Léo, also called Kimba in certain adaptations, is a white lion distinguished by piercing blue eyes and black-tipped ears and tail, with occasional depictions featuring russet or scarlet eyes. Born to Caesar and Snowene, his journey begins as a cub washed ashore near a human settlement. Raised by Kenichi, he learns human language and customs, enduring bullying that forges his resilience and shapes his vision for interspecies peace. Curious and idealistic in youth, he pioneers farming and education in the jungle, challenging traditionalist animals while evading poachers. Repeated human betrayals erode his trust, tempering his idealism with caution. Adopting the name Léo in adulthood, he evolves into a stern yet fair ruler, wed to Lyra (Kitty) and father to Lune and Lukio. His leadership pivots from diplomacy to protective action, engaging in combat when necessary—a stark contrast to his earlier pacifism. As a parent, he balances strict oversight with empathy, permitting Lune to venture independently despite dangers. A jungle plague forces him into uneasy collaboration with humans, culminating in a pivotal alliance with Dr. Mustache. The 1997 film concludes his arc with self-sacrifice: Léo impales himself to sustain the doctor, ensuring vital knowledge reaches humanity. His death cements a legacy of bridging divides through courage and sacrifice. Spin-offs diversify his portrayal—lighter manga depict domestic escapades and humorous conflict resolution, while darker narratives delve into aggression, exile, and identity struggles. Across iterations, his core endures: compassion, moral fortitude, and unwavering dedication to safeguarding his community. Physically, his design oscillates between anthropomorphic traits like trousers in early manga and naturalistic features in later works. Rust-colored manes occasionally appear in illustrations, though inconsistently, mirroring shifts in tone from whimsy to gravity. His narrative arc consistently navigates idealism versus pragmatism, fractured trust in humanity, and guiding future generations. From naive cub to pragmatic leader to sacrificial icon, his journey embodies growth, legacy, and the intricate costs of coexistence.