Master Roshi

Born on March 20 in Age 430, Master Roshi grew up as the younger brother of Fortuneteller Baba. He trained under the legendary Master Mutaito, a warrior who lived centuries before the main events of the series. Roshi showed prodigious talent, eventually surpassing his master in many respects, though his hedonistic nature often clashed with his discipline. He later became the teacher of Grandpa Gohan and the Ox-King, establishing the Turtle School. When Goku and Krillin came to him seeking training, Roshi took them under his wing, setting the stage for the young Saiyan's journey. [edit]

Roshi is a bundle of contradictions. On one hand, he is a wise and patient mentor, dispensing timeless martial arts philosophy and protecting Earth with his life. On the other, he is an incorrigible lecher, constantly peeping at women and scheming for a glimpse of underwear. This dual nature makes him both endearing and problematic. His pervy antics have drawn criticism in modern times, but his genuine care for his students and his willingness to sacrifice himself for the greater good reveal a deeply honorable core. He values discipline, hard work, and the purity of martial arts, even if he often forgets his own lessons when a pretty face walks by. [edit]

In the early Dragon Ball, Roshi is the ultimate authority, guiding Goku and Krillin through rigorous training and entering them in the World Martial Arts Tournament. He plays a key role in defeating the Red Ribbon Army and later Piccolo Jr., though his power begins to show its limits. By the Saiyan Saga, he is largely sidelined, his Evil Containment Wave failing against Raditz. The Cell Games see him easily defeated, highlighting the immense gap between him and the new generation. Dragon Ball Super gives him a resurgence: he participates in the Tournament of Destroyers and the Tournament of Power, where he uses the Kaioken (briefly) and the Evil Containment Wave. His most poignant moment comes when he sacrifices himself to save Android 18, proving that even an old pervert can be a hero.[edit]

Master Roshi is one of the most recognizable characters in anime, his bald head, beard, and turtle shell instantly identifiable. He represents the wise-but-flawed master archetype, influencing countless characters in shonen manga. Fans appreciate his comic relief and his role as a mentor, though his pervy antics have sparked debate in modern times. His sacrifice in Dragon Ball Super was widely praised, showing that he still had depth. He remains a popular figure in crossover media, from Death Battle to video games, and his Kame House has become a beloved location in its own right.[edit]