Q&A with 20 voice actors.
We’ve asked the cast a lot of questions!
TOMOKAZU SUGITA
Q1. Please tell us how you felt when you heard that the anime Gintama, which you worked for until “Kanketsu-hen”, was returning?
A. It wasn’t funny as a joke, and I thought it was horrible if it was a lie.
Q2. How was the first recording?
A. There was an elderly man in a suit, whom I didn’t know, and despite being loud and friendly, he was somewhat superficial and always vigilant.
Q3. What was the most memorable thing about the recording sessions?
A. Greedy, self-seeking desires are only a hindrance.
Q4. Please tell us your favorite line or scene from this season that left a strong impression on you.
A. Shogun…
Q5. There’s a story about gender reversal in the story. What would you do if you were the opposite sex?
A. And how would I become the opposite sex?
Q6. There was a conversation about replacing the leading voice actors. Who would you like to be your substitute?
A. Toshiyuki Morikawa.
Q7. Shinpachi tried to change his look. What style do you think would be suitable for Gintoki, if he were to change his look?
A. The best, as usual.
Q8. It was a season of many “farewells” in the story, but what would you like to say to the Shogun and the Shinsengumi?
A. If I have something to say, I’ll say it directly.
Q9. Is Ginko an… “ant”?
A. She’s petite enough to swarm a tiny sugar cube.
Q10. Did the resumption of the Gintama anime bring about particular changes in your life?
A. The world still sucks.
Q11. To the fans of the Gintama anime, please leave a message!
A. Try not to get offended by the humor. Thank you.
DAISUKE SAKAGUCHI
Q1. Please tell us how you felt when you heard that the anime Gintama, which you worked for until “Kanketsu-hen”, was returning?
A. Ah, I’ve done it…
Q2. How was the first recording?
A. Nothing has changed.
Q3. What was the most memorable thing about the recording sessions?
A. Saint Seiya, I really like it. I want to be a saint!
Q4. Please tell us your favorite line or scene from this season that left a strong impression on you.
A. It’s Saint Seiya! Especially that fake ending.
Q5. There’s a story about gender reversal in the story. What would you do if you were the opposite sex?
A. Softball.
Q6. There was a conversation about replacing the leading voice actors. Who would you like to be your substitute?
A. Kondou-san.
Q7. Shinpachi tried to change his look. What style do you think would be suitable for him, if he were to change his look?
A. That of a saint.
Q8. It was a season of many “farewells” in the story, but what would you like to say to the Shogun and the Shinsengumi?
A. To the Shinsengumi, I hope we meet again! To the Shogun… Thank you for your hard work.
Q9. You’ve been participating in battle scenes rather naturally lately, what do you think about Shinpachi’s growth?
A. He’s strong as usual. He’s been strong from the beginning. After all, the people that surround him are all quite crazy.
Q10. Did the resumption of the Gintama anime bring about particular changes in your life?
A. Nothing in particular.
Q11. To the fans of the Gintama anime, please leave a message!
A. Just when you thought it was back, it’s finished again (laughs). Hoping to see you again!
RIE KUGIMIYA
Q1. Please tell us how you felt when you heard that the anime Gintama, which you worked for until “Kanketsu-hen”, was returning?
A. I thought “Oh!”. I was feeling so happy about it. I was pretty sure it was the end of the world. “Lies, lies, lies!” I thought, but I was also smiling.
Q2. How was the first recording?
A. I was wondering how many times we’ve been back on the road (laughs). There was nothing different, just the same recording sessions as usual!
Q3. What was the most memorable thing about the recording sessions?
A. We had a lot of activities as the Yorozuya and had tons of fun. At Ryogoku (Gintama Hana Matsuri), I was able to share the atmospheric feeling that Gintama created with so many people, and it was a fulfilling year.
Q4. Please tell us your favorite line or scene from this season that left a strong impression on you.
A. It’s a scene we performed at the Gintama Hana Matsuri, in Ryogoku. It was after Gintoki’s interaction with Takasugi, where he says “We are the three that protect everything. We are the Yorozuya.” “Kaguraaaaaa! Shinpachiiiiiiii! Let’s gooooooooo.” My favorite line is in the scene that follows it: “I’m the Kagura that was born on this planet.”
