How Dragon Ball's Vegeta evolved from brutal villain to earth's toughest hero

Whenever you think of anime rivals, there’s one man popping up at the top of your list — Vegeta from Dragon Ball. What once was a ruthless, cold-blooded space invader is now Goku’s most adorable companion and friend. Of course, it’s a big change—nothing short of complete. Fast forward a decade later and Arty is now one of the respected heroes of the series, a caring father, and a favorite not only in his home country but a fan favorite worldwide.So how did a power-obsessed violent space prince turn into a protector of Earth and a good guy? Vegeta's redemption is one of the greatest anime redemption tales ever—and it didn't take place overnight.When he was not yet a hero, Vegeta was the primary antagonist of the Dragon Ball Z show. He and his partner Nappa came to Earth during the Saiyan Saga with the goal of using the Dragon Balls to become immortal. Unlike Goku, who grew up on Earth and became a benevolent person, Vegeta grew up in a war-torn world. Vegeta was a proud, merciless, and violent person who only cared about brute strength.Vegeta was merciless—he even slaughtered Nappa, his sole ally, for not being strong enough. After engaging in a desperate fight with Goku, Vegeta had to retreat, gravely wounded. Yet instead of dying, Goku asked his friends to spare his life. That shock of mercy in an unexpected situation sowed the first seed of transformation in Vegeta's soul.Vegeta remained as self-centered and cruel a character throughout the Namek Saga, where he betrayed friends and pursued the Dragon Balls for his own purposes. But things changed when he fought Frieza, the tyrant who wrecked the Saiyan race.In a rare emotional moment, Vegeta broke down in tears, revealing that he was used and manipulated by Frieza his whole life. As he lay dying, he begged Goku to defeat Frieza and avenge their race. It was the first time Vegeta showed vulnerability—and fans saw he was more than just a killer. This scene was a huge turning point and marked the beginning of Vegeta’s path toward redemption.Vegeta remained on Earth, following the Frieza Saga—not because he was kind-hearted, but to train and become stronger. Gradually, he bonded with Bulma, the principal human character and a talented scientist. Bulma did not fear Vegeta. She retorted, teased him, and eventually tamed his tough character.Their unexpected romance resulted in the birth of their son, Trunks, and this new family provided Vegeta with something to guard. Though he never actually said it, it was apparent—Vegeta loved Bulma and Trunks dearly. He began to train no longer for pride, but for their protection. His ambitions changed, as did his heart.Goku and Vegeta were constant rivals throughout the series. They consistently motivated one another to be greater. But Goku never considered Vegeta a villain. He was impressed by his power and always had faith in Vegeta's ability to transform.This constant competition pushed Vegeta to change. He learned there was a better way to grow than by destroying things. Goku's compassion and faith in him provided Vegeta an opportunity to redeem himself, again and again. And secretly, that connection transformed him more than he realized.In Dragon Ball Super, Vegeta is no longer Goku's nemesis—he's one of the series' principal heroes. He battles on behalf of his family, his world, and even strangers. He trains more than ever before, even mastering new god-level abilities like Ultra Ego. But aside from power, what's admirable now is his character.Vegeta has protected Earth against gods, invaders, and monsters. He even put his life on the line during the Tournament of Power to protect his universe. One of his most dramatic moments is when he battles Beerus, the God of Destruction, after the god slaps Bulma. The old Vegeta would never have cared. But the new Vegeta? He was consumed by rage—not pride, but love.Vegeta's journey is not about fighting. It's about change, redemption, and being better than you were born to be. He began as an antagonist, became an anti-hero, and is now a household name as a figure of strength and transformation.Vegeta is now one of anime's greatest written character arcs today. He is the ideal adversary to Goku, not only in combat but in values as well. He illustrates that even the worst of individuals can have a purpose to improve.Want to see Vegeta evolve from villain to hero?You can catch Dragon Ball Z, Dragon Ball Super, and the latest additions on:All streams provide English dubs and subtitles for US and UK viewers.Vegeta's redemption from cold-blooded killer to loving member of a family is one of the most emotive tales in anime. His transformation is testimony that redemption can happen, even to those who have the most sinister histories.Ultimately, Vegeta might have begun by wanting to conquer the planet Earth—but now he's one of its greatest protectors.