Death Note remains one of the most iconic 21st-century mystery anime so far more than a decade after it first aired, largely due to its thrilling, mind-bending storyline and unforgettable characters. L, in particular, is one of the most well-liked characters not only in the world of Death Note but in anime more generally. But what is L's real name in Death Note?
About L
L is a highly intelligent and very quirky international consulting detective who becomes involved in the plot of Death Note when prisoners start dying of heart attacks at an alarming rate due to Light's action.
L is perhaps one of the very few characters who are a match for Light's intellect, and the two have a very complicated relationship that becomes even odder when Light himself joins the team trying to hunt Kira, to draw suspicions away from himself.
Fans of Death Note love L, not only because of his intellect but also because of his memorable mannerisms, such as crouching instead of sitting, walking barefoot, and being sustained exclusively by sweet foods.
We won't spoil L's fate here in case any of our readers are still planning to watch Death Note for the first time, but it suffices to say that, since the beloved detective exits the anime a few episodes before the end, many feel that Death Note ended with him; that's how popular he is.
Related: Death Note Ending Explained
What is L's Real Name?
L's real name is L. Lawliet but he goes exclusively by L. This means that, even though we have a name for him, some components are still unknown.
The name Lawliet is never mentioned in the Death Note anime or manga, but for those who want to delve a little more deeply into the story, the information can be Death Note 13: How to Read, an encyclopedia-style companion guide.
Of course, it takes some time for L to even reveal his initial, as he mostly communicates with the world through his assistant, Watari, and, when he and Light meet, he initially introduces himself as Ryuzaki.
Names are important in anime and similar media. As is the case with C.C.'s real name in Code Geass, the lack of information about L's identity means that the character remains an enigma long after the ending of Death Note.
Related: What Happened to Misa in Death Note?
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