The Avatar: The Last Airbender Character You Are Based On Your Zodiac Sign
If there was ever genuine due cause to impose the structure of the zodiac on a television show, this is it. "Avatar: The Last Airbender," Nickelodeon's critically acclaimed animated series, is all about the four elements: water, earth, fire, and air. The Western astrological zodiac is ruled by the same elemental forces, with all 12 of its distinct personality types grouped up into water signs (Cancer, Pisces, Scorpio), earth signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn), fire signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius), and air signs (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius). It's a match made in comparative heaven! So it only makes sense to take a look at the memorable cast of characters in "Avatar" in the similarly elemental context of the zodiac.
Co-created by Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko, "Avatar: The Last Airbender" centers around the journey of a 12-year-old named Aang, who's discovered in a block of ice by two siblings, Katara and Sokka. Once he's revived, the siblings learn that Aang is the Avatar, a reincarnated figure who's uniquely capable of mastering all four of the bending arts — manipulating water, earth, fire, and air. Together, along with a gaggle of allies picked up along the way, the trio strive to put an end to the Fire Nation's world-dominating war, restoring balance and peace to their land.
So, whether you're curious to see which "Avatar" character you share your sign with or if you want to see where your personal favorite from the series lands, read on for our breakdown of which "Avatar" character fits each sign in the zodiac.
Aries: Princess Azula
Aries is, far and away, the fieriest of the fire signs. They flit about like a restless flame, blow up with the ferocity of a wildfire, and leave a trail of ashy, smoldering chaos in their wake. So it's fitting that, of all the firebenders in "Avatar: The Last Airbender," no one is fiercer than Azula, who is absolutely an Aries.
The princess of the Fire Nation and the only daughter of Fire Lord Ozai, Azula is a natural-born leader. As the Fire Nation's hunt for Team Avatar becomes more and more frantic, Azula takes the reigns with her two best friends, Mai and Ty Lee, in tow. Simmering beneath her cunning ploys and strategic gifts, the princess is fueled by an explosive temper. Fits of un-channeled rage are one of the hallmarks of the first sign in the zodiac. Like Azula, Aries do what they want and do things their way. Aries responds to obstacles by barreling straight through them (this sign is represented by the ram for a reason). Likewise, for Azula, everything is a game that can be won, whether it's capturing the Avatar, humiliating Long Feng, or dominating a beachfront game of kuai ball.
At their worst, Aries is an impulsive, impatient, and hotheaded sign who never apologizes for their lack of temperance. Azula certainly represents some of the worst qualities of those born between March 21 and April 19. She's a fiery spirit with an intensity that, pointed in the wrong direction, expresses itself as sadism, aggression, and cruelty.
Taurus: Toph Beifong
Is there something a little on the nose about calling an eartbending master a Taurus? Perhaps. But truth be told, the kinship between Toph Beifong and the second sign in the zodiac is strong as a rock.
Blind since birth with the uncanny ability to "see" via the vibrations in the ground, Toph is inextricably linked to the earth. And the connection informs not only her earthbending (and her invention of metalbending) but her personality too. Stubborn and uncompromising, Toph is direct, says what she means, and isn't afraid to get confrontational when anyone dares oppose her. Toph faces her problems (and her enemies) head-on, without trickery or ambiguity.
Despite her sheltered upbringing and her frustrations with her parents, Toph is totally secure in herself. She's brutally honest, especially with her close friends in Team Avatar. She's rock solid, as a good earthbender (and a good Taurus) should be. Taurus, the bull, is unyielding and steadfast. And Toph's loyalty to Aang's cause is similarly inflexible. She won't budge for anyone or anything. For Toph, as with those born between April 20 and May 20, life is all about all or nothing, no in-between. You can always count on Toph. And you can always count on a Taurus.
Gemini: Aang
Aang, the titular last airbender, is the Avatar of his time — the one person capable of mastering all four bending arts and uniting the divided nations. And in addition to being able to manipulate air, water, earth, and fire, Aang is a Gemini. There's no doubt about it.
First off, Geminis are multifaceted. Their modality, which represents the sign's ability to move and evolve with time, is mutable. As a result, Geminis like Aang flit between ideas, people, and subjects (elements too) with ease. Aang may struggle with some elements, like earth, more than others, but he's naturally amenable to changing things up by virtue of being the Avatar, eventually mastering all four (as well as the ancient art of energybending).
Due to their curious and versatile nature, Geminis are adept at proliferating ideas and translating information between different groups of people. This is basically Aang's bread and butter — facilitating an intellectual exchange between the nations and bringing the world to a place of empathy and understanding. Like those born between May 21 and June 21, Aang is a total goofball and brimming with charisma. And while he (ever the Gemini) can tend to use his humor as a crutch, his air-headed demeanor and ability to make fast friends is absolutely genuine.
