Warning: massive spoilers for Attack on TitanWho dies in Attack on Titan's ending? This question is the most important as the series finale looms near. And in an anime as brutal and shocking as Attack on Titan has proven to be, absolutely no character is safe, no matter how popular.

It would not be a stretch to characterize Attack on Titan as a war anime. Underlying the trials and tribulations of individual characters is the story of the conflict between the people of Marley and the Eldian people of Paradis Island that has lasted for hundreds of years. Naturally, throughout that conflict, countless people on both sides have lost their lives including many surprising characters like Marco and Sasha. The story's willingness to kill off even popular characters leave many unsure of who will actually die in Attack on Titan's finale.

Related: Attack On Titan Saved Its Most Gut-Punching Twist For the Very Last

Does Eren Die in Attack on Titan's Ending?

Eren touching Historia's hand Attack on Titan

The most notable and shocking death of the finale is Eren's. Eren has been present throughout the story as both a hero and a villain, and regardless of what some may think of him, he is the absolute center of the story. Accordingly, his death is palpable and, depending on the fan's attachment to him, one of the most gut-wrenching deaths in the series. After Eren causes the Rumbling and kills roughly eighty percent of the world's population, Mikasa and Armin have no choice but to kill their friend. While Armin uses his Colossal Titan Powers to combat Eren's horrific Founding Titan, Mikasa breaks in to the monster's head and decapitates him, finally putting an end to Eren Yeager.

Does Mikasa Die in Attack on Titan's Ending?

Mikasa Ackerman tugging at eren's scarf Attack on Titan

Given Attack on Titan kills Eren, one may expect that Mikasa and Armin would die as well, but luckily this isn't the case. After Mikasa kills Eren, the Rumbling ends, and she is able to survive unscathed. However, Mikasa is clearly deeply affected by having to murder her childhood friend. Mikasa never truly forgets him and even after she settles down and has a family she continues to visit his grave and cherish the scarf he gave her all those years ago. While this is a rather bittersweet ending for Mikasa, she does ultimately live a long life after Attack on Titan's final battle.

Does Armin Die in Attack on Titan's Ending?

Armin Arlert looking hopeful in Attack on Titan

Although Armin doesn't die in Attack on Titan's finale, much less is known about his final fate. Armin survives the Rumbling just like Mikasa and is the one that takes credit for killing Eren. A flash forward three years after the battle shows that Armin has become an ambassador negotiating peace between Paradis and the outside world. This is a perfect role for Armin in the post-Rumbling world as it lets him use his intelligence for the common good while also letting him see the world.

Does Reiner Die in Attack on Titan's Ending?

Reiner in Attack on Titan Season 4

Outside those main characters, the big questions surround the fates of other popular characters, with Reiner chief among them. Luckily Reiner, and Annie, Gabi, and Falco make it out alive, as well as Survey Corp Levi, Connie, Jean, and Historia. Unfortunately, as the latest installment of Attack on Titan's anime showed, one of the greatest casualties is Hange Zoë who sacrifices their lives to slow the Rumbling's advance.

No doubt, fans of Attack on Titan hope that their favorite characters will survive. However, with the understanding that the series is coming to its end, the history of the anime makes clear that some of the remaining cast will die. Despite how tragic Attack on Titan's end is, it's actually surprising just how many characters make it out alive.