The long-running anime series Sazae-san has announced a recast for three of its characters. As of June 1st, 2025, Ikura, Kaori, and Rika have new voice actors taking over their respective roles. This marks a significant change for the show, which has been a staple of Japanese television for decades.
A Change in the Air for Beloved Characters
The official blog for Sazae-san revealed that Sachie Hirai will now voice Ikura, Mana Koshirakawa will voice Kaori, and Sayaka Kitahara will voice Rika. These roles were previously all voiced by Reiko Katsura, a veteran voice actress in Japan.
- Ikura: The son of Sazae’s cousin, Norisuke. Known for his limited but adorable vocabulary, like “Hi!” and “Babu!”
- Kaori: A classmate of Sazae’s brother, Katsuo.
- Rika: Often referred to as the “girlfriend” of Sazae’s son, Tarao.
Meet the New Voices
- Sachie Hirai: The new voice of Ikura.
- Mana Koshirakawa: Taking on the role of Kaori.
- Sayaka Kitahara: Now voicing Rika.
The Legacy of Reiko Katsura
Reiko Katsura had a long history with Sazae-san, voicing all three characters for a significant period. Her departure marks the end of an era, and fans are eager to see how the new voice actors will bring their own interpretations to these roles.
‘Sazae-san’: A Cultural Icon
Sazae-san is more than just an anime; it’s a cultural institution in Japan. Here’s a look at why this series has resonated with audiences for so long:
Longest-Running Animated Series: Sazae-san holds the Guinness World Record for the longest-running animated television series. The anime adaptation began airing in October 1969 and has been broadcasted ever since.
Manga Roots: The anime is based on the yonkoma manga series by Machiko Hasegawa. The manga was first published in April 1946 and ran until February 1974.
Relatable Slice of Life: The series focuses on the everyday life of the Sazae-san family, depicting relatable situations and contemporary themes in Tokyo.
Cultural Impact: Sazae-san has been adapted into various forms, including radio shows, theatrical plays, and songs, solidifying its place in Japanese popular culture.
The Enduring Appeal of the Sazae-san Family
The Sazae-san family, at the heart of the series, offers a charming and familiar reflection of Japanese domestic life. Their interactions, challenges, and joys resonate with viewers across generations, solidifying the show’s status as a cultural touchstone.
Sazae-san
The titular character, Sazae, is a cheerful and energetic woman who embodies the spirit of the modern Japanese housewife. Her unconventional ways and zest for life often bring humor and warmth to the family dynamic.
Masuo
Sazae’s husband, Masuo, is a gentle and supportive partner. He provides a steady presence in the family, balancing Sazae’s lively personality with his calm demeanor.
Tarao
Their young son, Tarao, affectionately known as Tara-chan, is curious and innocent. His interactions and observations add a layer of sweetness and wonder to the everyday events of the family.
Namihei and Fune
Sazae’s parents, Namihei and Fune, represent the traditional values and wisdom of the older generation. Their guidance and experience often provide a grounding influence on the family.
Katsuo and Wakame
Sazae’s younger siblings, Katsuo and Wakame, bring youthful energy and relatable sibling dynamics to the series. Their school experiences and personal growth reflect the challenges and aspirations of young people in Japan.
Other Notable Characters
The world of Sazae-san is populated with a variety of supporting characters who add depth and color to the series. Here are a few of the more notable ones:
Ikura: As mentioned, Ikura is Sazae’s cousin’s son, known for his adorable babbling.
Kaori: A classmate of Katsuo, one of the characters Katsuo has a crush on.
Rika: A friend of Tarao.
Milestones and Recognitions
Sazae-san‘s impact is evident through its many milestones and recognitions:
Guinness World Record: Recognized in 2019 for the “Longest career as a voice actor for the same character of an animated TV series” for Midori Katō, who voices Sazae.
Best-Selling Manga: By 1999, the manga had over 86 million copies in circulation, marking it as one of the best-selling manga series of all time.
The Future of ‘Sazae-san’
With the new cast members stepping into their roles, Sazae-san continues its journey as a beloved anime series. Fans are excited to see how these fresh voices will shape the characters and bring new energy to the show, ensuring that the Sazae-san family remains a comforting and familiar presence on Japanese television for years to come.
