Ritsu Kasanoda is the heir to the third-generation leader of the Kasanoda-gumi, the most powerful yakuza group in Kantō, Japan. Raised from a young age to be the next leader, he is often perceived as intimidating, leading to him having few friends. Known for his long red hair and fierce appearance, Kasanoda was trained by his father to look tough and unapproachable. Despite this, he has a kind heart and enjoys helping others.
Several rumors surround Kasanoda. It's said that if you meet his gaze, you'll suffer three months of nightmares. If he bumps into someone, they end up in the hospital, and anyone who talks back to him winds up in the graveyard. His classmates call him the "human blizzard" due to his fearsome reputation.
Kasanoda initially seeks to learn from Morinozuka, hoping to gain respect and admiration despite Morinozuka's own intimidating appearance. He faces some embarrassments at the hands of the Host Club members, who affectionately call him "Casanova-kun" or "Bossa Nova-kun." This is all part of his desire to learn how to make friends and enjoy people's company. Through experiences with Tetsuya, a member of his household, he discovers that there are already people who know his good side but didn't mention it because of his shyness.
Kasanoda accidentally becomes the first person outside the Host Club to discover that Haruhi is a girl when he walks into a room too quickly. Initially confused about his feelings for her, he falls in love after learning she is female and starts attending the Host Club as a customer. However, when he tries to confess his feelings, Haruhi, who is usually oblivious to romantic advances, rejects him kindly. She considers him an understanding friend. Upon being told by Kyoya that Haruhi must appear male for "special reasons," Kasanoda resolves to publicly state they will be friends forever to avoid causing her any trouble. He is unaware that these "special reasons" involve Haruhi's debt to the club.
After this incident, Kasanoda's wish for friends is fulfilled when everyone in the Host Club agrees to befriend him. In volume 9, he gives Haruhi a tomato plant as a gift. Additionally, he joins the school's Gardening Society. In episode 25 of the anime, he is seen surrounded by female students, looking embarrassed but not angry, while several members of his household secretly observe from behind the bushes.
