I love Naruto Shippuden series, the other one is just starting to get on my nerves.
My favorite Characters from the leaf and Sand: Yamato, Asuma, Lee, Neji(though he can be a bit cocky and jerkish), Jiraiya, Hinata is ok, Kakashi, Kabuto, Choji, Shikamaru is a big Fav, Naruto is a huge fav, Gaara is another top favorites.

My Favorite Characters for the Akatsuki: I love Hiden(though he has a huge mouth and is annoying), Itachi just started to become one of my favorites, Sasori is always going to be at the top, Konan, from Taka Suigetsu, Karin, and I haven't decided whether or not I like Judo.

Other Characters: Zabuza, Haku, Kimimaro, Killer Bee.

Thats all that I remember so far. Well hope to talk to you later.