Edward Elric

Edward Elric is the main protagonist of the anime Fullmetal Alchemist (both the 2003 series and the 2009 Brotherhood adaptation, though Brotherhood is more widely regarded as the definitive version).

He is a young State Alchemist (the youngest ever, earning the title "Fullmetal Alchemist" at age 12) in the military of Amestris. Edward is short (around 155 cm / 5'1" as a teenager), with distinctive long golden-blonde hair worn in a braid, amber/golden eyes, and a red coat with the Flamel symbol on the back—his signature outfit that makes him instantly recognizable.

He lost his left leg and right arm in a failed human transmutation attempt to resurrect his mother when he was 11, and his younger brother Alphonse lost his entire body (his soul now bound to a suit of armor). Edward sacrificed his right arm to bind Al's soul, and later replaced both limbs with automail (advanced prosthetic limbs made of steel and other materials). These automail arms and leg give him a distinctive clanking sound and make him sensitive about his height (he gets extremely angry when called short or teased about it).

Personality-wise, Edward is hot-headed, impulsive, prideful, and quick to anger (especially over his height), but he's also deeply caring, fiercely protective of his brother Alphonse, and driven by a strong sense of justice and guilt. He refuses to kill unless absolutely necessary, values human life, and is determined to find a way to restore his and Al's bodies using alchemy. Despite his brashness, he's incredibly intelligent, a prodigy at alchemy (specializing in transmutation without a circle), and shows remarkable growth, maturity, and self-sacrifice as the story progresses.

In both anime versions, he's voiced by Rie Kugimiya (Japanese) and Vic Mignogna (English), with his voice capturing his youthful energy and explosive temper perfectly. He's widely regarded as one of anime's most iconic protagonists for his emotional depth, determination, and "never give up" spirit.