Q5. There’s a story about gender reversal in the story. What would you do if you were the opposite sex?
A. Cheerleader.
Q6. There was a conversation about replacing the leading voice actors. Who would you like to be your substitute?
A. Kondo-san. I would like to work hard under a generous person.
Q7. Shinpachi tried to change his look. What style do you think would be suitable for Kagura, if she were to change his look?
A. I think anything would look good on her, though I don’t have that image in mind. I’d like to see her in a stylish idol-like outfit.
Q8. It was a season of many “farewells” in the story, but what would you like to say to the Shogun and the Shinsengumi?
A. I was crying during all the recording sessions. I want to see all of you again!
Q9. How would you feel if you had an older brother like Kamui in real life?
A. I would want to fight with him!
Q10. Did the resumption of the Gintama anime bring about particular changes in your life?
A. Well anyway, I received a lot of comments from so many people who were enthusiastic about seeing us back. Most importantly it was fun, it felt fresh every week for me too!
Q11. To the fans of the Gintama anime, please leave a message!
A. Thank you all for your support! Please continue to support the Gintama anime as well as the original work! Thank you very much!
YUKINO SATSUKI
Q1. Please tell us how you felt when you heard that the anime Gintama, which you worked for until “Kanketsu-hen”, was returning?
A. Oh no! No way, it’s happening! It’s Gintama!
Q2. How was the first recording?
A. I’m sorry, I don’t remember…
Q3. What was the most memorable thing about the recording sessions?
A. It was unprecedently serious, and I was very confused, not knowing how to deal with it.
Q4. Please tell us your favorite line or scene from this season that left a strong impression on you.
A. Kondo-san’s entire scene! ♪
Q5. If you were to call out to Kondo as he leaves Edo, what would you say to him?
A. I guess I would say “See you later.”.
Q6. Did the resumption of the Gintama anime bring about particular changes in your life?
A. Towards the second half of the season, I began to feel a lot heavier.
Q7. To the fans of the Gintama anime, please leave a message!
A. Thank you very much for all of your support! I’m looking forward to meeting the Shinsengumi again, just like everyone else. I hope you will continue to support Gintama.
TAKAHASHI MIKAKO
Q1. Please tell us how you felt when you heard that the anime Gintama, which you worked for until “Kanketsu-hen”, was returning.
A. I knew it was going to happen, I knew it. ☆
Q2. How was the first recording?
A. I felt very happy, because I love the cast of Gintama!
Q3. What was the most memorable thing about the recording sessions?
A. Discussing with Akira Ishida about the best comedian of the year (laughs).
Q4. Please tell us your favorite line or scene from this season that left a strong impression on you.
A. “It’s Sekitobaharu!”. The day finally came for me to to even play the horse…!
Q5. There was a gender reversal story, which also featured mascots. What kind of mascot would be best suitable for Otsu and for Sadaharu?
A. Otsu-chan wears a yellow kimono, so she’ll be called Funassyi*! Sadaharu… Well, Sadaharu himself is a mascot, isn’t he?
Q6. Did the resumption of the Gintama anime bring about particular changes in your life?
A. Nothing in particular (laughs). The only thing I can say is that, the number of Gintama fans around me has increased.
Q7. To the fans of the Gintama anime, please leave a message!
A. Hey guys!! Thank you for supporting me, kibi unko! Thank you for your continued support, Necromancer! The “doggie” Sadaharu is also very delightful.
*A yellow Japanese mascot character that represents the city of Funabashi, Chiba.
KAZUYA NAKAI
Q1. Please tell us how you felt when you heard that the anime Gintama, which you worked for until “Kanketsu-hen”, was returning.
A. To be honest, I thought that as long as the original story was going on, this day would come. Of course I was happy, but I was wary of scams and kept my composure.
Q2. What was the most memorable part of the recording sessions of this season?
