10 OG Naruto Characters Who Could Return in ‘Shadow Rising’

The announcement of Naruto: Shadow Rising, a new manga drawn by series creator Masashi Kishimoto, has given longtime fans another reason to get excited about the Hidden Leaf Village. Although the first teaser features Naruto Uzumaki, Sasuke Uchiha, Sakura Haruno, and Kakashi Hatake, the story’s supporting cast remains a mystery.

Several beloved characters from the original series deserve another opportunity to shine, whether through new missions, unexpected alliances, or personal challenges. From Shikamaru Nara’s responsibilities as Hokage to Tenten’s underrated weapons expertise, these 10 familiar faces from Naruto could make exciting additions to the upcoming manga.

1 Shikamaru Nara Could Help Naruto Navigate New Threats

Shikamaru Nara has come a long way from the lazy genin who considered everything troublesome. After serving as Naruto’s trusted advisor, he became the Eighth Hokage in the Boruto era. His intelligence and ability to plan several moves ahead make him a natural candidate for an important supporting role in Naruto: Shadow Rising.

If Naruto and Sasuke find themselves caught up in another dangerous conflict, Shikamaru could help uncover the bigger picture. Seeing him balance his responsibilities as Hokage with his loyalty to Naruto would also provide a welcome connection to the original series.

2 Sai Could Bring His ANBU Experience Into the Story

Sai joined Team 7 during Naruto’s search for Sasuke, initially struggling to understand the emotions that connected his new teammates. Over time, he developed genuine friendships and built a life beyond his conditioning under Danzo’s Root organization. As an experienced shinobi who later worked in Konoha’s ANBU, Sai could offer valuable intelligence and tactical support in Shadow Rising.

His background also leaves room for compelling character moments, particularly if the story introduces secretive organizations or enemies who operate from the shadows. Revisiting Sai would let Kishimoto explore how far he has come since his first appearance.

3 Hinata Hyuga Could Reclaim Her Place Beside Naruto

Hinata Hyuga has always been one of Naruto’s most devoted supporters, but her role became less prominent as the original story progressed. Her courage during Pain’s assault on Konoha remains one of her most memorable moments, while her relationship with Naruto gave her character a satisfying personal resolution.

In Shadow Rising, Hinata could become involved if a new threat puts her family or village at risk. She is also an accomplished member of the Hyuga clan, with the Byakugan and Gentle Fist techniques at her disposal. Her return could remind readers that her strength extends well beyond her relationship with Naruto.

4 Rock Lee Could Prove That Hard Work Still Matters

Rock Lee won fans over by proving that a ninja could become formidable without relying on ninjutsu or genjutsu. Under Might Guy’s guidance, he devoted himself to taijutsu and pushed his body beyond its limits, even after suffering serious injuries during the Chunin Exams. His determination made him one of the original series’ most inspiring characters.

Although Boruto introduced his son, Metal Lee, Rock Lee himself has received relatively little attention compared with the central cast. Shadow Rising could give him another opportunity to demonstrate his mastery of hand-to-hand combat and remind readers why his perseverance mattered.

5 Gaara Could Return as a Trusted Ally of Naruto

Gaara’s transformation from an isolated child who lived for violence into the respected Fifth Kazekage remains one of Naruto’s strongest character arcs. Naruto helped him discover a different way to live, and their friendship eventually grew into a valuable alliance between the Hidden Leaf and Hidden Sand villages.

If Naruto: Shadow Rising introduces a threat that extends beyond Konoha, Gaara could play an important role in the response. His experience as a leader would also make him a natural counterpart to Naruto and Shikamaru. Bringing him back could reinforce the bonds that helped unite the shinobi world during the Fourth Great Ninja War.

6 Tenten Could Finally Get the Spotlight She Deserves

Tenten often found herself on the sidelines despite being a member of Team Guy alongside Rock Lee, Neji Hyuga, and Might Guy. Her expertise with weapons made her a distinctive fighter, and she demonstrated considerable versatility by carrying an extensive arsenal into battle.

The Fourth Great Ninja War also connected her to the Sage of Six Paths’ legendary tools, giving her abilities that could prove interesting in a new adventure. Shadow Rising could finally give Tenten a meaningful opportunity to contribute rather than leaving her as a familiar face in the background. A mission involving rare weapons would suit her particularly well.

7 Kiba Inuzuka Could Help Protect the Hidden Leaf Village

Kiba Inuzuka brought plenty of personality to the original series, combining his competitive nature with an unusually close bond with his ninja dog, Akamaru. Their coordinated attacks, including Fang Over Fang, made them a memorable part of the Konoha 11. Although Kiba never reached the prominence of Naruto or Sasuke, he remained a capable shinobi with sharp senses and a strong connection to his village.

If Shadow Rising features an investigation, a pursuit, or an enemy infiltrating Konoha, Kiba’s tracking skills could prove useful. His return would give another familiar member of Naruto’s generation a chance to shine.

8 Shino Aburame Could Uncover Secrets Others Miss

Shino Aburame was one of the original series’ most understated shinobi, often letting his insect-based techniques speak louder than his words. His kikaichu insects could track targets, gather information, and overwhelm opponents, making him useful in situations where brute force was not enough. Later, Shino became an academy instructor in the Boruto era, helping prepare a new generation of ninja.

That experience could make him particularly valuable if Shadow Rising explores the changing shinobi world. Whether investigating an unfamiliar enemy or mentoring younger characters, Shino could contribute in ways that suit his quiet personality and specialized abilities.

9 Tsunade Could Offer Naruto Advice When He Needs It

Tsunade played a crucial role in Naruto’s journey, returning to Konoha to become its Fifth Hokage and helping lead the village through some of its darkest moments. As one of the legendary Sannin, she combines extraordinary medical ninjutsu with devastating physical strength. Her experience also gives her a perspective few other characters can match.

While Shadow Rising has not confirmed a role for her, Tsunade could return if Naruto faces a crisis that demands her medical expertise or political judgment. Even a brief appearance could carry emotional weight, reconnecting the story with the leadership that shaped Naruto’s early years.

10 Konohamaru Sarutobi Could Step Into a Bigger Role

Konohamaru Sarutobi began as a mischievous child determined to surpass his grandfather, the Third Hokage, and Naruto became the unlikely mentor who inspired him. By the Boruto era, Konohamaru had grown into a jonin and served as the leader of Team 7, guiding the next generation through their own challenges.

His dream of becoming Hokage gives him a natural connection to Naruto’s legacy. Shadow Rising could explore how Konohamaru’s ambitions have evolved and whether he is ready for greater responsibility. A more substantial role would reward his long journey from a comic-relief youngster to a capable Leaf shinobi.

What are your predictions? We’d love to know them in the comments below.