Here's why it's tricky:
* Major vs. Minor: There are many main characters, recurring characters, and then background characters who appear only briefly. Do all these count?
* Anime vs. Manga: The anime adaptations (both the original and the 2019 reboot) might add or remove characters from the manga source material.
* Different Seasons: The number of characters introduced might vary across different seasons or arcs of the series.
However, we can say with certainty that Fruits Basket has a large cast of characters. The series focuses on a complex web of relationships, family dynamics, and personal struggles.
To give you a better idea:
* Main Characters: There are a dozen or so main characters whose stories are central to the plot.
* Recurring Characters: These characters play significant roles within specific arcs or for particular characters, potentially adding another dozen or so.
* Background Characters: There are many more who appear briefly or serve as part of the world-building.
Ultimately, it's fair to say there are hundreds of characters in Fruits Basket. The richness of the story comes from the many individuals who contribute to the overarching themes.