Cancer: Princess Yue
Sentimental, intuitive, deeply connected to the moon? Yep, that's Princess Yue to a tee. In the final chapters of "Book One," Team Avatar finally arrives at the stronghold of the Northern Water Tribe. It's there that they meet Princess Yue, the striking, white-haired daughter of Chief Arnook. Like those born between June 22 and July 22, Princess Yue is defined by her depth of feeling — by her kindness, gentle touch, and good-natured concern for those around her.
While not all Cancers would go so far as to sacrifice themselves and literally turn into the moon, their ruling planet plays an indispensable part in their lives. (Yes, the moon isn't a "planet," but you'll have to take that up with ancient astronomers). Just as the moon controls the tides, Cancers like Yue are in a constant state of give and take. They're often weighed down by their own sorrows and the sorrows of those around them, which, for Yue, manifests as melancholic duty to her father, her tribe, and to the Moon Spirit that gave her life.
While Yue isn't thrilled about her arranged marriage to the egotistical Hahn, like a typical Cancer, she falls in love easily, quickly developing feelings for the smitten Sokka. Cancer is a sign that thrives on the security of close relationships, which are the foundation of their sense of well-being. And while Yue's instant connection with Sokka is strong, her life-long kinship with the moon is stronger.
Leo: Sokka
Leos are the ultimate showmen. They're big, bold, warm, and charismatic, with magnetic personalities and ambition to spare. Sokka, brother to Katara and one of the founding members of Team Avatar, is a Leo through and through. Those in the fifth sign in the zodiac are ruled by their hearts, leaping into situations by virtue of their radiant confidence and strong gut instincts. While Sokka is certainly a sharp-witted strategist, he often acts before he thinks, a key trait that foils the best intentions of many a Leo.
Sokka is fueled by an intense (and very Leo-like) desire to feel important and valued as the only non-bender in Team Avatar. Luckily, those born between July 23 and August 22 have an unrelenting appetite for growth. And looking at Sokka's trajectory over the course of the series, his adaptability and self-actualization are truly impressive. He goes from a close-minded, over-protective stick in the mud to a leader worth following. Leos love nothing more than being recognized for their authentic selves, and through his adventures and teachable moments over the series (more than a few thanks to his girlfriend, Suki), Sokka is able to become the best version of himself possible.
Virgo: Long Feng
Right off the top, it's probably worth underlining that not all Virgos are manipulative supervillains. But, like any of the signs in the zodiac, Virgo has a dark side. And that dark side is well represented by Long Feng, the grand secretariat of Ba Sing Se and the leader of the Dai Li. Long Feng is the close, personal advisor of the sheltered Earth King Kuei, using his political position to silently stage a coup while suppressing information about the Hundred Year War.
Even if you aren't a super corrupt Earth Kingdom politician, those born between August 23 and September 22 do have a tendency to be all work and no play. Long Feng also represents the darker side of Virgo's intense perfectionism. Where other Virgos may keep neat spaces and enjoy alphabetizing their bookmarks bar, Long Feng is attempting to control and curate the reality of an entire kingdom, suppressing the existence of an invasion and annihilating any blemish, inconsistency, or potential threat. Virgos could learn a thing or two from Long Feng's downfall. In the end, his attempts to achieve total control all on his own are no match for teamwork (even if said teamwork consists of Azula and her vast armies).
All that said, Long Feng does represent some, uh, less evil Virgo traits. He's diligent, cunning, and has a talent for pragmatism. We know you're not all conniving control-freaks, Virgos. Just remember to stay humble and remember to chill out every now and then.
Libra: Uncle Iroh
Congratulations, Libras, you are the most likable sign in the zodiac. This naturally means that you share an astrological allegiance with the most likeable character in "Avatar: The Last Airbender" — Uncle Iroh.
Much like the scales that represent the seventh sign in the zodiac, Iroh is the embodiment of balance, harmony, and peace. A wise mentor to his nephew Prince Zuko, Iroh is more interested in serving the greater good of everyone than his home nation. His list of allies runs long, crossing numerous "enemy" lines. Easy-going, open-minded, comforting, and humorous, Iroh embodies the Libra principle of seeing every side of a conflict. Those born between September 23 and October 23 are inherently compassionate and empathetic people, traits that Iroh shares and uses to find balance and resolution amidst the turbulent elements around him.
Likewise, similar to many Libras, Iroh is a swirl of contradictions — a hedonist with exacting discipline; a peacemaker who waves the banner of an invading nation, and a lover who also happens to be a decorated fighter. Libras are the kind of sign that would use waterbending techniques to divert lightning. They'll move mountains to preserve a life of peace.
Scorpio: Katara
While they're often mistaken for a fire sign, the element of Scorpio is in fact (get this) water. Katara, the waterbending member of Team Avatar, has a lot in common with the eighth sign in the zodiac. Scorpios have a reputation for being reserved. And while this can sometimes come across as evasive or enigmatic, in Katara's case — and surely the case of other Scorpios — her secretiveness tends to manifest as a tightly guarded private life. Katara isn't above wearing different masks, from her role as the de facto "parent" of Team Avatar or a literal disguise, like when she impersonates the benevolent spirit of the Jang Hui River.