A. When I was talking with Sugita-kun during the story where he [Hijikata] and Gin-san switched bodies, we both gave up on trying to imitate each other early on, and it felt impressive.
Q3. Please tell us your favorite line and/or scene from this season that left a strong impression on you.
A. The scene that impressed me the most was Sasaki Isaburo’s last words. My favorite lines were “Mohawk car” and “Chinese motor”.
Q4. How do you feel about playing the role in “Farewell, Shinsengumi”, the longest arc in the series?
A. As the serious stories continued, I became more and more attached to the stupid episodes of the past. And I thought it was amazing that the Shinsengumi hadn’t fallen apart but were rather able to keep their bond intact.
Q5. If you had to choose a meal to finish, which one would you pick: Hijikata special or Gintoki Don?
A. Hijikata special! Depending on the amount of mayo, I’d probably like it.
Q6. Did the resumption of the Gintama anime bring about particular changes in your life?
A. For some reason, I think I have been feeling a bit frivolous. I’m reflecting on that.
Q7. To the fans of the Gintama anime, please leave a message!
A. There sure were a lot of adults involved, but the driving force that brought the anime back to life was definitely you. Thank you very much.
KENICHI SUZUMURA
Q1. Please tell us how you felt when you heard that the anime Gintama, which you worked for until “Kanketsu-hen”, was returning.
A. To be honest, I was like, “Give me back that loneliness!” (laughs). At the same time I was like, “I knew it…” (laughs)
Q2. What was the most memorable part of the recording sessions during this season?
A. During the Soul Switch arc, I thought that everyone seemed to be having a hard time, and I thanked Okita for switching bodies with Elizabeth.
Q3. Please tell us your favorite line and/or scene from this season that left a strong impression on you.
A. The last scene of the Shogun Assassination arc is always a highlight for me, no matter how many times I watch it.
Q4. How do you feel about playing the role in “Farewell, Shinsengumi”, the longest arc in the series?
A. I could feel that the work itself was finally coming to an end, and I felt a mix of sadness and happiness that I had been able to play a role in it up to this point.
Q5. Okita has fought many strong characters such as Kamui, Kagura and Nobume, but who do you honestly think is the strongest?
A. Okita. Now that he has accepted defeat, he will become the strongest.
Q6. Did the resumption of the Gintama anime bring about particular changes in your life?
A. There was no particular change in my life… I’m sorry I can’t provide one of my nice comments.
Q7. To the fans of the Gintama anime, please leave a message!
A. I think, this is a revival that happened because everyone’s voice was heard. Around the time of Kanketsu-hen, the great adults clearly said, “It’s really the end.” But the passion for Gintama moved the adults. As a fan of the work, I was really happy to see it return, and I’m grateful for that. I hope you will continue to support us!
SUSUMU CHIBA
Q1. Please tell us how you felt when you heard that the anime Gintama, which you worked for until “Kanketsu-hen”, was returning.
A. I won’t be fooled again! I was honestly happy because I was feeling lonely somewhere in my heart.
Q2. What was the most memorable part of the recording sessions during this season?
A. The gap between the gag and the seriousness was intense. There were many scenes that made me cry in this season, and sometimes I thought “Is this Gintama?”.
Q3. Please tell us your favorite line and/or scene from this season that left a strong impression on you.
A. In the first episode of the Farewell Shinsengumi arc, where Gintoki and Kondou exchange cups of sake. It was impressive to see how they had formed such a strong bond despite their completely different ways of living and thinking.
Q4. How do you feel about playing the role in “Farewell, Shinsengumi”, the longest arc in the series?
A. I’ve been playing a role in Gintama for a while now, and I thought and knew it would lead me to this point. I realized that this is where the story was heading from the beginning. I realized once again that it’s an amazing work, with a magnificent story of characters doing all sorts of crazy stuff.
Q5. The dynamic with Tae has gotten a slightly better vibe. Do you think there will be some progress in the future?
A. There may or may not be, but I do hope there will be some development.
Q6. Did the resumption of the Gintama anime bring about particular changes in your life?
