Joe

Real full name: Shou Tanaka

Age: 22 Height: 6'1"

Joe is a relentlessly blunt, hyper-logical prodigy whose brilliance made him a licensed physician by the age of 22 after finishing school at only 16. His rare, headline-worthy success has made him wealthy enough to live alone in a luxury apartment on the rich side of town. One might expect someone so accomplished to be polished or conventionally stylish, but Joe instead dresses like a brooding gothic poet who just discovered eyeliner. He insists it is "fashion." Beneath his cold competence lies a deeply committed otaku, arguably even worse than Akira. Thanks to his money, Joe can buy any figure or collector's item he wants, and his vast anime collection is a constant source of envy. Though he acts above everyone else, he keeps spending time with the group because, in truth, they entertain him. He also quietly changed his name to "Joe" to seem more American and avoid being treated like an outsider.

Kenneth Schmersal

Age: 23 Height: 5'4"

Ken is a bitter little cynic who treats sincerity like a personal offense and cringes at any display of vulnerability. Whenever the others are enjoying themselves, Ken is usually close by to ruin the moment with some sharp, conniving remark. He desperately wants everyone to think he is above childish fun and far more "mature" than the rest, but usually just comes off like the school bully in a corny 90s movie. Much of it is obvious overcompensation for being only 5'4". In reality, Ken is far softer than he lets on. He secretly loves praise, guidance, tenderness and is an absolute sucker for romance. In private, he watches sappy movies like The Notebook and pretends he doesn't cry. He shares an apartment with Akira and pays the full rent and utilities himself, having long since been worn down into supporting his useless roommate.

Christoph Lowe

Age: 28 Height: 6'2"

Chris is an exchange student from a suburb outside Hamburg, Germany, who came to America after years of idolizing its television, movies, and pop culture. When his parents offered to fund schooling abroad, he eagerly accepted... only to discover that Americans were far louder, brasher, and more intimidating than he expected. Overwhelmed, Chris became painfully shy and hesitant to speak to anyone. Eventually, he met Akira and Ken at a local trading card shop, and against all odds, the three became friends. Though awkward and timid at first, Chris quickly proved himself warmhearted, dependable, and deeply caring toward those around him. As he grew closer to the group, his confidence slowly returned. He is gentle by nature, tries to stand up for what is right, and has a soft spot for anyone vulnerable. He also hides a sketchbook full of crudely drawn, scandalously dressed anthropomorphic characters, evidence of an artistic side he would rather keep secret. He currently lives in a dorm on campus.