The popular TV anime BLEACH will begin airing the third cour of its final chapter, 'BLEACH: Thousand-Year Blood War – The Conflict', on TV Tokyo starting at 11:00 PM on October 5th. In conjunction with this, the 20th-anniversary key visual, a new promotional video, celebratory comments from the cast, and the synopsis and scene cuts for episode 27 have been released.

The newly unveiled key visual commemorating the 20th anniversary features Byakuya Kuchiki, Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez, Ulquiorra Cifer, Sosuke Aizen, Kugo Ginjo, and Yhwach, highlighting the trajectory of Ichigo's fierce battles with these formidable adversaries over the years.

Serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump from 2001 to 2016, BLEACH tells the story of protagonist Ichigo Kurosaki, who gains the powers of a Soul Reaper after meeting Rukia Kuchiki, and the adventures of him and his companions.

The manga series has sold over 130 million copies worldwide, and the franchise has expanded into games and a live-action film adaptation starring Sota Fukushi in 2018. The TV anime originally aired from 2004 to 2012. The Thousand-Year Blood War arc is planned to adapt the manga to its conclusion. The anime returned after about 10 years since March 2012, with the first cour airing from October to December 2022 and the second cour from July to September 2023.

Byakuya Kuchiki (voiced by Ryotaro Okiayu)

Back then, the studio was filled with a lively cast brimming with the spirit to make the work even better. I was probably full of that passion too, even if I might have been a bit cheeky.

It's an immense joy that BLEACH's sequel has been revived as a TV series again after 10 years, and that we performers can play the same characters. I'm filled with gratitude to everyone who supported us.

To express my strong desire to see the work through to the end, let me use this phrase synonymous with Byakuya: 'Scatter.'

Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez (voiced by Junichi Suwabe)

Congratulations on the 20th anniversary! I vividly remember when Kubo-sensei told me at the wrap-up party of the TV anime series in 2012, 'Grimmjow isn't dead yet!'

I was thrilled when he reappeared in the original manga, but I felt a bit lonely thinking I might not have the chance to portray him again. But who would have thought! He's a character who left his mark on the story by matching up with the protagonist.

I'm truly happy that so many of you still love him.
Please look forward to his appearance in the Thousand-Year Blood War arc!

Ulquiorra Cifer (voiced by Daisuke Namikawa)

Back then, the recording studio wasn't particularly large, but it was filled with so much enthusiasm that it felt like being right in the middle of a massive vortex of energy. Amidst that, I suddenly joined as a cool character. I remember being conscious of maintaining a steady tone, without highs or lows in tension, and not raising my voice volume. When I tried to add inflection to color the performance, they told me it wasn't necessary. It was my own battle among characters who were like embodiments of heat. The many words of attention I received were very encouraging. Above all, I was happy to play a character loved by so many people.

20th anniversary! While the power of the original work is, of course, significant, it's all thanks to everyone's support. For a voice actor, being able to play the same character for a long time is especially meaningful. I have nothing but gratitude.

So this is... a heart.

Sosuke Aizen (voiced by Sho Hayami)

"Congratulations on the 20th anniversary. Has it really been that long?

The fierce battle with Ichigo feels like it was just the other day.

Aizen exists as a solitary strong man who never compromises.

The days I faced the considerable difficulty and pressure were fulfilling.

Of course, I intend to continue portraying Aizen properly.
Please continue to enjoy BLEACH."

Kugo Ginjo (voiced by Hiroki Tochi)

Hello, I'm Hiroki Tochi, the voice of Kugo Ginjo.

I remember being very happy when I found out I would be appearing in the hugely popular BLEACH. When playing Ginjō, I recall being conscious of the contrasts because he is nonchalant yet harbors cruelty, so I was mindful of the ups and downs.

I remember sweating in the studio, feeling like my blood vessels were about to burst during the battle scene with Ichigo, where power clashed with power. It's a nostalgic memory. I'm very happy to be able to play such an attractive character again, and I will do my best to make everyone happy, so please look forward to it!

Yhwach (voiced by Takayuki Sugo)

For 20 years, I have participated as Zangetsu.

At that time, as I wasn't accustomed to anime recording, I relied on Masakazu Morita, who plays Ichigo, and played Zangetsu. And now, Yhwach. The character is similar, but I feel even more motivated by his significant presence.

There are many BLEACH fans around me, and some even send me their own illustrations of Yhwach, and I'm amazed by the power of the work.

Thank you, everyone! Please continue to support BLEACH even more!!

Source : ORICON NEWS