A. I became a bit sensitive to the word “gorilla”.
Q7. To the fans of the Gintama anime, please leave a message!
A. I’m also very happy. The Shinsengumi may be absent from the story for a while, but we’re looking forward to perform them again and seeing you all again, so please keep supporting us, thanks!
TETSUHARU OTA
Q1. Please tell us how you felt when you heard that the anime Gintama, which you worked for until “Kanketsu-hen”, was returning.
A. I didn’t feel like it was over when I saw Kanketsu-hen, so I wasn’t shocked, but happy instead. Though, I was worried about whether or not the “monja” in the blind date episode could be adapted (laughs).
Q2. What was the most memorable part of the recording sessions during this season?
A. The second half of the show was hard, and I got a little emotional during the rehearsal. I was overwhelmed with emotions and felt too nervous.
Q3. Please tell us your favorite line and/or scene from this season that left a strong impression on you.
A. Even though Hijikata had been in the position of deputy chief, leading everyone, when Kondo-san was caught, he lost his way. So later when he said, “I’ve become a member of the Shinsengumi”, I was moved to the bone.
Q4. How do you feel about playing the role in “Farewell, Shinsengumi”, the longest arc in the series?
A. The last inspection report of the Shinsengumi was the most difficult part. Everything that happened up to that point came flooding back to me, and I couldn’t process it well… I felt a little sad within, and hoped that they would make the right choice and set off on a new path.
Q5. Yamazaki’s past has been revealed. What was your honest impression when you saw it?
A. People have all kinds of pasts, dark histories that they don’t want be touched!! That’s how I felt. No but really, I couldn’t help but understand. I think there were a lot of milestones in it. What I’m interested in is the process from then to now (laughs).
Q6. Did the resumption of the Gintama anime bring about particular changes in your life?
A. Eh? What? Are you saying I’m eating more anpan or something? There hasn’t been any increase! Not at all. But, the amount of times I go out to eat monja has increased.
Q7. To the fans of the Gintama anime, please leave a message!
A. I’m also very happy. The Shinsengumi may be absent from the story for a while, but we’re looking forward to perform them again and seeing you all again, so please keep supporting Kondo and I!
AKIRA ISHIDA
Q1. Please tell us how you felt when you heard that the anime Gintama, which you worked for until “Kanketsu-hen”, was returning.
A. My mind is no longer moved by such things. It’s amazing what you can get used to.
Q2. How was your first post-recording session?
A. My mind was calm. I think it’s better than being in the middle of a storm.
Q3. What was the most memorable thing about the recording sessions in this season?
A. I was surprised that the story became very serious.
Q4. Please tell us your favorite line and/or scene from this season that left a strong impression on you.
A. The scene where he [Katsura] enters the prison to rescue Kondo and persuades him saying “Lend me your strength”.
Q5. The joint battle with Kondo was amazing. What do you think is the most charming point of Katsura and Kondou as leaders of their respective organizations?
A. Hijikata and Elizabeth. They are blessed with very close comrades.
Q6. Did the resumption of the Gintama anime bring about particular changes in your life?
A. I wish I could say that there was. Let’s just say it did. Everyday had a silver shine.
Q7. To the fans of the Gintama anime, please leave a message!
A. If everyone wants it, Gintama might free itself from the shackles of conforming to the original story and become a long-lasting show like Sazae-san. By that time, Gin-san will have a buzz cut, Kagura will also get a haircut, and Shinpachi will be Nakajima-kun*. Please note that!
*Bespectacled character from Sazae-san.
FUMIHIKO TACHIKI
Q1. Please tell us how you felt when you heard that the anime Gintama, which you worked for until “Kanketsu-hen”, was returning.
A. No way! Again? Is it true?
Q2. How was your first post-recording session?
A. It was as if nothing had happened; it was like a reunion with familiar faces in a restaurant.
Q3. What was the most memorable thing about the recording sessions in this season?
A. The content was as gross as ever, and everyone was laughing through every single episode.
Q4. Please tell us your favorite line and/or scene from this season that left a strong impression on you.
