An official interview with Sho Hayami, the voice of Sosuke Aizen in BLEACH’s final arc, Thousand-Year Blood War: Conflict, has been released. Hayami discusses the complexity of playing Aizen, who he describes as a surprising “tsundere” character, revealing a side of Aizen that might seem affectionate, despite his cool exterior.

If you could sum up Sosuke Aizen’s appeal in one word, what would it be?

Hayami: I’d say “tsundere.” I think Aizen’s intense battles with Ichigo are, in a way, expressions of affection. It feels like he’s trying to teach Ichigo something. So, the intense, battle-ready Aizen could be seen as the “dere” side, while his calm, almost distant Captain persona might actually be his “tsun” side. Also, his independence is really appealing. People often look for a place to belong, but Aizen refuses that entirely. He stands alone, unwavering in his ideals, and that strength is part of his beauty.

It seems difficult to convey intensity without shouting. How did you approach that with Aizen?

Hayami: When BLEACH began 20 years ago, recording sessions were packed with incredible energy. It was like a “Voice Actor Avengers” lineup, with all the cast gathered in the studio! (laughs) Aizen, however, was always a bit cooler and apart from that, and I think that’s when I really grasped his positioning. I’ve maintained that consistent quality since then.

Did you avoid socializing with the cast to maintain Aizen’s aloofness?

Hayami: Oh, I joined in during breaks, of course! (laughs) But when recording, while other actors brought out 100% of their personalities, I did the opposite by intentionally “stripping away” my personality to embody Aizen’s character.

Do you have any memorable experiences from past recordings?

Hayami: The recording for the climactic battle between Ichigo and Aizen in the “Arrancar Arc” was unforgettable. There were about 40 other actors in the studio for the Shinigami roles. The space was so packed that people were standing behind us, watching like an audience. That memory of performing in front of everyone is still vivid.

Was there any notable direction you received that stayed with you?

Hayami: Before recording Thousand-Year Blood War, I did some lines for the BLEACH Brave Souls mobile game. They asked me to sound “a bit younger.” My impression of Aizen was always low and deep-toned, but it had been 17 years since the first recording, so perhaps I’d unknowingly aged him. I tried a younger tone for the Thousand-Year Blood War anime, but then the director immediately said, “You don’t have to make him sound that young.” (laughs) It’s amazing how a slight tonal change can shift the impression of a character.

What’s your favorite line from Aizen?

Hayami: There are many powerful lines, but my favorite is the incantation for “Kurohitsugi” (Black Coffin). It has this unique, almost poetic rhythm. The first time I performed it in the studio, I felt truly grateful, thinking, “How lucky I am to recite this!” While the individual words might evoke dark imagery, the incantation as a whole feels like a complete work of art.

(Incantation for Hadō #90 “Kurohitsugi” - “The crest of turbidity seeping out. An insolent vessel of madness. Boiling up, denying, numbing, and flickering. Disrupt sleep. Crawling iron princess. A mud doll ever-dissolving. Unite, repulse. Fill the earth and know your own impotence.”)

Which BLEACH character do you like most, and why?

Hayami: I like Gin Ichimaru. In a way, he’s the most “manly” character in BLEACH. He was always near Aizen, secretly waiting for his chance for revenge. I admire Gin’s stealth and unwavering determination.

Lastly, could you share a message with fans visiting the official site?

Hayami: Thank you for supporting and loving BLEACH for 20 years. The Thousand-Year Blood War arc is reaching its climax. Please stay with us, and continue to cheer for BLEACH! Thank you very much.

Anime BLEACH Official Web SIte

Source : ORICON NEWS