Despite all he has suffered throughout the story of My Hero Academia, Deku is known for being one of the series’ happiest and most cheerful characters. His desire to become a Hero who can save everyone with a smile helped him overcome even the harshest of situations. Yet, the kind young man who would always offer others a smile seems to be the one in need of help.

After the events of the Final War arc, Deku’s signature smile and joyful attitude seem to be missing. Not even his friends seem to be able to make him enjoy his days, as seen in chapter #425 of the manga. Izuku may need a little reminder of why he became a Hero to recover his smile and achieve the happy ending he deserves.

The War Left a Lasting Effect on Deku’s Psyche

Deku Has Only Smiled Once Since the End of the War

Soon after the devastating war between Japan’s Heroes and the Paranormal Liberation Front, Deku left U.A. In chapter #306, the young Hero revealed that he felt responsible for those who died, as All For One was looking to get his Quirk. Before that, Deku had often demonstrated guilt over circumstances out of his control, such as Mirio losing his Quirk or the death of Sir Nighteye. Izuku is incredibly selfless, always putting others above himself. This is both his greatest strength as a hero and his biggest flaw. Izuku may be blaming himself for those who died during the war.

This was already hinted at in chapter #424, in which Midoriya looked saddened by his inability to save Shigaraki and help him overcome his past trauma. Since then, the young man has only smiled once, and even then, that gesture was more to comfort Bakugo than genuine happiness. Deku’s interactions with his friends in chapter #425 strongly hint at the young Hero being conflicted by the results of the war. He may be blaming himself for everyone who died or got injured during the war. Deku needs the support of his friends and loved ones now more than ever.

My Hero Academia’s New Likely Villain Could Help Deku Recover His Smile

Deku May Need to Be Reminded of Why He Chose to Become a Hero

Near the end of chapter #425, a mysterious character made its debut in the My Hero Academia manga. While nothing is revealed about this individual’s allegiance, it is heavily implied that they are set to become the series’ new villain. Still, this new antagonist is likely not going to become a major threat, seeing as the series is already in its epilogue. It is a common theory among fans that this new villain will be used as an example of how the new Hero Society will work. Instead of condemning and abandoning villains, heroes will work to save them.

If this is the case, Deku could regain his lost smile while fighting to save his new opponent. It could be during his battle against this villain that Deku is reminded of his reason for becoming a hero. He wanted to be someone like All Might, someone who could save everyone with a smile on his face. By helping this new enemy let go of their hatred, anger, or disgust with Hero Society, Deku could take the first step into letting go of his regret.

Although Deku refuses to accept it, he has become one of history’s greatest heroes. Despite this, he seems to be one of the most affected by the losses suffered during the Final War arc of My Hero Academia.