Warner Bros. Japan has revealed three additional key cast members for the upcoming Hokuto no Ken -Fist of the North Star- anime, with Wataru Takagi, Tsuguo Mogami, and Taiten Kusunoki joining as the voices of Jagi, Toki, and Raoh, respectively. The announcement was made on September 13, “Fist of the North Star Day,” which commemorates the 42nd anniversary of the original manga’s debut. This new adaptation, set to premiere in 2026, promises a fresh take on the legendary post-apocalyptic martial arts saga.
Iconic Hokuto Brothers Find Their Voices
The latest casting news brings to life three pivotal characters in the Fist of the North Star universe: Kenshiro’s elder “brothers” and formidable martial arts masters. Wataru Takagi, known for roles in Detective Conan and Great Teacher Onizuka, will voice the ruthless and deceitful Jagi. Tsuguo Mogami, with credits in Attack on Titan and Jujutsu Kaisen, steps into the shoes of the compassionate yet powerful Toki. Finally, Taiten Kusunoki, recognizable from My Hero Academia and Tiger & Bunny, will lend his voice to the imposing and ambitious Raoh, the Conqueror.
These announcements were made during a special livestream event titled “It’s Fist of the North Star DAY! Gather Around, All Four Brothers!!”
Previously Announced Main Cast and 2026 Premiere
The newly revealed cast members join a roster of previously announced talent bringing the iconic characters to life. Shunsuke Takeuchi (known for Tokyo Revengers) will voice the protagonist, Kenshiro, the successor to Hokuto Shinken. Daiki Yamashita (My Hero Academia) is cast as the spirited young Bat, and M・A・O (Fire Force) will voice Rin.
The new Fist of the North Star anime is scheduled to debut in 2026. Production for the anime was initially announced in September 2023 as part of the manga’s 40th-anniversary celebration.
A New Vision for a Classic Tale
The production staff has indicated that this new CG-based anime adaptation aims to be more faithful to the original manga penned by Buronson and illustrated by Tetsuo Hara. The series is expected to utilize the “latest animation technology” to re-envision the beloved story.
The narrative unfolds in a world ravaged by nuclear war, where humanity struggles for survival amidst scarce resources and rampant violence. Kenshiro, bearing seven scars on his chest and mastering the deadly Hokuto Shinken martial art, wanders the wasteland, protecting the weak and confronting brutal adversaries, including figures from his past.
The Legacy of Fist of the North Star
The original Fist of the North Star manga ran in Shueisha’s Weekly Shonen Jump from 1983 to 1988 and has sold over 100 million copies worldwide. Its profound impact on popular culture includes inspiring numerous anime TV series, films, OVAs, video games, and even a live-action adaptation and stage play. The first TV anime adaptation aired from 1984 to 1988. This new anime project continues the franchise’s enduring legacy, bringing the iconic tale to a new generation of fans with modern animation techniques and a fresh voice cast.
