The new arc of the anime ‘Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba,’ titled ‘Hashira Training Arc,’ reaches its final episode (Episode 8) today, the 30th. In Episode 7, the past of the Stone Hashira, Gyomei Himejima, was spotlighted. ORICON NEWS interviewed Tomokazu Sugita, the voice actor for Gyomei, to discuss his approach to the character and what he focused on while portraying him. (Photography: Ruka Ueno / Text: Masaki Endo / Editing: Hideaki Sakurai)

■Respecting the Sensitivity of the Audience: The Actor’s Perspective on Key Performance Elements

――What is important to you when portraying a character?
Sugita: It is important to quietly take on the emotions of the viewers, just like Gyomei does, and protect the sensitivity of the audience. I believe this consciousness is already expressed through my actions without the need to put it into words.

――What is important to you when portraying a character?

Sugita: It is important to quietly take on the emotions of the viewers, just like Gyomei does, and protect the sensitivity of the audience. I believe this consciousness is already expressed through my actions without the need to put it into words.

――The recording sessions were reportedly intense. What was the atmosphere like?

Sugita: I hope for an environment that doesn’t negate anyone’s sensibility, and indeed, the atmosphere was excellent, without any negative vibes.

■Taking on a Leadership Role: The Importance of Trust in Character Development

――Can you tell us more about what was important in developing the character?

Sugita: It’s about not letting others sense any anxiety or impatience. When the Hashira gather, Gyomei naturally takes the lead, so I acted in a way that earned similar trust from others.

――In the first episode of the ‘Hashira Training Arc,’ Gyomei naturally takes a leadership role.

Sugita: I think it’s important that such a position is naturally determined. Without overseeing the whole, someone’s thoughts might get scattered. Gyomei’s ability to move things naturally is why he’s in that position.

――Have there been any changes in Gyomei or your portrayal of him since the ‘Tanjiro Kamado, Unwavering Resolve Arc’?

Sugita: The important thing is to remain unchanged, to stay composed, and to be able to accept anything. To think about that means that not changing and staying unshakable is crucial. As situations, opponents, and allies change, accepting these while remaining grounded is essential, and I believe Gyomei symbolizes that position.

■Pursuing the Meaning of Tears in Character Development

――Were there any difficulties or significant challenges unique to portraying Gyomei?

Sugita: While I prepare plans for portraying Gyomei in advance, how to receive direction, consolidate it, and complete it is not something that can be achieved by one performer alone. That’s something I also prioritize.

――Gyomei is a silent yet emotionally expressive character. How did you balance the silent yet tearful aspect of his character?

Sugita: It’s about considering where his feelings are directed and why he sheds tears. I think about what Gyomei is thinking in his mind, realizing it’s about eliminating demons. Reflecting on past events and preventing the same from happening again leads to training, and this thought process naturally becomes Gyomei’s lines. Each line, each time he sheds tears, has meaning, and I made sure to convey that through my performance.

The ‘Hashira Training Arc’ airs every Sunday at 11:15 PM on Fuji TV and every Saturday at midnight on TOKYO MX, BS11, Gunma TV, and Tochigi TV. The final episode, Episode 8, will air on Sunday, June 30th, and will be extended to 60 minutes.

Tomokazu Sugita Profile

Born on October 11th, from Saitama Prefecture. Affiliated with AGRS. Major roles include Gintoki Sakata in ‘Gintama,’ Joseph Joestar in ‘JoJo's Bizarre Adventure,’ and Yoroi-san in ‘Chiikawa.’ He also works extensively in foreign film dubbing and narration, including as Komaram Bheem (N. T. Rama Rao Jr.) in ‘RRR.’

Source : ORICON NEWS