A. The scene in “I’m Yorozuya and he’s Shinsengumi” (ep. 289), in which Hasegawa Unko shouts out “Remember the teachings of our leadeeeers!”
Q5. Ever since the serious development in the story, your appearances have decreased. How do you feel about that?
A. Well, this is the most serious part of the story, so it’s less humourous.
Q6. Did the resumption of the Gintama anime bring about particular changes in your life?
A. All other roles in the cast are collectively classified under one name now, and I’m not sure what to do.
Q7. To the fans of the Gintama anime, please leave a message!
A. He can’t do anything special, but he’s there. Please continue to watch over this man who is always in a difficult environment.
FUMIKO ORIKASA
Q1. Please tell us how you felt when you heard that the anime Gintama, which you worked for until “Kanketsu-hen”, was returning.
A. I was like “Oh, my God, really?”
Q2. How was your first post-recording session?
A. It was fun as usual.
Q3. What was the most memorable thing about the recording sessions in this season?
A. Kagura’s funeral. It was hard to prevent yourself from laughing at those episodes.
Q4. Please tell us your favorite line and/or scene from this season that left a strong impression on you.
A. “I’ve become 10…”
Q5. There was that Genderbent arc, where Kyuubei temporarily became a man. Male or female, which character were you attracted to the most?
A. I don’t know… Hijikata-san? (laughs)
Q6. Did the resumption of the Gintama anime bring about particular changes in your life?
A. After the resumption of the show, I was asked again, “Oh, Orikasa-san… you’re in Gintama? Are you ok with making dirty jokes?” I’ve been asked this question every day.
Q7. To the fans of the Gintama anime, please leave a message!
A. Thank you for all your support. Long live the resumption! We hope you have a good laugh. And if goes on and on… let’s observe the end of the road together.
YUKO KAIDA
Q1. Please tell us how you felt when you heard that the anime Gintama, which you worked for until “Kanketsu-hen”, was returning.
A. It didn’t feel disappointing! I knew it would recommence, I knew it!
Q2. How was the first recording session?
A. Well, Tsukuyo has now gone down the comical route. However, the studio sessions are the same as always.
Q3. What was the most memorable thing about the recording sessions in this season?
A. Gintama recording sessions, but without Sugita and his friends in the studio. I wanted to see that.
Q4. Please tell us your favorite line and/or scene from this season that left a strong impression on you.
A. Gintoki’s apology conference. I was beyond impressed!
Q5. There was that Genderbent arc, where Tsukuyo temporarily became a man. Male or female, which character were you attracted to the most?
A. Pink glasses Shinpachi!
Q6. Did the resumption of the Gintama anime bring about particular changes in your life?
A. Unfortunately, no it hasn’t.
Q7. To the fans of the Gintama anime, please leave a message!
A. Enjoy Gintama to the fullest, as it gets more powerful!
TAKAHIRO SAKURAI
Q1. Please tell us what you thought when you heard that the anime Gintama, which aired until “Kanketsu-hen”, was returning.
A. I thought it was a difficult role. How to make the “Z” sound, that was the pinnacle of it.
Q2. How was the first recording session?
A. I felt the stability of the troupe, something solid that has been built up over the years.
Q3. What was the most memorable thing about the recording sessions in this season?
A. The line “Z”. The scene was very difficult with the voice changer stuff. It’s hard to make it sound like him.
Q4. Saito appeared as a character of the Shinsengumi in the middle of the season. Did you feel any pressure?
A. There was no pressure. I went into it with the mentality that something would be done. I think it worked out.
Q5. Due to his nature, Saito has very few lines to say. What would you like to see from him?
A. I’d be happy even if he didn’t have to speak, as long as he was in the picture. I would be satisfied if he could just say “Z” from time to time.
Q6. Did the resumption of the Gintama anime bring about particular changes in your life?
A. No, nothing particular.
Q7. To the fans of the Gintama anime, please leave a message!
A. This is Takahiro Sakurai as Saito Shimaru. It’s a unique work, and I’m honored to be a part of it. Congratulations on your return!
