Attack On Titan: Who Was Nanaba? The AOT Character You Missed

Sabryna Marks Jr. 22 May 2025

Is it possible that some of the most compelling characters in "Attack on Titan" are often overlooked due to the show's focus on its core cast and the brutal nature of its storytelling? The Survey Corps' veteran soldier, Nanaba, a figure of quiet strength and unflinching loyalty, is a prime example of a character whose impact resonates far beyond her limited screen time.

Nanaba, a member of Squad Mike, demonstrated exceptional skill and composure in the face of overwhelming adversity. Her presence, though brief, left a lasting impression on those who encountered her. While the series is renowned for its grand battles and the development of its central figures, the narrative's structure sometimes leads to lesser-known characters fading into the background, their contributions easily forgotten amidst the chaos.

Characteristic	Details
Name	Nanaba
Kanji	ナナバ
Rōmaji	Nanaba
Race	Human
Gender	Female
Birthday	June 30th
Height	172 cm
Weight	59 kg
Status	Deceased
Affiliations	Survey Corps
Debut (Manga)	Attack on Titan Volume #7, Chapter 27
Debut (Anime)	Attack on Titan Episode #18
Japanese Voice Actor	Asami Shimoda
English Voice Actor	Lydia Mackay
Noted Relationships	Squad Mike, Gelgar (Supervised recruits with her)
Key Traits	Loyal, Calm, Skilled, Veteran Soldier

Reference: While there is no single official comprehensive website dedicated solely to Nanaba, a wealth of information about her can be found on the Attack on Titan Wiki, a reliable source for details on characters, events, and the overall story of the series.

Like Eren and many others within the series, Nanaba was a dedicated member of the Survey Corps. She wasn't a part of Captain Levi's Special Operations Squad, but rather served under Squad Mike. Her role, though not always central to the main plotlines, was vital in maintaining order and offering stability within the ranks.

Nanaba's calm demeanor was one of her defining features. She possessed a quiet strength, rarely speaking unless necessary. She was capable of giving orders to newer recruits with authority, demonstrating her leadership abilities. This was not just a character trait, but a practical necessity within the Survey Corps, where survival depended on efficiency and the ability to make difficult choices.

As a veteran soldier, Nanaba was well-acquainted with the horrors of fighting against the Titans. Her ultimate fate came during the intense Battle of Castle Utgard, a pivotal moment in both the manga and anime versions of "Attack on Titan". Her death, like those of other supporting characters, serves to highlight the show's unforgiving world and the ever-present threat of Titan attacks.

In the French translation, Nanaba is described as a soldier from the Exploration Battalion, and together with Gelgar, she was the officer supervising the group of recruits trapped in Utgard Castle. The translation emphasizes her role in the group's organization and her shared responsibility in handling the recruits. Her eventual consumption by a Titan underscores the constant danger the soldiers face.

Nanaba's physical appearance is also a part of her character. She is described as a tall and slender woman, with short, blonde hair and light blue eyes. She was often seen in her Survey Corps uniform and the accompanying cloak, a visual representation of her commitment and integration into the military structure.

The emotional impact of her death resonated with fans. While the fate of Levi's squad was undoubtedly impactful, the deaths of Miche and his squad, including Nanaba, hit particularly hard for many viewers. Her final moments, particularly her words "no! I wont do it again!", offer a tragic glimpse into the character's past, and a suggestion of potential abuse. The implication, though subtle, adds a layer of depth to her character, and provides potential insights to why she decided to dedicate her life fighting against Titans.

When the trailer for season 2 came out, fans started calling her "blonde Levi," because of the similarity in appearance. This recognition speaks to the impact she left during the show's initial run. Nanaba was introduced as one of the strongest members within the Survey Corps, yet she dies without achieving more onscreen. This illustrates the harsh reality of war in the "Attack on Titan" universe: even the strongest can fall unexpectedly.

The relationship between Nanaba and the other characters offers more perspectives on the story. The interactions of characters like her and Gelgar with the younger recruits provide a glimpse into the structure of the Survey Corps. These characters, despite their importance, often receive less attention than main ones.

Nanaba's words, as she was being torn apart by the Titans, are especially telling. The line "no! I wont do it again!" hints at a painful past. This insight into her past life adds to the tragedy of her death, and allows viewers to feel more for her character. It's a moment of vulnerability that makes her character more than just a soldier. It humanizes her in the face of unimaginable horror. It also suggests that she may have sought refuge and purpose within the Survey Corps, escaping her abusive past.

Section Commander Miche Zacharias and Nanaba were made aware of Commander Erwin Smith's plans and were placed in charge of the suspected scout recruits at the time of the Wall Rose invasion. This further highlights their roles as leaders within the Survey Corps. She was among the soldiers who were already veterans of the scout regiment before the fall of Wall Maria. Nanaba, with Gelgar, were instrumental in the recruits' initial training and guidance.

While "Attack on Titan" showcases many characters and storylines, it is the depth of characters like Nanaba that create the emotional core of the story. Her actions, her quiet strength, and her tragic fate make her a character that is not easily forgotten, even when her time on screen is limited.