The additional cast for the TV anime Rurouni Kenshin -Meiji Swordsman Romantic Story- Kyoto Arc (Ruroken) has been announced. The previously unrevealed roles of Shishio's subordinates, the Juppongatana, have been disclosed. Junichi Suwabe will play Uonuma Usui, Ayumu Murase will portray Honjou Kamatari, Bin Shimada takes on Saizuchi, and Gakuto Kajiwara will voice Fuji. With this, the full cast of Shishio's elite Juppongatana has been unveiled.

The fourth promotional video has also been released, and the second cour of the second season of Rurouni Kenshin -Meiji Swordsman Romantic Story- Kyoto Arc will begin airing on Fuji TV's "noitaminA" programming block starting January 9, 2025, every Thursday at 12:55 AM. In the second cour, Shishio's elite strike team, the Juppongatana, will gather in Kyoto, setting the stage for fierce battles.

The new Rurouni Kenshin anime, which began airing in July 2023, is a complete reconstruction of the original story using the latest animation technology. Supervised by the original author, Nobuhiro Watsuki, the series features entirely new character designs, scripts, and a refreshed cast. Thirty years after the manga's debut, this new anime aims to bring Rurouni Kenshin to a new generation.

In the second season, the story takes a dramatic turn as protagonist Himura Kenshin faces hardships that draw him away from the peaceful days at the Kamiya Dojo, culminating in his confrontation with Shishio Makoto.

Comments from the Cast

■Junichi Suwabe (Uonuma Usui)

Q1: How did you feel when you were cast for this role?
This is a hugely popular series! I was aware that a new anime adaptation was being produced in this Reiwa era, but I never imagined I’d be a part of it. I’m truly delighted to be involved.

Q2: What is your approach to portraying the character?
Among the Juppongatana, Usui is known for his sadistic nature. I will do my best to express his inner madness and the hidden depths of his character.

■Ayumu Murase (Honjou Kamatari)

Q1: How did you feel when you were cast for this role?
As a child, I was so captivated by this series that I often pretended to use Shukuchi techniques with my umbrella on my way home from school (laughs). When I received the audition offer, I reread the manga and was reminded of its energy and brilliance. It’s truly an immortal masterpiece. I’m thrilled to be part of such an unforgettable series.

Q2: What is your approach to portraying the character?
I see Kamatari as a mood maker who naturally pays attention to others, even without realizing it. While maintaining his carefree demeanor, he harbors deep feelings of loyalty, affection, and admiration for Shishio. I hope everyone enjoys seeing him in action.

■Ryota Osaka (Kariwa Henya)

Q1: How did you feel when you were cast for this role?
It feels surreal to be part of a series I watched as a kid, but I’m also incredibly excited. I feel the pressure, but I’m looking forward to bringing something new to the role. I aim to keep up with the amazing cast around me.

Q2: What is your approach to portraying the character?
The original Henya was voiced by Eiji Takemoto, and I had the chance to share my gratitude with him when we met. He encouraged me warmly, and I hope to deliver a fresh take on the character that pays homage to his legacy.

■Takumi Yamazaki (Iwanbo)

Q1: How did you feel when you were cast for this role?
"Uh... 'Gufu.'" When I picked up the script for Iwanbo’s debut, the sound director, Naya, said, "He doesn’t speak Japanese!" I thought, "Wait, what?" The challenge of the role instantly rose!

Q2: What is your approach to portraying the character?
There are actually variations of "Gufu" in the script: "Gufu," "Gufu?," and even "Gufu!" I’m exploring these nuances to bring the character to life. But please don’t make a compilation of all the "Gufu" lines, okay? (laughs)

Teaser Trailer

Source : ORICON NEWS