The release date for the new live-action original drama series "Knuckles," which will soon be exclusively available on the streaming service "Paramount+," has been set for June 7, with all six episodes to be released at once. It has been announced that the Japanese voice actors for the powerful warrior Knuckles and others will continue their roles. Subaru Kimura will voice Knuckles, Taishi Nakagawa will voice the globally popular super character Sonic, and Ryo Hirohashi will voice Tails, who is adored by fans for his cute yellow twin tails. Additionally, the Japanese dubbed trailer and key visuals have been released.

Yoshida Oolongta will voice Wade Whipple, who becomes Knuckles' apprentice, and Marina Inoue will voice Maddie Wachowski, Tom's wife and Sonic's best friend.

The series premiered in various countries, including the United States, on April 26, ahead of its release in Japan. During its first weekend (April 27-28), it garnered over 4 million viewing hours, setting a new global record as the most-watched Paramount+ original series. The "Sonic the Hedgehog" movie series, featuring the globally beloved character Sonic, has surpassed $700 million in worldwide box office revenue across two films, cementing its immense popularity.

Commenting on behalf of the voice cast, Subaru Kimura, who voices the strikingly red echidna and "strongest warrior" Knuckles, shared his excitement about reprising his role. Knuckles first appeared as Sonic's rival in the second movie, "Sonic the Hedgehog 2," initially as an enemy but eventually becoming an ally, alongside Sonic and the kind-hearted fox with twin tails, Tails, to protect peace in the universe.

Expressing his joy about continuing in his role, Kimura said, "It was a really fun character to play, so I was thrilled to hear 'I get to do it again!'". He added that having Knuckles as the main character feels like "it's finally here!" and encouraged viewers to look forward to Knuckles' transformation from antagonist to protagonist, especially highlighting the many comedic scenes in this installment that he found enjoyable to perform.

Regarding the expectations for the six-episode drama series, Kimura noted, "With six episodes, it's longer than a movie, allowing for a deeper exploration of the story. Knuckles and Sonic become allies and fight together this time. Be sure to watch the story full of their friendship and action! Don't miss it!"

In the Japanese dubbed trailer, Knuckles, Sonic, and Tails appear, giving a glimpse of the story where Knuckles, left on Earth, sets out on a journey. The trailer showcases the performances of Kimura and others. Though Knuckles was living a peaceful life on the Earth he saved, he soon grows bored and, driven by his warrior spirit, takes Sonic's friend Tom's clumsy colleague Wade Whipple as his apprentice and sets off on a journey.

However, a minion of the evil genius scientist Dr. Robotnik (played by Jim Carrey), who also appeared in the movies, attacks to steal Knuckles' power. Despite promising to protect the Earth with Sonic and Tails, what will be Knuckles' fate? The action-packed and humorous story has garnered attention from fans worldwide.

Source : ORICON NEWS