Updates on the Kill Blue anime have been scarce since its initial announcement last September, but fans finally have exciting news! Producer DMM has officially revealed that Shunsuke Takeuchi will lend his voice to the adult version of Juzo Ogami. This significant casting announcement also came with a first look at the character and a personal comment from Takeuchi himself.
Takeuchi is a well-regarded voice actor, recognized for memorable roles such as Einar in VINLAND SAGA, the Producer in THE IDOLM@STER CINDERELLA GIRLS, and Brawler in Akudama Drive. Commenting on his new role, Takeuchi shared, “Juzo possesses an adult mind trapped in a child’s body. Initially, I wondered if I’d need to approach it with a ‘detective’ mindset, but thankfully, that doesn’t seem to be the case! It’s quite a relief. People often tell me I sound older than my age, so I feel a natural connection with this character. The cast of KILL BLUE is incredibly vibrant and expressive, and I’m genuinely thrilled to be part of the team, observing their lively interactions. Please look forward to KILL BLUE!”
The Kill Blue TV anime will be directed by Hiro Kaburagi, known for his work on Kimi ni Todoke – From Me to You, and will be animated by studio CUE. Miho Daidoji is responsible for the character designs. The series is slated for a 2026 premiere.
The original Kill Blue manga, penned by Tadatoshi Fujimaki (creator of Kuroko’s Basketball), began its serialization in Shonen Jump in April 2023 and recently concluded. To date, eleven volumes have been released in Japan, with the twelfth volume set to launch on November 4. For English-speaking audiences, VIZ Media handles the official release of the series.
The captivating premise of Kill Blue introduces Juzo Ogami, a legendary 39-year-old assassin with an impeccable, flawless record. His life takes an extraordinary turn when, after dismantling a formidable organization, he is stung by a mysterious wasp and collapses. Upon waking, the formidable hitman finds himself inexplicably transformed into a 13-year-old boy!
Before he can even grasp this unbelievable change, his boss hands him a new, unexpected mission: infiltrate a middle school in his new, youthful guise. What unfolds is an extraordinary school life, brimming with vibrant classmates, the delightful chaos of youth, and constant, lurking danger. The central question remains: can Juzo ever reverse his transformation and return to his true form, or will the relentless assassins hot on his trail cut short his unexpected second chance at life?