The upcoming anime adaptation of Rocket Shokai’s light novel series, “Sentenced to Be a Hero: The Prison Records of Penal Hero Unit 9004,” has revealed three new cast members. This announcement comes as anticipation builds for the anime’s premiere later this year. The series, known for its dark fantasy setting and unique premise, is set to have a special stage at AnimeJapan 2025 in March.
New Additions to the Heroic Roster
The newly announced cast members will be joining Yohei Azakami, who voices Xylo Forbartz, and Mayu Iizuka, who voices Teoritta, in bringing the world of “Sentenced to Be a Hero” to life.
- Shizuka Ishigami as Patausche Kivia, captain of the 13th Order of Holy Knights.
- Shun Horie as Dotta Luzulas, a member of Penal Hero Unit 9004 who has committed over 1,000 thefts.
- Shunichi Toki as Venetim Leopool, commander of Penal Hero Unit 9004.
Shizuka Ishigami: From Food Wars to Holy Knight Captain
Shizuka Ishigami is a seasoned voice actress with a diverse range of roles under her belt. Anime fans may recognize her as Ikumi Mito from “Food Wars! Shokugeki no Soma”. Now, she steps into the role of Patausche Kivia, the captain of the 13th Order of Holy Knights, promising to bring strength and authority to the character.
Shun Horie: Voicing a Thief Turned Hero
Shun Horie, known for his role as Kyotaro Ichikawa in “The Dangers in My Heart,” will voice Dotta Luzulas, a member of the Penal Hero Unit 9004 with a history of over 1,000 thefts. Horie’s experience in portraying complex characters will likely add depth to Dotta’s portrayal as a criminal forced into heroism.
Shunichi Toki: Leading the Penal Hero Unit
Shunichi Toki, who previously voiced Setsu in “Summoned to Another World for a Second Time,” is set to play Venetim Leopool, the commander of Penal Hero Unit 9004. As the leader of a group of convicted criminals turned heroes, Venetim is sure to be a compelling character, and Toki’s performance will be one to watch.
What is “Sentenced to Be a Hero” About?
“Sentenced to Be a Hero: The Prison Records of Penal Hero Unit 9004” is a dark fantasy light novel series by Rocket Shokai, with illustrations by Mephisto. The story revolves around a world where the worst criminals are sentenced to become heroes, forced to fight on the front lines against the Demon King’s army. These “heroes” face constant battles, death, and revival in an endless cycle of war. The series explores themes of punishment, redemption, and the blurred lines between good and evil.
Yen Press, which publishes the novel series in English, describes the story: “Heroism—a punishment for only the worst criminals. Those sentenced to the fate of a hero are forced to fight at the front lines against the demon king’s army—and if they die, they can expect to be revived and continue the battle. But when their leader, convicted of killing a goddess, meets another goddess himself, the contract they forge may be enough to change the world…”
Production Details and What to Expect
Studio KAI is producing the anime adaptation of “Sentenced to Be a Hero.” While key staff members, including the director, are yet to be officially confirmed, the studio’s involvement suggests a high-quality production.
The previously announced main cast includes:
- Yohei Azakami as Xylo Forbartz: The protagonist, a former commander of the Holy Knights convicted of killing a goddess.
- Mayu Iizuka as Teoritta: A Sword Goddess who forges a pact with Xylo Forbartz.
With the addition of Shizuka Ishigami, Shun Horie, and Shunichi Toki, the voice cast is now complete, promising a dynamic and engaging performance that will bring the characters of “Sentenced to Be a Hero” to life.
Light Novel and Manga Adaptations
Rocket Shokai launched the light novel series on Kadokawa’s Kakuyomu site in October 2020, and Kadokawa began publishing the series in print in September 2021 with illustrations by Mephisto. Kadokawa released the seventh volume on January 17, 2025.
The series has also inspired a manga adaptation with art by Natsumi Inoue, serialized on Kadokawa’s Dengeki Comic Regulus site. Yen Press publishes the novels in English, while BookWalker releases the manga version in English.
AnimeJapan 2025 Stage Event
Fans eager to learn more about the “Sentenced to Be a Hero” anime can look forward to a special stage event at AnimeJapan 2025 on March 23. The event is expected to reveal more details about the anime’s production, cast, and premiere date.
Release Date
The “Sentenced to Be a Hero” anime is scheduled to premiere in 2025. While an exact release date has not yet been announced, fans can anticipate further updates.