Those born between October 24 and November 21 are fiercely protective and passionate individuals. Katara is no different, going above and beyond to keep those she loves safe, almost to a fault, often coming across as domineering. Scorpios like Katara are extremely loyal and deeply compassionate people, with a talent for keying into the emotional needs and weak points of those around them. To boot, Scorpios are attracted to passion, so Katara's belief and dedication to Aang's world-saving mission makes perfect sense.
Sagittarius: Prince Zuko
Strong-willed, dedicated, and diplomatic, Prince Zuko embodies the beating heart of the ninth sign in the zodiac. Sagittarius, the warrior-poet, is a kind, if impatient, sign. They aspire to make the world a better place, and their hastiness and inability to play it safe often spell disaster. For Zuko, the ostracized prince of the Fire Nation, that means being kicked out of his home country for speaking out against the injustice of his father's tyranny.
The fire sign Sagittarius is defined by a love of exploration, growth, and learning. And over the course of his journey in the show, Zuko's goal shifts from wanting to capture the Avatar to wanting to carve out his own space in the world. From an exiled prince traveling the world in an effort to win back daddy's love to a self-assured young man attempting to reinvent himself, Zuko is constantly learning more about himself and his ever-shifting purpose. In the end, he wants to be independent of his father's expectations and to unpack his own life on his own terms, and that's a true Sagittarius.
Those born between November 22 and December 21 don't do well sitting still and thrive when they're on the move. And while Zuko's globe-trotting quest began in an ill-advised place, in the end, his reckless pursuit of belonging and independence lead him to join Team Avatar and face his father on his own terms.
Capricorn: Suki
If any sign has "girlboss energy," it's Capricorn. And that's why Suki is the perfect representative for the tenth sign in the zodiac. Suki is a leader of a band of Kyoshi Warriors, a skilled all-female group of elite fighters sworn to protect the ancestral homeland of Avatar Kyoshi. Capricorns take a while to warm up to people, but while Suki initially clocks Team Avatar as Fire Nation spies, they soon form an unbreakable bond that proves invaluable to the eventual defeat of Fire Lord Ozai.
Capricorns deeply value tradition. For Suki, that means upholding the beliefs and integrity of the Kyoshi Warriors, which involves meditation, protecting communities in need of aid, and sisterhood. Capricorns are masters of exacting structure, goal-setting, and are incredibly (almost intimidatingly) pragmatic. As the leader of an elite military squad, Suki embodies all of these principles, directing her "can do" attitude towards the betterment of her cohort and preserving the guiding spirit of their namesake. Whether she's protecting Appa or ensuring the safety of Team Avatar, Suki's sense of duty and commitment is undeniable. Like those born between December 22 and January 19, Suki is incredibly responsible and the ultimate guardian.
Aquarius: Mai
A nobleman's daughter and one of the main allies of Princess Azula, Mai exemplifies Aquarius' most pronounced trait — namely, a cold, detached, sense of aloofness.
While her inner life is decidedly more complex, outwardly, Mai moves through the world as an impassive, apathetic teenager, ambivalent and "above" all the petty squabbles erupting around her. This is a classic move for those born between January 20 and February 18, who characteristically don't "do" feelings, just concepts. Aquarians can be purposefully esoteric and tend to make "being different" a core part of their personality. While she isn't necessarily an archetypical outcast, next to the passionate Azula and bubbly Ty Lee, she certainly marches (or is that sulks?) to the beat of a different drum.
Brooding and stoic, Mai takes little interest in those around her, exhibiting the classic blasé air associated with the eleventh sign in the zodiac. Aquarians like Mai are difficult to get close to. But for the lucky few, Aquarians are intelligent and creative (if eccentric) friends.
Pisces: King Bumi
Okay, so maybe there's something a little sacrilegious about an earthbender being a water sign. But look, if there's a notable Pisces in the world of "Avatar: The Last Airbender," it's Bumi.
The wild-eyed, elderly ruler of Omashu (and childhood friend of Avatar Aang), Bumi is ... how to put this? A bit of an oddball. But Pisces, be real with yourself. You're far from normal, and you need to embrace that. Always keeping his keen mind "open to the possibilities" of the world, Bumi is a mad genius who doesn't just think outside the box but blatantly refuses to acknowledge that the box is there at all. Frequently underestimated, despite being able to single-handedly retake Omashu, Bumi exemplifies the better qualities of the final sign of the zodiac. He's a dreamer, prone to fantasy, and impossible to pin down (like the slimy fish that represents the sign).
Like those born between February 19 and March 20, King Bumi may come across as off his rocker, but he's secretly the smartest tactician in every room, not just thinking three steps ahead but skipping from step one to step 7,645 altogether.