Warning: This article contains spoilers for Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX: Beginning.
The recent release of Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX: Beginning has left fans of both the One Piece series and the Gundam franchise concerned about the potential retirement of voice actor Shuichi Ikeda, well-known for his role as Shanks in One Piece. Long before his celebrated portrayal of Shanks, Ikeda gained fame as the voice of Char Aznable in the revered Mobile Suit Gundam franchise. His enduring association with Char has made this character the hallmark of Ikeda’s illustrious career.
Alternate Voices: Char Aznable’s Different Portrayals
GQuuuuuuX Introduces Yet Another Voice for Char Aznable
Although it may come as a surprise to some that Shuichi Ikeda is not the voice behind Char Aznable in GQuuuuuuX, this is not a first for the franchise. Previously, Ikeda’s character was voiced by Katsuyuki Konishi in Mobile Suit Gundam-san, a comical version of the franchise. Additionally, Toshihiko Seki voiced Char during his brief appearance in Gundam Build Fighters: Battlogue. While Ikeda is synonymous with Char Aznable, he has not been the voice actor for every iteration, suggesting that his absence in GQuuuuuuX does not necessarily imply retirement.
However, the implications of this change are noteworthy. The earlier occurrences where another actor voiced Char were either for brief, humorous appearances or in less serious contexts, making Ikeda’s absence less concerning. In contrast, GQuuuuuuX stands as a key installment in the main Gundam series, heightening the significance of Ikeda’s non-participation and understandably sparking worry among fans regarding his future in the industry.
The Potential Impact of Ikeda’s Retirement on Fans
The potential retirement of Shuichi Ikeda would constitute a significant loss for both One Piece and Gundam enthusiasts. Since Shanks has been a cornerstone character since the outset of One Piece, Ikeda’s departure would resonate deeply, especially following the recent retirement of Kazuki Yao, known for voicing Franky. Many fans hope to witness the conclusion of the One Piece narrative alongside its original voice actors, and Ikeda’s retirement would unfortunately mark another voice actor leaving the legacy early.
For Gundam fans, the stakes are even higher. Ikeda’s portrayal of Char Aznable has left an indelible mark, solidifying Char as Gundam’s most iconic antagonist and one of anime’s celebrated villains. Losing Ikeda would mean depriving the community of one of the foundational figures behind the enduring success of Gundam over more than four decades. Should Ikeda’s retirement be imminent, fans are eager for a timely announcement, yet hope that such news will be delayed as long as possible.
Leave a Reply