Overview
- Dr. Skinner, an acclaimed scientist, is recognized for creating HAPNA, a painkiller with unexpected repercussions.
- Dr. Skinner’s intention is to wield HAPNA as a means of punishing humanity, leading to potential fatalities.
- Amid widespread unrest, Task Force Lazarus strives to locate Dr. Skinner and restore hope.
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MAPPA’s original anime, Lazarus, features Dr. Skinner as one of its central figures, alongside Axel Gilberto and the Task Force Lazarus crew. The premiere episode effectively portrays Dr. Skinner as both a beacon of hope and a harbinger of destruction for mankind, raising the question of his identity and intentions.
Voiced by renowned Japanese seiyuu Koichi Yamadera—known for iconic roles in Cowboy Bebop, Dragon Ball Super, and Gintama—Dr. Skinner’s character is further brought to life in English by David Matranga, recognized for his work in Blue Lock, Classroom of the Elite, and Golden Kamuy.
This article may contain spoilers from the Lazarus anime.
Who Is Dr. Skinner?
A Saint and a Reaper in One Body
- First Appearance: Lazarus Episode 1
- Field of Expertise: Neuroscientist
- Notable Creation: HAPNA Painkiller
Dr. Skinner stands out as a brilliant scientist admired for both his intellect and humanitarian outlook. Regarded as a savior by many, his advocacy for peace and equality resonates deeply. Celebrated as the architect of HAPNA, he developed a painkiller that offers effects previously unseen by mankind. His success propelled him to fame, only for his subsequent disappearance to raise countless questions.
“If you find yourself unable to feel any kind of pain, then that is no different from being dead.”—Dr. Skinner
Even while Dr. Skinner remains elusive, HAPNA has become a staple for many, being affordable, side-effect-free, and readily available. The drug quickly gained traction by alleviating various forms of human suffering, allowing individuals to live pain-free lives. However, unbeknownst to its advocates, HAPNA conceals a more sinister agenda—a catastrophic trap designed by Dr. Skinner himself.
What Is Dr. Skinner’s Goal?
The Contents of Dr. Skinner’s Shocking Video Announcement
In a viral video announcement, Dr. Skinner declares his intent to use HAPNA to penalize humanity for its moral failings. He perceives humanity’s essence as fundamentally corrupt, attributing this to a relentless pursuit of immediate gratification that leads to loss of lives and environmental degradation. He further argues that humanity’s disconnect from pain signifies a metaphorical death.
“Can we allow this evil to continue?”—Dr. Skinner
Dr. Skinner has engineered HAPNA to mutate and ultimately eliminate those who consume it. Lamentably, there is no antidote or means to cleanse the substance from the bloodstream. Nevertheless, Dr. Skinner claims to possess a cure, placing humanity’s fate squarely in their hands—should they manage to procure it in time. Yet, he insists he does not seek to assume a God-like stance over humanity’s fate, labeling himself merely as the world’s seventh trumpeter.
The Issue at Hand
Finding Dr. Skinner and Securing the Cure
Dr. Skinner’s proclamation has brought society to a breaking point, instigating widespread panic. As chaos erupted globally, riots unfolded, pharmaceutical facilities were vandalized, and cities fell into disarray. A staggering crash on the NYSE compounded the tumultuous atmosphere.
“You have 30 days. If humanity can find me within that time, then humanity will survive.”—Dr. Skinner
Once a cherubic figure devoted to aiding humanity, Dr. Skinner has transformed into a symbol of impending doom. Simply waiting for a potential cure is not an option, as the timeline is short and the need urgent.
There’s Still Hope
Despite the looming threat, a glimmer of hope persists for humanity. Should someone successfully locate Dr. Skinner, they could access the cure and potentially facilitate its mass production, revitalizing the chances of survival for countless individuals. However, pinpointing the resourceful scientist proves challenging, leaving many unsure of how to proceed.
Time is of the essence, and a select group must embark on the critical mission to find Dr. Skinner. While the world struggles with the aftermath of his announcement, Task Force Lazarus embodies the perseverance needed to restore hope. It’s fascinating to consider that a mere prisoner could hold the key to saving billions. As new episodes of Lazarus release, further layers of this gripping narrative continue to unfold.