Chrollo thoughts.
Sometimes I wonder if I’m the one mischaracterizing Chrollo - but then I rethink.
First of all, this isn’t hate. I’ve read many blogs on Tumblr where Chrollo is portrayed that way, and honestly, I don’t mind. In fact, I often enjoy those posts - I wouldn’t read them otherwise. (And there‘s nothing wrong with interpreting a fictional character a certain way, especially if you‘re the one who writes about them!)
So, now that that’s clear, I’d like to share my opinion. If you don’t relate, feel free to stop reading here.
Chrollo is an intelligent, incredibly cunning character - and above all, emotionally detached.
He tries to hide his emotions (the opposite of Hisoka, which is why I like their dynamic: Chrollo is someone who goes to great lengths to suppress or conceal his emotions. Hisoka, on the other hand, is all theatricality. He’s expressive, chaotic, and seemingly ruled by impulse - but underneath that flamboyant exterior, he’s emotionally hollow. One hides something behind nothing, and the other disguises nothing behind everything.)
Back to Chrollo’s emotional detachment: I highly doubt he’s ever been interested in anyone romantically or sexually. I’d even estimate his body count to be zero. It simply doesn’t fit his character to expose himself to that kind of vulnerability - no matter the reason.
And what about his kiss count? I’d say the same. Chrollo probably doesn’t feel comfortable, safe, or stable enough to engage in those kinds of intimate acts. Besides, some people consider their first time (or even their first kiss) special, and I highly doubt Chrollo would want anyone to have that “special first” with him. Not that he cares, but it’s more about what it represents.
What I’m trying to say is this: Chrollo is a complex character, often mischaracterized simply because he’s good looking. It’s never implied that he uses his looks to manipulate anyone, just that he’s handsome.
If you look at the Yorknew arc with Neon, he acts like a bodyguard. Not once do you get the sense that he’s romantically interested or has intentions beyond stealing her ability (like intercourse). He doesn’t flirt with her or anyone else in the entire series (manga included), and he never initiates personal conversations beyond what’s necessary to steal abilities.
No, Chrollo does not actively charm Neon or anyone else in canon. If anyone feels “charmed” by him, it’s purely incidental, not intentional. He doesn’t use his looks to seduce anyone - not in the anime, not in the manga. The idea that he seduces or charms people for their abilities is pure fanon.
Sex seems foreign to Chrollo. He doesn’t see the use in it. He doesn’t want anyone to see him that vulnerable - physically (being naked) and mentally (since intercourse isn’t just physical). The same goes for kissing, though I think he might see it symbolically - maybe a forehead kiss as a goodbye. (Not a casual goodbye, but as a last farewell when someone dies.)
Romantic acts and sex involve direct physical and emotional vulnerability — two things Chrollo actively avoids. He doesn’t want to expose himself that way, not even as a tool.
Sleeping with or kissing someone for an ability would be deeply out of character. He’s too detached, too in control, and sees his body as something to master, not leverage.
(I love yandere stories and want to write some in the future, so that would be the exception - but only then. If Chrollo ever wanted someone as his “darling,” it would take a lot of time for him to come to that point. Romantic acts would happen, sure, but he will need time for this since it’s completely new for him. Chrollo only ever read about intimacy — never lived it — because he’s never seen the appeal.)
For me, Chrollo is probably the least likely person to ever sleep with someone - not just for abilities or information, but in general. He’s read about it countless times, and that’s been enough for him. If he were ever desperate or pent-up (which would be rare), he has his hand.
He’s not cold just for aesthetic reasons - he is deliberately inaccessible, emotionally untouchable, and probably uninterested in traditional intimacy or connection.
Authors note:
Phew, quite the text. I guess it’s clear that Chrollo is one of my favorites. Please, if you have any questions about my thoughts - feel free to ask!
-jupiter