Aang is often a popular choice. Genderbending him can lead to some really interesting storylines, like how a female Aang would handle being the Avatar in a male - dominated world of bending. Another popular one is Zuko. Changing his gender can add a whole new layer to his character arc, especially his relationship with his father and his journey of self - discovery.
In genderbend Naruto fanfic, a female Naruto is extremely popular. Fans love to explore how her personality traits would be different as a girl while still maintaining the core of the original Naruto. A male Sakura can also be quite popular. He could be portrayed as a more assertive and perhaps physically stronger character compared to the original Sakura. And then there's Hinata. When gender - bent, she can be a really cool and confident character, which is a departure from her shy and timid original self. These gender - bent versions of the characters allow for new storylines and character interactions that fans find appealing.
A gender - bent Hinata can be quite popular in these fanfics. If she is more assertive like a male Hinata might be, her relationship with Naruto (whether male or female in the fanfic) could take on a whole new dimension. Also, a female Kakashi has a certain allure, as fans are curious about how his character traits would translate to a female version.
In naruto genderbend fanfiction, female Jiraiya is also a popular character. Jiraiya is known for his pervy but also wise and powerful nature in the original. As a female, it completely changes the dynamic. Her interactions with a female Naruto during training or her travels could be really engaging. Also, female Itachi is often a favorite. Itachi's complex backstory and his actions in the original series can be explored in a new light when the character is gender - swapped, especially in terms of family relationships and loyalty.
Definitely Bakugo. His strong personality would be really interesting to see in a female form. Deku is also a popular choice as seeing his kind - hearted and determined nature as a girl could lead to some great storylines. Todoroki is another one. His complex backstory and powerful quirk would be fascinating when genderbent.
Finn and Jake are still really popular even in genderbend fanfiction. Their friendship is iconic, and seeing how it changes when their genders are swapped is fascinating to many fans.
You could have a female Beast called Lyra. She was cursed for her ambition in a world dominated by men. The male Beauty, named Ethan, is a healer. He sees the pain in Lyra's eyes and tries to heal not just her physical form but also her broken spirit. Their interactions would form the core of the story.
Arya Stark is frequently genderbent in fanfiction. As a boy, her story could take on new twists and turns, especially in relation to her training and revenge. Tyrion Lannister can be an interesting genderbend as well. A female Tyrion would face unique challenges in a world that doesn't value women as highly in terms of intelligence and leadership. And then there's Brienne of Tarth. Genderbending her to a male can show how different her journey would be in terms of acceptance and the perception of chivalry.
The characters can be developed by exploring their new self - awareness. For example, a character who has become female through genderbend might start to notice things like how she is treated differently by others in the camp. She could then develop a stronger sense of self - identity and assertiveness. Another way is through their relationships. A character could become more empathetic towards the opposite gender (now their own) and learn from the experiences of their friends in the new gender roles.
Jaune is a character that many like to genderbend. His journey from a novice to a more skilled fighter can be re - imagined in a genderbent version. As a female, her insecurities and growth could be explored in a different light. Pyrrha is also a popular choice. Her skills and status as a champion in the original can be given a new spin when she is genderbent, perhaps with different relationships and interactions with the other characters.