SATOSHI HINO
Q1. Please tell us what you thought when you heard that the anime Gintama, which aired until “Kanketsu-hen”, was returning.
A. Frankly speaking, I was really glad. I was really hoping that Kamui will still be adapted in the anime.
Q2. How was the first recording session?
A. It was fun like always! Gintama is very interesting as a piece of work, and there are so many senior actors in the cast, so I can get a lot of inspiration from them.
Q3. What was the most memorable thing about the recording sessions in this season?
A. Not only during this season, but the voice acting cast of Gintama are all very close, so we often go out for dinner together when we have time after recording.
Q4. Please tell us your favorite line or scene from this season that left a strong impression on you.
A. The most memorable of this season for me was the confrontation between Kagura and Kamui. Until that point, I’ve never seen siblings fight each other with their emotions. I particularly put a lot of emotions into the line “Because I’m her big brother.”.
Q5. Kamui enjoys fighting like Goku, so who do you think would be an interesting opponent to fight against?
A. Kamui himself wants to battle Takasugi, but I personally think that a fight with Oboro would be interesting. Or a battle between the Yato tribe and the group of assassins under the control of the Tendoshu.
Q6. Did the resumption of the Gintama anime bring about particular changes in your life?
A. There haven’t been any big changes in my life (laughs), although I was really looking forward to the recording sessions. I’ve always received a lot of letters from Kamui fans. So cute!
Q7. To the fans of the Gintama anime, please leave a message!
A. Thank you to all the fans who support Gintama. Thanks to your support, the Gintama anime has been revived from its scam. Please continue to support us for the continuation of this scam.
KEIJI FUJIWARA
Q1. Please tell us what you thought when you heard that the anime Gintama, which aired until “Kanketsu-hen”, was returning.
A. Well, I wasn’t surprised because it’s possible with Gintama.
Q2. How was the first recording session?
A. It was fun, but I was a bit confused because everything was so cool.
Q3. What was the most memorable thing about the recording sessions in this season?
A. There was no hemorrhoid story.
Q4. Please tell us your favorite line or scene from this season that left a strong impression on you.
A. The whole thing was sick.
Q5. What would you like to say to your friend, the Shogun, who has been your friend since you were little?
A. We’ll always be friends, won’t we?
Q6. Did the resumption of the Gintama anime bring about particular changes in your life?
A. My luck has increased.
Q7. To the fans of the Gintama anime, please leave a message!
A. It feels great.
YU KOBAYASHI
Q1. Please tell us what you thought when you heard that the anime Gintama, which aired until “Kanketsu-hen”, was returning.
A. I was very sad because I thought that my favourite, Gintama, would end with Kanketsu-hen. But when I was told about the revival, I was extremely moved. I was very happy that I was given a beautiful surprise.
Q2. How was the first recording session?
A. I was incredibly happy to play the role in the story about spying Gin-san through a mirror. I was happy because I was able to perform with the Yorozuya for the first time in a long time, so I gave it my all. I was also impressed by the fact that Sacchan was able to play the straight man role on Shinpachi and Kagura. It’s a story that’s very important to me.
Q3. What was the most memorable thing about the recording sessions in this season?
A. The atmosphere on the set of the Shogun Assassination arc. I’ve always been part of the cast, but this was an entirely different atmosphere. I treasure the time I spent with everyone in that wonderful atmosphere of tension.
Q4. Please tell us your favorite line or scene from this season that left a strong impression on you.
A. The Shogun Assassination is a very special story for me, and it has left a deep impression on me. I was moved by the way each character tried to fulfill their mission in their own respective ways. I’d like to begin from the scene where Sacchan carries Zenzou over her shoulder and vows “We’re all going to live and go home together”, and the scene in which refers to Zenzou as “Boss”.
Q5. Sacchan is very active as a ninja. Is there any ninjutsu that you would like to learn?
A. I would like to be friends with the ones in the Oniwaban just like Sacchan, and run around together with them.
Q6. Did the resumption of the Gintama anime bring about particular changes in your life?
A. The people around me (especially my mother) have been offering their support.
Q7. To the fans of the Gintama anime, please leave a message!
