This article contains spoilers from One Piece.
Highlights
- Kazuki Yao, the voice behind Franky for nearly two decades, has announced his departure from the role.
- Yao leaves an enduring legacy as one of One Piece’s most cherished voice actors.
- Fans are eagerly anticipating the announcement of Franky’s new voice actor at Jump Festa 2025.
Table of Contents
- Franky’s Voice Actor Steps Down from His Role
- The Legacy Left Behind by Kazuki Yao
- Who Will Replace Kazuki Yao as Franky’s Voice Actor?
Franky’s Voice Actor Steps Down from His Role
Fans of One Piece were recently taken aback by the revelation that Kazuki Yao, the iconic voice actor of Franky, will be stepping down after a remarkable career spanning two decades. Yao’s contribution is especially significant given that he has also lent his voice to other characters in the series, including Bon Clay and Django. However, it is Franky, the exuberant cyborg shipwright, for which he is most fondly remembered. Known for his vibrant personality, Franky’s characterization was brought to life through Yao’s distinctive voice performance.
At an advanced age and facing health challenges, Yao’s decision comes as no surprise. Observant fans have noted changes in his physical condition over the years, reinforcing the reality that voice acting demands considerable energy and dedication. Nevertheless, his legacy of unforgettable performances remains, particularly during memorable arcs such as Enies Lobby, where Franky made significant contributions with moments that resonated deeply with viewers.
The time has come for a sad farewell Farewell to the dude I’ve spent almost a quarter of a century with… It kinda felt like an out of body experience, but I feel like a gap has formed between me and the Franky I envision… and so, I’ve decided to get off of the Sunny for now. I feel frustrated! I feel sad!! I’m really sorry However, we’ve found a suuuperrrr replacement! Look forward to the announcement on December 22nd at Jump Festa! – Kazuki Yao
The Legacy Left Behind by Kazuki Yao
Kazuki Yao: A Beloved Pillar of One Piece
Kazuki Yao’s portrayal of Franky has been nothing short of extraordinary, marking him as one of the primary voices behind the character’s journey from antagonist to integral member of the Straw Hat crew. Introduced in the Water 7 Arc, Franky’s initial position as an adversary quickly transformed into camaraderie with the Straw Hat Pirates, showcasing Yao’s range as a voice actor in encapsulating both the character’s complexity and charm.
Throughout the series, Franky has delivered pivotal moments, especially during the intense Enies Lobby arc, where he famously destroyed plans for the notorious Pluton, showcasing a blend of humor and heroism. Yao’s delivery of profound lines has also left a lasting impact on fans. One of Franky’s memorable quotes, “Existing is never a crime,” resonates with audiences and reflects Yao’s ability to elevate Franky’s narrative depth.
The nuances of Franky’s character, from comic relief to fierce loyalty towards Luffy, were expertly articulated by Yao. His voice became synonymous with Franky’s spirited nature, adding vibrancy and energy to the story’s arcs from Thriller Bark to Dressrosa and beyond, particularly in the Wano arc. Yao’s dedication to portraying a character who isn’t afraid to dream big or show emotion ensured Franky remains a fan favorite.
Who Will Replace Kazuki Yao as Franky’s Voice Actor?
For Now, Kazuki Yao’s Replacement Remains Unknown
As of now, the identity of Kazuki Yao’s successor as Franky’s voice actor remains a mystery. There is anticipation within the fan community, with the announcement slated for Jump Festa 2025, a highly awaited event in the One Piece calendar. Speculation suggests that the new actor could potentially be Wataru Takagi, known for voicing Full Body, but this remains purely conjectural.
Scheduled for December 21-22, 2025, Jump Festa will feature a dedicated One Piece stage on December 22, where fans will have the opportunity to catch the live reveal on YouTube, marking a significant moment in the franchise’s history.
With the beloved Kazuki Yao taking a step back, the journey ahead for Franky—and the voice actor who will take on this new role—remains to be seen.
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