At the recent Jump Festa 2024, a significant milestone was announced for the acclaimed anime One Piece. Kazuki Yao, the beloved voice actor for Franky, has officially retired from his role as the charismatic cyborg mechanic. This news has undoubtedly sent ripples through the fan community, as it marks a major shift in the dynamics of the Straw Hat crew. However, the vacancy left by Yao is now being filled by a new talent—Kimura Subaru—who took to the stage, ready to breathe new life into Franky’s character.
The excitement for Kimura’s debut was palpable as One Piece returned from a brief hiatus. This break not only allowed the manga to catch up but also provided the animators with some much-deserved time off. Early clips circulating on social media, such as those shared by @pewpiece, are generating buzz on how Kimura’s interpretation aligns with the established persona fans have come to know and love.
Fans Eagerly Anticipate the First “Super!!”Line
Adjustments Are Necessary, Yet Many Consider It a Promising Start
Franky’s new voice actor in today’s episode! ðŸ\u017d™ï¸\u008fpic.twitter.com/UZY0VWEXIM — Pew (@pewpiece) April 6, 2025
In episode #1124, Franky’s character received extended screentime, allowing Kimura to showcase his vocal talents. This episode proved pivotal as fans began to gauge how well Kimura can replicate the essence of Franky, a character with a loyal following. While some long-time viewers may feel nostalgic for Kazuki’s portrayal, Kimura captures the required energy and tone, particularly in moments that don’t demand high-energy antics.
The true test will be Kimura’s ability to channel Franky’s exuberance during high-stakes battles—especially when delivering the iconic “Super!”line. Fans have noted differences in vocal texture; Kazuki’s distinct gravely delivery contrasts with Kimura’s smoother approach. For many viewers, this first effort has been well-received, while others may need time to acclimate. With multiple episodes forthcoming, fans are eager for more character developments that will define Kimura’s journey as Franky.
Kazuki Yao: The Definitive Voice of Franky
Kimura Has Potential to Evolve in His Role, Establishing His Own Legacy
Kazuki Yao perfectly embodied Franky over the years, bringing a dynamic energy to both the anime and various One Piece events. As Kimura takes on this cherished role, he faces the challenge of meeting the high expectations set by his predecessor. As Kazuki’s natural successor, Kimura has the opportunity to create a unique interpretation of Franky, laying the groundwork for his own legacy within this iconic series.