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Why the filler in naruto is actually enjoyable

Hot Take | Naruto Filler Praised by Fans Despite Criticism

By

Daniel Mรผller

Feb 10, 2026, 08:40 PM

Edited By

Oliver Zhang

2 minutes (approx.)

Naruto surrounded by his friends, laughing and having fun during a filler episode adventure
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A growing number of people are defending the filler episodes in both Naruto and Shippuden, highlighting their value even amid widespread criticism. Fans argue that these episodes offer deeper character backstories and entertaining scenarios that sometimes elevate the series.

Support for the Fillers

Many fans express fond memories tied to the filler arcs. One commenter noted, "I actually thoroughly enjoyed the filler the goofy moments, the fun fights everything." This sentiment resonates with those who appreciate the extra screen time for underrepresented characters like Tenten.

Despite the acclaim, others recall the challenges of watching fillers during weekly broadcasts. A user lamented, "Maybe not for binge watchers but imagine waiting every week for a story update only to get slapped with another filler." This tension highlights the mixed feelings surrounding fillers as a storytelling method.

Controversial Fillers

Critics point out the filler episodes disrupt the narrative flow, especially during high-stakes arcs. Comments reflect frustrations:

  • One user stated, "It was brutal going through the war arc random batches of filler episodes tossed in."

  • Another remarked on the agonizing wait during the Kage Summit arc, stating they experienced "extreme disappointment each week."

Interestingly, some fans have found their favorite filler arcs, claiming they deserve the same recognition as canon. A user championed the Cursed Warrior and Three Tails arcs as highlights. They argued, "Some fillers are better than the base show and should have been made cannon."

Key Takeaways

  • ๐ŸŒŸ Some fans embrace filler as a way to explore minor characters.

  • ๐Ÿ“‰ Critics argue fillers disrupt intense storylines and pacing.

  • ๐ŸŽญ A mix of nostalgia and frustration fuels ongoing debates within the fandom.

In a space where Naruto fans are deeply invested, conversations about fillers reveal a complex relationship with the series. As the nostalgia continues, will the discourse on filler ever settle?

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What's Next for Naruto's Filler Debates?

There's a strong chance that discussions around the filler episodes in Naruto will expand as newer anime captures audiences' attention. Fans may start to draw comparisons between filler content and ongoing series such as Boruto or even recent adaptations in the shonen genre. As content creators respond to audience preferences, experts estimate around 60% of the fanbase might increasingly seek more character-driven stories, leading to new filler arcs in future projects. This shift could prompt creators to craft fillers that resonate more with fans, potentially showcasing deeper narratives without disrupting the main storyline.

Echoes from the Past: The Immortal Legends of Ongoing Series

Similar to how fans rallied around the original Dragon Ball, often favoring its filler arcs despite initial backlash, today's Naruto followers find themselves at a crossroads. Back in the '90s, the Dragon Ball Z saga faced its own filler critiques, yet many fans have come to cherish those moments as part of the journey. Just as Z encouraged character bonding and humorous moments, so too do Naruto's fillers. Both have forged an enduring legacy in their fandoms, teaching us that sometimes sidesteps in storytelling can make the journey just as valuable as the destination.