In a world where most people have a superpower, the boy who wants it most was born without one.
Most superhero stories begin with the power. My Hero Academia begins with a boy who has none and wants to be a hero anyway, and we think that is why its first season hits so hard.
The premise - Born without a Quirk
Most of the world is born with a Quirk, a superpower of their own. Izuku Midoriya is not, and all he has ever wanted is to be a hero like All Might, the greatest of them all.
He fills notebooks with hero analysis instead, and everyone, his classmate Katsuki Bakugo first, tells him to give up.
Why it works - He runs in before the pros do
In the first episode a villain traps Bakugo, and the professional heroes hold back. Izuku runs straight at it with nothing but his school bag.
That one choice, made with no power at all, is the whole show in miniature, and Yuki Hayashi's score lands it like a final round.
The verdict - Thirteen episodes, then you are in
Bones adapted Kohei Horikoshi's manga in 2016, with Kenji Nagasaki directing. The first season is thirteen episodes, and Porno Graffitti's opening “The Day” sets the tone.
If you want a hero story built on heart before strength, start with episode one.
Where to watch
My Hero Academia was listed on Hulu, Crunchyroll and Netflix in the USA when we last checked, in October 2026. Catalogues change by country and by month, so check the service where you are.
Shop the My Hero Academia collection
Liked My Hero Academia? This is where it leaves the screen: every My Hero Academia design we carry, in one place.
My Hero Academia Kimono Haori - Himiko Toga, Izuku "Deku", Shoto Todoroki & More$10.99
My Hero Academia Todoroki Deku Bakugo Plush Keychains$12.99
My Hero Academia Rumi Usagiyama Mirko Enamel Pin$18.99
My Hero Academia Led Light Box$19.99
My Hero Academia Ribbon Lanyard Keychains$9.99
My Hero Academia Acrylic Chibi Keychain$8.99
Source: the Anime Crush Anime Guide.
