Naruto | Shippuden Episode 457

This episode bridges the gap between Itachi’s defection and his first appearance in the original Naruto series. It humanizes him by showing his internal isolation even while surrounded by the world's most dangerous criminals. A breakdown of the Itachi used on Deidara? Which filler episodes you can skip after this arc?

While Itachi carries out missions, his thoughts remain tethered to the Hidden Leaf and his younger brother, Sasuke . Naruto Shippuden Episode 457

Following the death of his previous partner, Juzo Biwa, Itachi is paired with Kisame Hoshigaki . Their initial meeting is tense but marked by mutual respect for their "ninja-slayer" reputations. This episode bridges the gap between Itachi’s defection

Pain assigns Itachi, Kisame, and Sasori to recruit the rogue bomber Deidara . Itachi easily defeats Deidara using a single Genjutsu, forcing him to join the organization. Which filler episodes you can skip after this arc

The beginning of the iconic "Seven Swordsmen and Uchiha" partnership.