Popular voice actor Toru Furuya (70), known for his roles as Tooru Amuro in the anime "Detective Conan" and Amuro Ray in "Mobile Suit Gundam," has been reported to have had an affair with a non-celebrity woman, according to Weekly Bunshun. In response, Furuya updated his X account with an apology. As Furuya is currently involved in numerous anime projects, the term "voice actor replacement" has been trending online, with fans expressing concern over the potential replacement of his roles.

The report was published in Weekly Bunshun (Bunshun Online) under the headline, "[Detective Conan's Popular Character Tooru Amuro's Voice...] Legendary Voice Actor Toru Furuya (70) Confesses to a 4.5-Year Affair, Pregnancy Termination, and Assault Incident with a 37-Year-Younger Fan Woman."

Furuya reported on X, "Recently, I, Toru Furuya, was interviewed by Weekly Bunshun. I have a serious apology and report regarding the grave sin I have committed. I had an affair with a fan woman for a long period of four and a half years until September last year."

He explained, "I was attracted to her genuine support and, foolishly, I initiated contact, which led to our relationship. During this relationship, we once had an argument, and in a moment of weakness, I raised my hand against her. This was the lowest behavior for an adult and as a human being."

He continued, "I also committed the unforgivable sin of causing her to terminate a pregnancy. I deeply regret the physical and emotional harm I have caused her. I sincerely, sincerely apologize for betraying the trust of my long-time fans, disappointing, and hurting them, and tarnishing the characters I voice. I cannot apologize enough for betraying the trust of all related parties and causing great trouble."

"I am determined to make amends with all my remaining life. I am prepared to accept any punishment. I am truly sorry," he apologized.

Furuya is a popular voice actor known for his roles as Tooru Amuro in "Detective Conan," Sabo in "ONE PIECE," Amuro Ray in "Mobile Suit Gundam," and Hyuuma Hoshi in "Star of the Giants."

Therefore, there are various opinions online such as, "I hope they don't replace the voice actor...", "People saying characters aren't related to such scandals and hence shouldn't replace the voice actor need to consider if they would want to work with someone like this during recording sessions. You wouldn't want such a person in your workplace, would you?" "Hey, what will happen to Amuro if they replace the voice actor?" "Many people wish the voice actor isn't replaced, but I think he should be." "Since it is basically a children's anime, a replacement might be inevitable," showing the heightened attention towards the potential replacement of the voice actor.

Source : ORICON NEWS