Anime is filled with unforgettable moments that leave fans inspired, heartbroken, or completely thrilled. But for every epic showdown and tear-jerking farewell, there are scenes that make audiences wince, groan, or even skip ahead entirely. Whether it is poor writing choices, forced humor, or awkward character beats, certain scenes are so cringeworthy they stick in viewers’ memories for all the wrong reasons.
Some of these moments attempt comedy but cross into secondhand embarrassment. Others are supposed to feel emotional or empowering but instead come off hollow or forced. Either way, they disrupt the immersion of otherwise well-loved stories. From shōnen legends to modern favorites, here are eight anime moments so painfully awkward they are almost impossible to rewatch.
Mineta’s Perverted Behaviors in My Hero Academia
For a series that balances intense action with heartfelt character development, My Hero Academia often stumbles whenever Minoru Mineta is on screen. His running gag as the class pervert grows stale quickly, reducing him to little more than a one-note joke. Instead of charming comic relief, his antics frequently derail the mood of otherwise meaningful episodes.
What makes Mineta’s moments so hard to rewatch is how repetitive and forced they feel. Scenes of him spying on girls in the bath or making inappropriate comments stand out awkwardly against the show’s themes of heroism and growth. Fans often wish the spotlight would shine on other characters rather than wasting precious minutes on his uncomfortable antics.
Sakura Claiming She’s Equal to Naruto and Sasuke in Naruto: Shippuden
Sakura Haruno’s journey is meant to highlight her growth from a background character into a skilled kunoichi. However, the infamous moment where she claims she has caught up to Naruto and Sasuke falls flat. Instead of showcasing genuine strength, the declaration feels unearned, especially considering how often she is sidelined during crucial battles.
This scene is cringey not only because it highlights her overconfidence, but also because fans know the reality of her situation. Naruto and Sasuke’s growth is portrayed as nearly godlike, while Sakura still struggles to leave a lasting impression. The moment was likely intended to empower her, but instead it became a point of mockery in the fandom.
Mikasa’s Over-the-Top Obsession with Eren Yeager
Mikasa Ackerman is one of Attack on Titan’s most respected characters, admired for her combat ability and loyalty. Yet her fixation on Eren often crosses into uncomfortable territory. Scenes where she clings too tightly, ignores her own independence, or blindly supports him regardless of his choices diminish her otherwise commanding presence.
These moments are difficult to watch because they contradict the strength that defines Mikasa. Instead of standing as her own person, she becomes consumed by Eren, to the frustration of many fans. What should feel like touching loyalty often comes across as smothering obsession, reducing one of anime’s most iconic warriors into a lovesick stereotype.
George Glooman Embarrasses Himself in Spy x Family
Spy x Family thrives on balancing absurd humor with heartfelt family dynamics. But George Glooman’s overblown antics in front of his classmates remain one of the series’ most awkward episodes. His exaggerated whining, constant self-pity, and melodramatic attempts to gain sympathy stretch the joke far beyond its breaking point.
What makes this scene cringe-inducing is how long it lingers. Instead of a quick gag, the episode forces viewers to sit through George’s humiliation until the comedy loses its charm. While Spy x Family normally nails comedic timing, this instance demonstrates how overindulgence in a single gag can push fans into secondhand embarrassment rather than laughter.
Yui Calling Kirito and Asuna “Mama” and “Papa” in Sword Art Online
Sword Art Online attempts to pull on heartstrings with Yui, an AI child who bonds with Kirito and Asuna. But the moment she starts calling them “Mama” and “Papa” lands awkwardly for many viewers. Instead of feeling wholesome, the sudden shift feels artificial and strangely forced within the context of a life-or-death survival game.
The cringe factor comes from how quickly the emotional weight is pushed. Kirito and Asuna barely have time to develop their relationship before suddenly being cast as parents to a digital child. The melodrama rings hollow, and the intended tear-jerking moment instead sparks discomfort. For many fans, it is one of Sword Art Online’s most unintentional low points.
Hinata Crashing the Winter Training Camp in Haikyuu!!
Hinata Shoyo is beloved for his energy and determination, but his decision to crash Karasuno’s winter training camp leaves viewers squirming. Sneaking in without an invitation, he embarrasses himself in front of his peers and coaches. What should be a triumphant display of determination instead becomes a reckless act that makes fans want to look away.
The scene is difficult to rewatch because it undermines Hinata’s hardworking persona. Rather than earning his spot, he forces himself into a situation he hasn’t prepared for. While Haikyuu!! often celebrates ambition, this moment crosses into cringe territory, showing how overzealous behavior can damage rather than inspire respect.
Naruto Farting on Kiba During Their Battle in Naruto
The battle between Naruto and Kiba in the Chunin Exams should be remembered for strategy and grit, but instead it is overshadowed by a juvenile gag. In a bizarre twist, Naruto uses an accidental fart to gain an advantage, leaving viewers scratching their heads. The moment derails an otherwise thrilling fight with bathroom humor.
What makes this scene cringey is how unnecessary it feels. Naruto’s victories are often built on clever tactics and sheer willpower, yet this instance reduces his resourcefulness to a cheap joke. For fans invested in the Chunin Exam arc’s intensity, the gag not only feels out of place but actively undermines the stakes of the battle.
Boruto Getting Caught Cheating During the Chunin Exams in Boruto
The Chunin Exams return in Boruto with high expectations, but the arc is marred by Boruto’s decision to cheat. Using scientific ninja tools, he wins matches through deception rather than skill. When his secret is revealed, it creates one of the most cringe-worthy moments in the series, especially given his lineage as Naruto’s son.
The embarrassment comes not just from Boruto’s actions, but from how far they betray the themes of the original series. Naruto fought tirelessly to prove himself despite overwhelming odds, yet Boruto undercuts that legacy with dishonorable tactics. Watching him get caught is painful because it highlights his immaturity in the most humiliating way possible.
- Created by
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Masashi Kishimoto, Ukyo Kodachi, Mikio Ikemoto
- First Episode Air Date
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April 5, 2017
This story originally appeared on Screenrant
