Overview
- Natsuki Hanae’s exceptional voice work has brought characters like Tanjiro Kamado, Ken Takakura, and Falco Grice to life across various anime.
- He demonstrates remarkable skill in portraying kind-hearted boys, fierce monsters, and intricate figures like Ken Kaneki and 9S.
- Hanae’s notable performance as Hiroshi Odokawa in “Odd Taxi”highlights his impressive vocal versatility and artistic range.
Tanjiro Kamado, the central figure from the acclaimed anime series Demon Slayer, has garnered immense popularity among fans for multiple reasons—his appealing design, compassionate nature, and remarkable combat abilities. However, it’s his portrayal by the talented voice actor Natsuki Hanae that truly enhances his character’s appeal in the anime.
Natsuki Hanae is a distinguished veteran of the anime industry, with a career spanning nearly 14 years. His impressive repertoire includes a vast array of celebrated roles, showcasing his exceptional range and intense dedication to his craft. Below, we explore some of his most memorable performances.
8. Ken Kaneki
Tokyo Ghoul
Natsuki Hanae’s career took off with his role as Ken Kaneki in the 2014 adaptation of Tokyo Ghoul. Portraying a once timid young man who transforms into a covert ghoul after a life-altering event, Hanae skillfully navigated Kaneki’s drastic character evolution.
Expert at voicing both gentle characters and darker personas, Hanae’s performance brilliantly captured Kaneki’s complex journey as he grapples with his identity and newfound powers. Should Tokyo Ghoul receive a new adaptation aimed at sticking closer to the manga’s narrative, fans will undoubtedly call for Hanae’s return as the lead.
7. Ken Takakura (Okarun)
Taste
Thirteen years later, Hanae took on another pivotal role as Ken Takakura (Okarun) in the lighter series Dandadan. Unlike Kaneki, Okarun’s character is infused with humor and charm, showcasing a broader emotional range.
Okarun is whimsical and passionate, especially about extraterrestrial themes, while also exuding a caring romance. Hanae’s performance mirrors elements of both Kaneki and Tanjiro, effectively building chemistry with his co-star, Shion Wakayama, who voices Momo Ayase, further enhancing their characters’ delightful relationship.
6. Falco Grice
Attack on Titan
In the gripping fourth season of Attack on Titan, Hanae voiced Falco Grice, a character who embodies the essence of a shōnen protagonist. As an Eldian child warrior serving Marley, Falco’s journey is rich with emotional depth.
Hanae excelled in depicting Falco’s kind nature and tragic hope, especially during poignant scenes, such as that fateful moment when he transforms into a Titan while grieving his brother, Colt. His chemistry with Ayane Sakura, who voices Gabi, beautifully weaves their intertwined stories throughout the series.
5. Beam
Chainsaw Man
In the anime adaptation of Chainsaw Man, Natsuki Hanae portrayed Beam, the Shark Fiend, in a brief yet unforgettable role. This character stands out for his eccentric and wild nature, marking a departure from Hanae’s usual roles.
Beam’s character exudes sadistic joy in chaos, and Hanae’s distinctive raspy voice effectively conveyed Beam’s manic energy, making it one of his most entertaining performances. Fans are eager for Hanae’s return as Beam in the anticipated Reze Arc movie and future Chainsaw Man seasons.
4. Gremmy Thoumeaux
Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War
In a notable shift, Hanae voiced Gremmy Thoumeaux, an antagonistic character in Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War, diverging from his typical heroic roles. Gremmy’s unique powers make him a formidable foe in Yhwach’s forces, creating a compelling contrast to Hanae’s usually honorable characters.
Utilizing his overpowering Quincy ability, Hanae’s portrayal illustrated Gremmy’s pride and villainy, especially in his intense battle with Kenpachi Zaraki. This performance demonstrated Hanae’s ability to embody a compelling antagonist, creating a character that audiences could both loathe and sympathize with.
3. Kōsei Arima
Your Lie in April
In the heartwarming drama Your Lie In April, Natsuki Hanae portrayed Kōsei Arima, showcasing another dimension of his talent. This series, which shifts away from the action-oriented anime, required a more nuanced and emotional approach from Hanae.
His exceptional delivery in this slower-paced narrative helped establish Your Lie In April as a beloved series, intensified by his remarkable chemistry with Risa Taneda, who voiced Kaori Miyazono. Notably, Hanae’s vocal performance during musical scenes, particularly his rendition of “Sentimental Rain, ”captured the audience’s hearts, demonstrating his multifaceted abilities.
2. YoRHa No.9 Type S (9S)
Nier: Automata Ver1.1a
Natsuki Hanae has recently delivered a standout performance as YoRHa No.9 Type S (or 9S) in the anime adaptation of Nier: Automata Ver1.1a. This character, resembling a young boy, is a scanner-type android characterized by intelligence, curiosity, and an endearing kindness.
Like many figures in the Nier: Automata universe, 9S harbors complex layers and hidden truths. Building upon his previous role as 9S in the video game’s Japanese dub, Hanae brilliantly continues to develop this beloved character, resonating deeply with fans.
1. Hiroshi Odokawa
Odd Taxi
Natsuki Hanae’s versatility shines brightly in his portrayal of Hiroshi Odokawa from the strikingly original series Odd Taxi. Unlike the youthful heroes he often embodies, Odokawa is a middle-aged anthropomorphic walrus navigating life as a quiet taxi driver.
His nuanced performance captures Odokawa’s introverted yet caring personality, showcasing Hanae’s remarkable skill in transforming into a character that defies traditional anime archetypes. This role stands as a testament to Hanae’s talent, demonstrating his ability to portray even the most unexpected characters with authenticity.
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