Episode 44: Facing Pet Loss and the Power of Animation

Ueda spotlighted Episode 44, “So Many Blessings,” which depicts the death of Fuku, addressing the emotional bond between pets and owners.
“I cried watching Otsuru sob. Seeing the blanket with all of Fuku’s expressions... I lost it. The moment of their final connection, when Fuku’s eyes seemed happy, really touched me. Niko-sama also understood—it showed so much love. The animators who drew that... they’re amazing!”

Matsuda praised Naganawa’s heartfelt delivery in a scene where she speaks Fuku’s final thoughts: “I couldn’t get the line out at home during V-check. I didn’t know if I’d manage at the studio.”

Tanezaki mentioned that Natsuki Aikawa, who played Otsuru, had a similar personal experience:
“Her dog stood up and came into her arms in its final moments—just like Fuku. She told me after recording.”

Matsuda was so moved she struggled to speak, leading into her choice:
Episode 46, “Meeeeerry Christmas!”
She felt like her childhood self returned when Yuki gazed at four falling stars and said, “This glittering world... it’s not so bad.”
“It felt like a world of black and white had turned to color. This was the one episode I wanted to share with others.”

Beyond the Precure Team: Bonds with Everyone

The talk moved to Wanpuri’s diverse supporting cast: Satoru, Daifuku, Meemee, Niko-sama, Kirarin Animals, and more.
They also discussed villains Gaou, Zakuro, and Torame.
Tanezaki laughed, “We always say ‘Let me hear your voice,’ but nobody listens to Meemee!”

Ueda shared that Eriko Matsui, who played Torame, wore yellow (matching her character) on the day of Episode 45’s recording. “I did too! Even though she’s a villain, we shared something special.”

They also praised Shinya Takahashi, who voiced all the Gurgles:
“His acting and personality are wonderful—he brightens the atmosphere. He saved us.”
Tanezaki added, “I think Shinya is a Precure too. He thinks deeply about the series—he’s essential.”

What to Look Forward to in the Final Two Episodes

Each cast member shared non-spoiler hints.
Matsuda was surprised when she heard Takeo Otsuka was cast as Gaou/Subaru, saying, “I expected the final boss to be played by a senior veteran. But it makes sense now.”

Naganawa added, “Subaru’s emotions will hit hard through his voice.”
Tanezaki said, “Until the very end, it will be unmistakably Wonderful Precure!”
Ueda nodded, and the audience applauded with anticipation.

Final Words from the Cast

Ueda:
“From the moment I entered the venue, I felt your passion. The last episode showed how everyone treasures their friends. Subaru, Animal Town... everyone. It really felt like Wanpuri. I hope you’ll watch until the very end.”

Matsuda:
“Have you cried while watching Wanpuri? ...Thank you for those deep nods (laughs). I cried too. The tears are warm. This whole year meant so much to me. Thank you for running alongside us.”

Tanezaki:
“There wasn’t a day I didn’t think about Wanpuri, especially during the time I couldn’t see you all. Even now, after the final recording, it still hasn’t sunk in. This show helped me reflect on myself—past and future. I hope you’ll stay with us to the end.”

Naganawa:
“It flew by! I still have more to say, but I’ll save it for the thanksgiving event. I loved hearing everyone’s thoughts—it was so touching. Only two episodes left, and I’m so glad I could speak in front of our wonderful supporters. This work is full of kindness. You all must be kind too—we’re just a bunch of kindness! (laughs) Please enjoy Wanpuri to the very end!”

The event ended with the cast exiting through the audience, receiving warm applause and cheers—symbolizing the deep bonds both between the characters of Wonderful Precure! and among the cast themselves.

Text by Mari Sakusai

Source : ORICON NEWS