Overview of Chō’s Voice Acting Career
- Chō has voiced numerous memorable characters, showcasing his comedic and diverse voice skills.
- He excels in portraying hilarious comedic roles, as seen through characters like Principal Shinonome and Genma Saotome.
- His contributions to popular action shōnen series include titles such as Hunter x Hunter, The Seven Deadly Sins, and JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure.
The ensemble of the Straw Hat Pirates in One Piece features exceptionally distinct and memorable characters. Among them, Brook, the eccentric musician known as the “Soul King, ”stands out as a living skeleton with a whimsical personality and a captivating singing voice. The unique charm of Brook is largely credited to his voice actor, Chō, who has delivered an unforgettable portrayal over the years.
With a prolific career spanning over three decades in the anime industry, Chō’s role as Brook is undoubtedly iconic. However, his portfolio includes a multitude of beloved characters that have also left a significant mark on his career. Below are some of the standout roles that define Chō’s impressive body of work.
1 Jaken
InuYasha
Before embracing the role of Brook, Chō gained acclaim for voicing Jaken, Sesshōmaru’s loyal and often comedic servant, in the beloved series InuYasha. Chō’s high-pitched tone and affinity for eccentric characters contributed to making Jaken one of his standout performances. His continued dedication to the character was evident when he reprised the role for the 2021 spin-off, Yashahime: Princess Half-Demon.
2 Principal Shinonome
Nichijou
In the acclaimed surreal comedy Nichijou, Chō voiced the hilariously eccentric Principal Shinonome, a character known for his absurd antics. One of the series’ most notable scenes features the Principal engaging in a comical wrestling match with a deer. Chō’s exceptional comedic timing and vibrant delivery brought this memorable moment to life, earning him recognition even among those who have yet to see the entire series.
3 Genma Saotome
Ranma ½ (2024)
Chō took on the challenge of voicing Genma Saotome in the 2024 reboot of Ranma ½, a role initially played by Kenichi Ogata. Genma’s character, while lighthearted, displays strict and cowardly traits, marking a departure from the more whimsical roles Chō typically portrays. His skillful approach rendered Genma a nuanced character, although the majority of his interactions come after he transforms into a panda, limiting his dialogue.
4 Wilson Phillips and Dragon’s Dream
JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
Chō also made his mark in the iconic series JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure. He debuted as Wilson Phillips, an American senator subjected to a dark and harrowing narrative orchestrated by Dio. Chō displayed his versatility in this role, transitioning to a more serious performance. He later voiced Dragon’s Dream in the sixth installment, lending his signature humor to a character that embodies the bizarre nature of the series.
5 Bonolenov Time
Hunter x Hunter (2011)
Chō continued to embrace the eccentric in his role as Bonolenov Ndongo in the 2011 adaptation of Hunter x Hunter. This character mirrors some aspects of Brook, featuring a design reminiscent of classic movie monsters while incorporating musical elements into his narrative. Chō’s performance effectively paralleled his portrayal of Brook while still offering distinct qualities that resonated with the fandom.
6 Golgius
The Seven Deadly Sins
In The Seven Deadly Sins, Chō voiced Golgius, a member of the Holy Knights referred to as the Weird Fangs. Golgius’s unconventional appearance and demeanor provided a fitting canvas for Chō’s distinctive voice work. Despite revealing a more attractive side later in the series, his portrayal retained the character’s inherent humor, making Golgius memorable beyond the typical sidekick roles.
7 Thief
Sand Land
Further showcasing his range, Chō voiced Thief in the recent adaptation of Akira Toriyama’s Sand Land. As Beelzebub’s royal adviser, Thief navigates a variety of comedic situations while acting as the voice of reason amid chaos. Chō’s performance struck a balance between humor and wisdom, bringing depth to the character. He also reprised his role in the Sand Land video game, underscoring his commitment to the character’s development.
8 Solution
Hell’s Paradise
In a more subdued role, Chō voiced Hōko in the anime adaptation of Hell’s Paradise. His character, a villager transformed by Arborification, navigates a tragic narrative entwined with themes of love and loss as Mei’s adoptive father. Chō’s performance deviates from his comedic roots, skillfully capturing the emotional nuances of this poignant story. His ability to deliver such a heartfelt portrayal adds to the complexity of his character repertoire.
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