Jiraiya was one of three ninjas from Konoha who were trained by Hiruzen Sarutobi, the third Hokage. Along with Tsunade and Orochimaru, they became known as "Sannin," or the Legendary Three Ninja. Despite being a pervert who loved looking at beautiful women, Jiraiya claimed to be doing research for his writing when he got distracted. He was also an author of the Icha Icha Series, which Kakashi enjoyed reading. In addition to this, Jiraiya had the ability to summon powerful toads as a toad-tamer. He played a significant role in teaching and training Naruto.
Jiraiya also trained the 4th Hokage, Minato Namikaze. Another one of his notable students was Nagato, who would later become known as Pain. When Jiraiya infiltrates the rain village to get information regarding Pain, he dies in battle against all six Pains.