Within the 1990 Japanese anime series Robin Hood no Daibouken, the character known as John is more formally referred to as Little John. He serves as the leader of a small, fearless group of young bandits living in Sherwood Forest. Little John and his companions were forced to leave their previous lives behind and seek refuge among the trees to escape persecution and forced labor ordered by the cruel Baron Alwyn. His background is marked by a significant personal tragedy, as his own home was burned down by the baron's soldiers, an event that implies the loss of his family and fuels his deep-seated desire for justice.

In terms of personality, Little John initially appears gruff and clashing with the protagonist, Robin Hood. Their first encounter is stormy, as the two groups of outlaws find themselves in conflict. However, this bitterness quickly gives way to friendship when they recognize they share a common enemy and a similar fate as victims of the same corrupt system. Despite his toughness, Little John possesses a strong moral code and a sense of honor. He is, for example, aghast at the idea of robbing ordinary civilians who travel through the forest, considering it a dishonorable act. He is also deeply compassionate and acts as a father figure to his band of young outlaws, whom he considers his family and is fiercely protective of. His loyalty extends to teaching others, as he takes the time to train Marian in sword fighting.

Little John's primary motivation is the protection and well-being of his found family, as well as resisting the oppressive forces of Baron Alwyn and his allies. He is driven by a past trauma that fuels his resolve to stand up against the nobility that destroyed his home. His role in the story is that of a vital ally and local expert. He leads his own group of bandits, and while there is a formal deference to his leadership, the group often looks to Robin Hood for direction as well. John is instrumental in providing the knowledge and skills necessary for survival in the forest. He is frequently described as the "smart guy" of the group, possessing encyclopedic knowledge of the forest's every nook and cranny, as well as a deep understanding of the various lords and barons of England. This expertise makes him the primary strategist who construes plans and coordinates the band during missions.

Regarding key relationships, his most significant dynamic is with Robin Hood. After a rocky start, they become steadfast friends and allies, combining John's strength and local knowledge with Robin's bravery and idealism. He also has a romantic interest in Winifred, who is Robin's cousin. His relationship with his own right-hand man, Much, is also important, as Much serves as his most trusted subordinate. As a leader, his bond with the rest of his young bandits is paternal and strong.

Throughout the series, Little John shows development from a merely survival-focused outlaw to a more hopeful and proactive fighter for a better future, largely influenced by his friendship with Robin. He remains a reliable and "invincible" ally whose skills are indispensable to the group. A notable moment that highlights his emotional depth and paternal nature occurs in an episode where the bandits discover an abandoned baby. John forms a strong connection with the child and considers raising her as his successor, only to selflessly give her back to her mother, weeping as he does so. As for notable abilities, he is portrayed as an expert swordsman and a jack-of-all-trades, adept at planning, fighting, and maintaining group cohesion. His intimate knowledge of Sherwood Forest is perhaps his greatest asset, allowing the outlaws to navigate and survive in their hidden home effectively.