Is Android 17 a Girl in Dragon Ball?

In the expansive Dragon Ball universe, there are many memorable characters with unique designs and backgrounds, some of whom might be a bit confusing to fans at first glance. One such character is Android 17, a fan-favorite who appears in Dragon Ball Z and plays a significant role in Dragon Ball Super. However, many people wonder: Is Android 17 a girl?

Let’s dive into who Android 17 is, his backstory, and why he is often mistaken for a female character, despite being male.

Who Is Android 17?

Android 17, also known as Lapis, is one of the two androids created by the villainous scientist Dr. Gero in Dragon Ball Z during the Android and Cell sagas. His twin sister, Android 18, is another well-known android, and they were both created to be powerful, human-like weapons. In his first appearance, Android 17 is introduced as one of the main antagonists, wreaking havoc and later playing a major role in the Cell Saga as one of the catalysts for the creation of the infamous villain, Cell.

Despite being an android, Android 17 is very much like a human in terms of his thoughts, emotions, and personality. Throughout his journey in the Dragon Ball series, 17 grows from an antagonist to a hero, ultimately helping to protect the universe in Dragon Ball Super, particularly in the Tournament of Power arc.

Why Do People Think Android 17 Is a Girl?

Android 17’s appearance and demeanor can sometimes lead to confusion regarding his gender. Some reasons why people may mistakenly think he is a girl include:

1. Youthful and androgynous design: Android 17 is designed with a relatively soft, youthful appearance compared to some of the other more muscular, traditional Dragon Ball characters. He has long hair and is often shown in casual clothing, which gives him a more androgynous look. In the Dragon Ball Z series, he doesn’t necessarily have the rugged, masculine look typical of some of the other male characters.

2. Personality and calm demeanor: Android 17 is also calm and reserved, with a more neutral, unemotional personality compared to some of the more emotionally driven male characters like Goku or Vegeta. This sometimes leads people to mistakenly interpret his lack of exaggerated expressions as a more feminine trait, especially when compared to the more overt masculinity of characters like Trunks or Piccolo.

3. Appearance of his sister Android 18: Many fans first encounter Android 17 alongside his twin sister, Android 18, and the two characters share many similarities in terms of style and demeanor. Android 18 has a distinctly feminine appearance, and it’s easy to assume that Android 17 might share similar characteristics, especially considering the fact that both characters were created by Dr. Gero to be equal in strength and intelligence.

4. Unconventional character design choices: Dragon Ball is well-known for its exaggerated and often whimsical character designs, and this extends to Android 17. The long, loose hair, combination of feminine traits, and youthful appearance could make his gender less obvious to new viewers or those unfamiliar with the character's backstory.

The Truth: Android 17 is Male

Despite the confusion, Android 17 is definitively a male character. This has been confirmed multiple times throughout the series. While his androgynous appearance and calm demeanor may cause some fans to mistake him for a girl, the narrative consistently portrays Android 17 as a male. He is also referred to as "he" and "him" in both the Dragon Ball Z and Dragon Ball Super series.

Android 17’s role in Dragon Ball Super especially showcases his evolution from a villain to a hero, with him playing a pivotal part in the Tournament of Power arc. He is a major participant in the battle for survival, showing off his powerful abilities, intelligence, and calm strategy in the tournament.

Android 17’s Legacy in Dragon Ball Super

In Dragon Ball Super, Android 17 has a significant role in the Tournament of Power, a multi-universe battle royale where 17 represents Universe 7. His calm, strategic approach to combat and his natural resilience make him one of the key players in the survival of his universe. 17’s role in the tournament is widely appreciated by fans for his clever use of energy barriers, intelligence, and ultimately, his sacrifice for the greater good of the universe.

His actions during the Tournament of Power not only make him one of the strongest characters in the series but also show his depth as a character who is more than just a powerful android. By the end of the tournament, Android 17’s wish to restore the universes erased during the battle stands as a testament to his growth and transformation as a character.

Conclusion: Android 17 is Male, but His Role is Timeless

To sum it up, Android 17 is, without a doubt, a male character in the Dragon Ball franchise. His design and personality might confuse some fans into thinking otherwise, but his true gender is consistently confirmed within the series.

His development from antagonist to hero is one of the most interesting arcs in the Dragon Ball universe, and his actions in Dragon Ball Super cement his legacy as a key figure in the fight to save the multiverse. So, whether you’re a long-time Dragon Ball fan or a newcomer, Android 17’s evolution proves that appearances can be deceiving, and strength comes in many forms—whether it’s through raw power, intellect, or personal growth.

If you’ve been curious about the character or are still unsure of his gender, rest assured—Android 17 is a male, and his importance in the Dragon Ball series will continue to resonate with fans for years to come.