One Piece: Franky’s Voice Actor Announces He’s Stepping Down From The Role

by

As a long-time fan of One Piece and a connoisseur of voice acting, I must say that the news about Kazuki Yao stepping down as Franky’s voice actor is bittersweet. On one hand, it’s heartwarming to see an artist who has given so much to this beloved series finally taking a well-deserved break. On the other hand, his absence will leave a significant void in the anime community.

This article contains spoilers from One Piece.

Key Takeaways

  • Kazuki Yao voiced Franky for about 2 decades, marking his departure from the role.
  • Kazuki Yao has left behind a legacy as one of the most beloved voice actors in One Piece.
  • Fans are eagerly awaiting the announcement of Franky’s new voice actor at Jump Festa 2025.

The popular anime series “One Piece” has had a lengthy hiatus, leading some fans to feel disconnected from it. However, there’s been little news about the show recently. But today, fans were taken aback when a significant update was unexpectedly unveiled.

As a devoted fan, I couldn’t help but notice the announcement that one of the beloved voice actors from the Straw Hat Pirates series, specifically the voice behind Franky, Kazuki Yao, will be stepping down after years of dedicated service. Now, we find ourselves on the hunt for a new talent to fill his shoes and continue the incredible legacy he has built.

Franky’s Voice Actor Steps Down From His Role

  • Kazuki Yao Voiced Franky For About 2 Decades
  • Franky’s Voice Actor Steps Down

It’s not unexpected for Franky’s voice actor, Kazuki Yao, to step down, given his extensive career as a voice actor and the numerous iconic characters he has voiced across various anime series. While Franky from One Piece is his most recognized role, Yao also voices Bon Clay in the same series, and has portrayed Django throughout the majority of the story. However, it’s undeniable that Yao shone brightest as Franky, a role that perfectly captured Franky’s boisterous personality in the series, which endeared him to fans. Over time, Yao has become synonymous with Franky in the minds of many fans. Unfortunately, Yao is now in his 80s and his health has been declining rapidly. A glance at recent photos compared to older ones reveals that he’s not in the best shape anymore.

The role of voice acting is too taxing for him, and, taking all things into consideration, it should be easy for the fans to understand why he is stepping down from his role of voicing Franky and other characters. Alongside the famous Straw Hats Seiyuu, he has brought many massive moments to the fans and given them real depth, as well as an emotionally charged feeling that cannot be replicated. That said, all good things must come to an end, and it is certainly very unfortunate that Kazuki Yao cannot make it to the end with the other Straw Hat voice actors. That said, he leaves behind a legacy that is untouchable. Here is Kazuki Yao’s official message to the fans:

It’s time to bid a tearful goodbye, to the friend I’ve shared nearly a quarter of my life with… It was almost surreal, but it feels like there’s a void now between me and the Franky I imagined… And so, for now, I’m stepping away from the Sunny. I’m feeling frustrated, sad, and deeply sorry. But don’t worry, we’ve got an incredible new addition joining us! Stay tuned for the announcement on December 22nd at Jump Festa! – Kazuki Yao

The Legacy Left Behind By Kazuki Yao

Kazuki Yao Has Been One Of The Most Beloved Voice Actors In One Piece

Kazuki Yao has truly excelled in his portrayal of Franky from the popular series “One Piece.” While he’s lent his voice to other characters within the show, such as Bon Clay, it is primarily as the cyborg shipwright Franky that he is widely recognized. Initially introduced in the Water 7 Arc, Franky initially appeared as an adversary. However, had he continued in this role, Kazuki Yao would have played a second villain in “One Piece.” In the end, though, Franky became an ally to the Straw Hat Pirates, led by Luffy, changing his character’s trajectory.

Since then, Kazuki Yao has been an integral member of a prominent family, and he’s consistently remained with the Straw Hat Pirates as a key character. Moreover, numerous memorable moments for Franky, such as the Enies Lobby arc where Franky showcased several remarkable instances, particularly when he destroyed Pluton’s blueprints, were significantly enhanced by Kazuki Yao. Furthermore, their fight against Fukuro and the powerful dialogue exchanged between Franky and Robin, like Franky asserting that existing is never a crime, can all be attributed to the contributions of Kazuki Yao.

Existing is never a crime. – Franky

As a die-hard fan, I can’t help but express my awe at the incredible performances of Franky, especially by the talented Kazuki Yao, in every arc that followed. From Thriller Bark and Sabaody, which were massive for Franky, to his post-timeskip evolution, he simply outdid himself. In Dressrosa, I was left spellbound by the epic showdown between Franky and Senor Pink, a battle that Kazuki Yao breathed life into once more. To add to this, Franky’s iconic lines have been delivered flawlessly by him on numerous occasions. And if all of that wasn’t enough, Wano Arc provided us with even more opportunities for Franky to fight and create exhilarating moments, giving Kazuki Yao yet another chance to shine.

Without a doubt, Kazuki Yao’s acting in this story segment was simply outstanding. Over the years, he has consistently delivered exceptional work that is unparalleled by others. His portrayal of Franky was nothing short of brilliant – balancing the character’s comedic and perverted aspects seamlessly, while also showcasing his dreamy, ambitious side as a cyborg. This performance is truly commendable.

Beyond this, Kazuki Yao has consistently shown Franky’s faith in Luffy in an exceptional manner. Most recently, in Wano, he scolded Nami for her doubt in the captain, a moment that was beautifully brought to life in the anime. Fans will always remember his contributions over the years. Now, it’s time for him to relax and enjoy One Piece as a fan along with us.

Who Will Replace Kazuki Yao As Franky’s Voice Actor?

For Now, Kazuki Yao’s Replacement Remains Unknown

It’s still a mystery as to who will take over Kazuki Yao’s role as Franky’s voice actor. The identity of the new actor is currently unknown to fans, but according to Franky’s current voice actor, this announcement could be made during Jump Festa 2025. If fans are guessing, they might think it could be Wataru Takagi, who recently voiced Full Body. However, this is just speculation, and we’ll have to wait and see who gets the role in reality.

The Jump Festa event of 2025 is set to take place from December 21st to 22nd, 2025. It’s expected that the One Piece stage will occur specifically on December 22nd. For those eager fans, the live stream can be found on YouTube.

Read More

2024-12-09 02:35