A. Thank you to everyone who has always supported Gintama. It is thanks to all the fans who supported the series that the anime was able to return. When I participated in the Gintama Hana Matsuri, where I had the chance to meet Gintama fans, I was met with warm smiles by everyone. I had a very wonderful time, full of love. I was able to realize once again how wonderful the work Gintama is, by spending time with all the amazing fans. I felt the passion of the of all the staff and cast members who support the anime, and I’m grateful to be part of it. I would like to continue to play my favorite character, Sacchan, with all my might. I will also continue to do my best as Gin-san’s whore! Thank you all for your continued support!
YUKI ONO
Q1. Please tell us what you thought when you heard that the anime Gintama, which aired until “Kanketsu-hen”, was returning.
A. Great!!!
Q2. How was the first recording session?
A. I already read the original story, so the director said to me “Shogun, you’ve been looking so sad from the beginning! Sugita-san felt the same way. He seemed to feel the same way about me on the day of the performance, which reminded me how difficult it is to “play with all your heart” and “put your heart into it”.
Q3. What was the most memorable thing about the recording sessions in this season?
A. I have numerous precious memories, but one of the most memorable was after the launch of the Gintama Hana Matsuri event, where Sugita-san said to me “I’m glad to have met you”. As a shogun, as a junior in the cast, as an actor… I was really happy and proud to hear him, because it meant a lot to me.
Q4. Please tell us your favorite line or scene from this season that left a strong impression on you.
A. It’s “Even if I’ve gone back to being just a brother, the tea you make is still lukewarm.” … I wish Shigeshige could have spent such an ordinary day with his precious sister. I can’t help thinking that, because it’s a scene I’ll never forget.
Q5. What did you think of the development of the Shogun Assassination arc, and the Shogun’s last scene?
A. Honestly, it was an unpredictable development right from the start, due to Shigeshige being a character who rarely changed over the years. At the beginning of the Shogun Assassination arc, they were all like “Shadow juice squirt!”. That’s what they were doing. Even though it was a serious arc, there were moments of laughter. So… I’d like to contain my tears.
Q6. Did the resumption of the Gintama anime bring about particular changes in your life?
A. We went to visit the grave of Iemochi, the model of Shigeshige. But by mistake, we went to the grave of Lord Yoshinobu, the model of Nobunobu! Of all places…! Later, we were able to pay our respects to Lord Iemochi, but honestly, we felt a bit nervous.
Q7. To the fans of the Gintama anime, please leave a message!
A. Above all, I want it myself. Gintama… No, I want Shigeshige to return! It’s just a temporary wish, of course. If you honestly accept the truth, you’ll accept what is been portrayed in the story. So if anything, I really appreciate your hard work until now. But I can’t help but wishing for a future where we can laugh again… It would be nice, wouldn’t it, my friend?
TOSHIYUKI MORIKAWA
Q1. Please tell us what you thought when you heard that the anime Gintama, which aired until “Kanketsu-hen”, was returning.
A. Yay! I can type e-mails again!
Q2. What was the most memorable thing about the recording sessions in this season?
A. What made me happy was that I had a lot of lines to play. But there were a lot of tough lines too, so it was hard for me (laughs).
Q3. Please tell us your favorite line or scene from this season that left a strong impression on you.
A. “I’m glad I believed in you. You have many friends…” Any more than that and I’ll burst into tears, so please don’t!
Q4. What did you think of Isaburo and Nobume’s relationship as it became clearer?
A. It was so dramatic that I couldn’t do anything. It’s really a sad story.
Q5. Sasaki likes sending emails, but do you like to communicate with your colleagues by e-mail?
A. I often use email for working. But personally, I prefer to listen to the voice of the person I’m talking to.
Q6. Did the resumption of the Gintama anime bring about particular changes in your life?
A. I have received my performance fee and my life has been enriched. Thank you very much, I’ll eat meat with this! Thank you very much, Gintama!
Q7. To the fans of the Gintama anime, please leave a message!
