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Japan Anime News Edit by Satoru Shoji

New Hero Joins “Gozyuger”: Kaiki Kimura Cast as Mashiro Kumade / Gozyu Polar — “I Finally Did It!”

The latest episode of the Super Sentai series Number One Sentai Gozyuger (airs Sundays at 9:30 AM on TV Asahi) aired its 15th episode, “Stop the June Bride,” on June 1.


Mashito Kumade / kaiki Kimura

Mashito Kumade / kaiki Kimura© TV Asahi / Toei AG / Toei


Episode 15 ended with a shocking twist: the villainous organization Braidan holds a ritual wedding between Tega Sword and Tega June, giving birth to the Prince of Ruin and bringing about the end of the world. With the story heading into uncharted territory, what's next for Gozyuger?


Gozyuger Key Visual

Gozyuger Key Visual© TV Asahi / Toei AG / Toei


A new chapter begins with Episode 16 airing on June 8, and to celebrate, a new visual has been released. It teases the arrival of a true savior descending to rescue a fallen world. At its center stands a bold new character: Mashiro Kumade/Gozyu Polar, proclaiming, “I’m the true Number One!” alongside the Prince of Ruin, Goodeburn. Also featured is a frozen-hued Sentai ring, marking the fresh start for Gozyuger.


GoodeBurn

GoodeBurn© TV Asahi / Toei AG / Toei


The role of Mashiro Kumade/Gozyu Polar will be played by actor Kaiki Kimura. Kimura shared his emotional journey, saying, “I auditioned for tokusatsu shows year after year… and I finally did it! When I got the call that I passed, I was so shocked I went silent for a few minutes.”

Kumade makes a dashing entrance and saves people in peril, calling himself a fearless reformer unafraid of even the gods. His signature introduction? “I am Mashiro Kumade, also known as ‘Godness Kumade!’ A fearless reformer unafraid of divine wrath!” His over-the-top presence is sure to make him unforgettable.


Gozyu Polar

Gozyu Polar© TV Asahi / Toei AG / Toei


Adding to his striking appearance is a white robe reminiscent of what a pro-wrestler wears when entering the ring. Kimura recalls being shocked upon first seeing the costume, but now says with a smile, “It feels like the costume gives me strength.” Both the unique white robe and the primarily white Gozyu Polar suit are must-sees. Kimura added, “I’ll keep pushing forward with the mindset that I’m Number One! Episode 16 grabs your attention right from the start, so don’t miss it!”

The voices of two pivotal characters—GoodeBurn, the Prince of Ruin born from Tega Sword and Tega June, and Bearkuma, Kumade’s devilish debt collector companion—will be performed by veteran voice actor KENN, known for his work in Yu-Gi-Oh! GX, IDOLiSH7, and many more. Taking on the vastly different roles of Gudebaan and the snarky mascot Beakkuma, KENN was praised by Kimura: “I couldn’t believe one person is voicing both GoodeBur and Beakkuma. That’s amazing!”


KENN

KENN


KENN also expressed surprise and excitement: “I was shocked and thrilled when I learned I’d be playing two characters from entirely different perspectives. It’s a rare opportunity.”


Kaiki Kimura’s Comment:

As the eldest of four brothers, I grew up watching Super Sentai for years. I even have a photo wearing Magiranger (2005) pajamas! I auditioned for Toei tokusatsu productions every single year, so the first thing I felt when I got the role was, “I finally did it!” I was so stunned that I sat in silence for a few minutes. Honestly, it still doesn’t feel real.

But seeing footage with CG for the first time helped me realize, “I really am Gozyu Polar.” Before filming began, I eased my nerves by working out—but I actually had to stop since the costume made it harder to move (laughs).

The character I play, Kumade, can understand what others are thinking or struggling with. So even when the script says, “Everyone is surprised,” I try to interpret it through Kumade’s lens and consider how he might have sensed it earlier than others.

Kumade’s white robe is also quite iconic. I was surprised when I first saw it in the materials, but now it feels like it empowers me. And I love anime, so when I found out KENN-san would be voicing both GoodeBurn and Bearkuma, I was floored. He’s such an incredible voice actor.
When we met, I casually told him, “I’m having a hard time figuring out how to project my voice in the studio,” and he gave me incredibly insightful advice. It really moved me.

The rest of the cast is just as supportive. When someone’s struggling or having a tough time, those with the energy to help will step up—it’s not just about being friendly; we’re truly one team. I’ve been able to perform in such a warm, family-like atmosphere, and it’s been an absolute joy.
As Mashiro Kumade, as Kaiki Kimura, and as a viewer, I’m excited to enjoy the journey of Gozyuger. Everyone in this show is aiming to be Number One. I’ll keep giving my all with that same spirit—“I am Number One!”


Source : ORICON NEWS