Ayane Sakura is one of the most popular voice actors in the current anime industry. She is the voice behind Ochaco Uraraka in My Hero Academia, and many other well-known characters.
Sakura has recently shared how the perception of anime and voice acting has drastically changed over the years. This can be seen from the fame and recognition that voice actors have been getting recently. Actors like Ayane Sakura, Aleks Le, are stellar examples of this new trend.
The voice behind many iconic characters
In a radio segment with Nogizaka46 idol Nagi Inoue, Ayane Sakura has reflected on how being an anime fan was once met with ridicule. This is true even more so when seen on a global level. There were many times when anime was obstructed or alienated due to being ‘cartoons’ or ‘for children’.
Sakura said that when she was in her student days, anyone who was openly interested in anime would be labeled “Akiba-kei” and mocked by all others.
To be honest, when I was a student, if you heard “anime”, you would be called “Akiba-kei” and made fun of, and even if you told your relatives that you were “(seriously) aiming to be a voice actor”, you would be teased. It was a time when it wasn’t very accepted. But now, there are more celebrities who openly declare that they “like anime”, and I think “we’ve finally reached this era”.
It was even worse when someone wanted to pursue a career in voice acting. Even her relatives doubted her decision, teasing her for pursuing a profession that wasn’t really seen as a job.
However, the times have changed and the modern world has embraced anime with open hands. Many anime like Demon Slayer, Jujutsu Kaisen, and Solo Leveling have gained wide spread fame, even getting theatrical releases across the world.
The industry’s evolution and rising popularity
Today, it is a matter of pride for voice actors to come out and call themselves the ‘voice’ of the character. And liking anime is not ostracized and in fact, very soon, it might be the opposite. There is no dearth of celebrities who are fans of anime and proudly express their love for it.
Due to being the ‘soul of the characters’, voice acting has become a very respected career. For Sakura, who was lucky to be in an era and witness this shift, it feels like a long-awaited victory.
Her determination to follow her passion despite the many critics and doubters is admirable and paid off, making her a much pursued voice actor.
Sakura continues to dominate the industry in Winter 2025 season as well. She is playing Takao Ameku in Ameku M.D.: Doctor Detective, Lu Shaotang in Sakamoto Days, and Arche in Farmagia. With each role, she is bolstering her reputation as a top-tier voice actor and make her an industry known name.
Voice actors deserve more recognition. They are an integral part of the anime industry, and only with proper talent can they portray their roles perfectly, bringing them to life.
This post belongs to FandomWire and first appeared on FandomWire
