In BL (Boys' Love) works, the roles of "seme" (top) and "uke" (bottom) are incredibly significant.
In particular, the concept of "total bottom" (sou-uke) plays an important role in many BL stories.
But what exactly does "total bottom" mean? What kind of characters are more likely to fall into this role?
In this article, we’ll objectively explain the features of a "total bottom" character.
{tocify} $title={Table of Contents}What is a Total Bottom?
"Total bottom" refers to a character in BL works who consistently takes the role of uke, while multiple other characters take on the role of seme.
For instance, if a story features pairings like A×B, C×B, and D×B, then character B would be considered the "total bottom."
This means that the bottom role is fixed to a particular character, while the top role changes among different partners—this is the defining trait of a "total bottom."
Typically, each pairing exists in its own storyline, and it is rare for character B to be portrayed negatively for having relationships with multiple tops.
Instead, the charm of a "total bottom" lies in exploring the different romantic dynamics that B shares with various tops.
Characteristics of Total Bottom Characters (Past Trends)
The characteristics of total bottom characters have evolved over time.
If we were to describe the total bottom characters of the past in a word, it would be "feminine men."
Specifically, characters with large eyes, short stature, and a "pretty boy" look were often portrayed as total bottoms.
In early BL works, the seme was typically a "super darling" (spadari)—a tall, capable character who excels at both work and household chores.
Therefore, total bottom characters tended to have traits that made them easily identifiable as the uke, primarily based on their appearance.
Characteristics of Total Bottom Characters (Current Trends)
In recent BL works, the stereotype of "large eyes mean they must be the uke" has diminished.
It's now common to see tall, muscular men taking on the bottom role.
Of course, pretty boys are still sometimes portrayed as bottoms, but these stereotypes are less rigid, and the diversity of BL has significantly increased.
The defining feature of current total bottom characters is a shift from "visual focus" to "relationship focus."
In other words, the dynamics and roles between characters have become key factors in determining whether a character will be portrayed as a total bottom.
Character Types Likely to Become Total Bottoms
Certain patterns and traits are often found in total bottom characters.
These traits are based on their roles and positions within the story.
Below, we will explain specific examples of characters likely to be portrayed as total bottoms and the reasons behind this.
Main Characters or Leaders
Main characters are most likely to become total bottoms, especially in fanfiction.
Since protagonists often interact with many other characters in the original work, they have a greater chance of being approached by different potential partners.
This "number of relationships" makes protagonists more likely to be portrayed as total bottoms.
For instance, Luffy from 'One Piece' or Naruto from 'Naruto' often find themselves depicted as total bottoms in fanfiction due to their many interactions with other characters.
Similarly, group leaders are also likely to become total bottoms since they interact closely with all group members.
For example, Erwin Smith from 'Attack on Titan' is often portrayed in fanfiction as a total bottom because of his strong connections with various members of the team.
Characters Without Close Relationships
Lone wolf types also tend to become total bottoms.
Since they don’t have any particular close friends, it's easy for fans to imagine them paired with a variety of characters.
These characters are often portrayed as cold and solitary, which can create an anticipation of them "eventually warming up," leading to their depiction as total bottoms.
For instance, characters like Toru Amuro from 'Detective Conan' or Sosuke Aizen from 'Bleach' are often paired with many others, making them common choices for total bottom roles.
Popular Characters
Popular characters are more likely to become total bottoms.
This is because many fans create different pairings, making diverse coupling combinations possible.
For instance, Satoru Gojo from 'Jujutsu Kaisen' or Tanjiro Kamado from 'Demon Slayer' are highly popular and often depicted as total bottoms, regardless of their visual traits or relationships, leading to many different pairings created by fans.
Why Total Bottom Characters Are Popular
Total bottom characters are popular due to their "rich relationships" and the "wide range of imagination" they inspire.
No matter how much we categorize them, the driving force behind the creation of total bottom characters is ultimately the passion of fans who want to see BL stories centered around these specific characters.
The diverse character settings and deep relationships in BL works are a major appeal for fans, and we can expect to see more and more characters depicted as total bottoms in the future.
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