997) — 98/200 49% Filler Episodes
Sailor Moonisa classic ‘90s animeabout Usagi Tsukino, a kindhearted teenage girl who can also transform into a pretty guardian. Possessing immense powers, she teams up with other Sailor Scouts, Ami, Rei, Makato, and Minako, and fights relentlessly to stop the malevolent Queen Beryl of the Dark Kingdom and her minions from taking over Earth.
Blending three beloved genres — romance, comedy, and action — this anime charts one girl’s magical journey of triumphing over darkness through love and friendship. With 98 fillers out of 200 episodes,Sailor Moonis a charming show that never lets its secondary story hinder the main plot.
Some fans argue that the episodes that occur outside of the Sailor Scouts’ adventures are dragging, but the truth is that the show follows a monster-of-the-week formula, so it is somewhat designed for filler. And during these episodes, the characters undergo a lot of development. Moreover, the fillers also emphasize everyday moments in Usagi’s normal school life, which is crucial to the feeling of the show.StreamSailor Moonon Hulu.
1Naruto (2002 - 2007) — 90/220 41% Filler Episodes
The popularity ofNarutoin the anime world has no bounds. The premise of the series is quite well known — Naruto Uzumaki is a hyperactive kid with a desire to become the greatest ninja in Konohagakure. He enrolls in the Ninja Academy to learn new techniques, and in the process, he makes several friends and faces formidable rivals. As sinister forces threaten his land, Naruto must train even harder to protect everything from destruction.
About half ofNarutohas filler arcs. While these extended shots do not progress the Shinobi storyline, the bonus content showcases, in depth, what makes its world so beautiful and compelling. The reasonNaruto’sfillers are considered top tier is because of the way they are balanced. From heartwarming episodes thatestablish relationships between fan favorite charactersto the beautifully animated fight sequences, they remind us just whyNarutois one of the best anime of all time.StreamNarutoon Prime Video.
