One Piece: Franky’s Voice Actor Kazuki Yao Reveals A Tearful Goodbye Message

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Summary

  • Kazuki Yao, voice actor for One Piece’s Franky, retired due to worsening health issues after a decade of voicing the character.
  • Fans bid farewell as Kazuki Yao expresses gratitude in a heartfelt message during Jump Festa.
  • Subaru Kimura, known for roles in other anime, is announced as the replacement voice actor for Franky.

As an avid anime fan with over two decades of experience under my belt, I must say that witnessing the retirement of a beloved voice actor like Kazuki Yao was a bittersweet moment at this year’s Jump Festa. The man behind Franky’s iconic voice has given us a decade of unforgettable moments and laughter, and his decision to step back due to health issues is understandable yet saddening.

Every anime enthusiast eagerly awaits Jump Festa since it’s where numerous intriguing news and undertakings are unveiled. For One Piece this year, not many projects were shared; nonetheless, fans got a glimpse of the new voice actor replacing Kazuki Yao for Franky, who is stepping down from his role.

Fans were treated not only to the unveiling of Kazuki’s replacement as the voice actor for One Piece’s renowned shipwright Franky, but also to a heartfelt farewell message from Kazuki himself, who has decided to step down from his role. Here is what he shared and the reasons behind his retirement.

Why Did Franky’s Voice Actor Retire?

It appears that Kazuki Yao, who lends his voice to Franky, Bon Clay, and Jango in the series, has decided to step down from these roles due to health concerns. Over the years, his health issues have become more pronounced, necessitating a break. Consequently, fans will soon hear a new voice actor bringing Franky, an essential main character, to life.

Switching voice artists for characters often isn’t problematic, but when it comes to Franky, a principal character and a member of the Straw Hat crew, his distinctive voice has gained an iconic status throughout the years, making any change challenging.

I must say, there’s something distinctively captivating about Kazuki Yao’s voice. It’s a quality that truly sets him apart, making his characters instantly identifiable, regardless of the role he takes on.

Kazuki Yao’s Heartfelt Message At Jump Festa

Here’s what Kazuki Yao had to say during Jump Festa:

I’d like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to everyone, not forgetting the team at Shueisha, which includes Eiichiro Oda. Last but certainly not least, I owe a special thank you to my cherished dogs and above all, my wonderful wife who awaits me at home. Thank you so much! – Kazuki Yao (paraphrased)

At Jump Festa 2025, it was made known that Subaru Kimura would be taking over as the voice actor for Franky. Subaru is an accomplished voice actor who has lent his talents to various anime roles, including Todo in “Jujutsu Kaisen”, Tendo in “Haikyuu!!”, and Saguraki in “The First Slam Dunk”.

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2024-12-23 22:03