A. It is thanks to you, the fans, that I am able to play Sasaki Isaburo again in this way, and through you, I have met this very popular work called Gintama. And also Nobume-san, whom I met by fate. It is the greatest pleasure for me to be able to play this role until the end. Please enjoy this season’s Gintama!
AYA HIRANO
Q1. Please tell us what you thought when you heard that the anime Gintama, which aired until “Kanketsu-hen”, was returning.
A. As a Gintama fan, I was hoping that it would never end, so I was delighted to see that my expectations were met! But at the same time, I was very nervous to play a part in the serious development of the story. And finally, that time came…
When I was recording for the Courtesan Of A Nation arc, I heard that Nobume was going to play an active role in the series, so I have actually been nervous from that time. I was prepared for it, so I had to brace myself.
Q2. What was the most memorable thing about the recording sessions in this season?
A. I could feel the spirit of everyone playing their respective roles, and I was overwhelmed every time, during the recording sessions. I’m a newcomer to Gintama, probably the youngest among the regulars, so I felt motivated by everyone’s love for their roles and sense of teamwork that they’ve built over the years. Thanks to the leadership of the senior members of the team, I’m also able to act freely with a good sense of tension. I’m very happy to have been part of such a wonderful scene.
Q3. Please tell us your favorite line or scene from this season that left a strong impression on you.
A. I think that every single episode was divine. I can’t help but have too many favorite scenes and dialogues outside of my own character. Everyone is too cool. If I had to pick one, it would be Kagura’s words to Nobume. The words “Don’t cry anymore, don’t lie to yourself anymore” and “This earth is a free planet, you can live the way you want to live” were very moving. My favorite, but also absolutely unforgettable line is Isaburo’s last line. I want to keep it in my heart forever.
Q4. What did you think of the relationship between Sasaki and Nobume as you played her?
A. I was surprised, but it made a lot of sense: both of them had nothing left each other, and even though they were enemies, they had forgiven each other long ago, but hid their true feelings from each other until they made amends. Nobume’s words, “I wanted to be next to someone, even if they called me an enemy” and “The reason why you and I are next to each other is more than enough”, speak for themselves. Both Isaburo and Nobume had a heavy sense of guilt and their worst enemy was themselves, which is why they wanted so much to change themselves and live in a world where they could be free.
He was an enemy, father and comrade, and even if he was sloppy with his words or with his emails, they understood each other and found meaning in being together through the days they spent together. And then there’s the origin of the name; When I understood the meaning behind the name, I also understood the deep love Isaburo had for Nobume. I think that they were each other’s hope for life. Also, I’d like to thank Mr. Morikawa, who played the role of Isaburo, for letting me play this part alongside him. I’ve been working with him since my debut as a voice actor, so he’s been watching me since I was just a kid. I was happy to have been able to act in a relationship like that of Isaburo and Nobume.
Q5. What is your favorite doughnut?
A. I like old fashioned doughnuts the best. When Nobume first appeared in the series, she also had a craving for Pon De Ring, but it was the unorthodox type that she ate in her childhood flashbacks, so I related to her, as I realized her tastes have changed as she grew up.
Q6. Did the resumption of the Gintama anime bring about particular changes in your life?
A. When I played the role of Nobume first, there were lots of mysteries and she was even more mysterious, but this time, I wanted to bring out the hidden human side of her, so I changed the process of emotional expression a bit. When I voice Nobume, I always pay attention to the fact that I can turn off my emotion at any time with the flip of a switch. I don’t want to express too much emotion that comes from nothing. Always keep it simple. It’s very difficult to do that in anime, so I try to stay on the edge of the line where there’s no mismatch. That’s why I’ve been practicing a lot on a daily basis to control my emotions. I’ve received a lot of feedback and many people have said that they didn’t realize it was me voicing Nobume until now. It’s a great honor to be an actor.
Q7. To the fans of the Gintama anime, please leave a message!
A. The Shogun Assassination arc and Farewell Shinsengumi arc have been both breathtaking and I’m looking forward to seeing more. It was an important experience for me as Nobume. Thank you very much. Thank you very much for your continued support.
Yorozuya Shinigami 