The official website for the “Sentenced to Be a Hero: The Prison Records of Penal Hero Unit 9004” (Yūsha-kei ni Shosu: Chōbatsu Yūsha 9004-tai Keimu Kiroku) TV anime has released its second main promotional video, alongside the announcement of two additional cast members. The latest updates were revealed during a stage event at the Kyoto International Manga Anime Fair 2025.
The dark fantasy adaptation is now slated for a January 2026 premiere, having been previously delayed from its original October 2025 slot to enhance the overall quality of the production. Fans can also look forward to an extended 60-minute special for the first episode, promising a robust introduction to the series’ unique world.
New Voices Join the “Sentenced to Be a Hero” Cast
Two prominent voice actors have joined the growing ensemble of the “Sentenced to Be a Hero” anime, bringing key characters to life. Shoya Chiba and Yoko Hikasa were announced as the newest additions.
Shoya Chiba as Jayce Partiract
Shoya Chiba, known for his role as Kiyotaka Ayanokoji in Classroom of the Elite, will voice Jayce Partiract. Jayce is described as a Dragon Knight, an aerial force within the unit who soars through the skies on dragons and is skilled in spearmanship. He possesses the unusual ability to communicate with dragons and has an exceptionally beloved constitution, though his interest lies predominantly with dragons rather than humans.
Chiba expressed his enthusiasm for the role, stating he is performing Jayce with a “rough tone that feels refreshingly crisp,” and is pouring his heart into every line while keeping the character’s background in mind. He also noted his prior familiarity with the work and how the vivid story development of the original novel stunned him during the audition.
Yoko Hikasa as Neely
Joining Chiba is Yoko Hikasa, celebrated for her performance as Mio Akiyama in K-ON!, who will lend her voice to Neely. Neely is portrayed as a female dragon with vivid blue scales, a companion to Jayce, as she races across battlefields alongside him.
Dive Deeper into the Second Promotional Video
The newly released second main trailer offers an extended look at the anime’s action sequences, character interactions, and the perilous world where heroism is a form of punishment. While specific details about the video’s content (such as new animation cuts or theme song previews) were not explicitly detailed in the search results beyond its announcement, it is expected to further build anticipation for the delayed premiere.
The Story of Penal Hero Unit 9004
“Sentenced to Be a Hero” is based on Rocket Shokai’s dark fantasy light novel series, which began as a web novel on Kadokawa’s Kakuyomu site in October 2020. The premise revolves around individuals sentenced to be heroes—a grim punishment reserved for the worst criminals. These “heroes” are forced to confront deadly contagions and monstrous beasts on the front lines, fighting endlessly as they are revived even after death.
The story follows Xylo Forbartz, a former Holy Knight commander convicted for the crime of killing a goddess. When he encounters another goddess, Teoritta, and forms a contract with her, their bond has the potential to alter the fate of their world.
Production and Staff
Studio KAI is handling the animation production for the series. Hiroyuki Takashima is directing the anime, with Yoshitake Nakakōji serving as assistant director and creature designer. Kenta Ihara is in charge of the series composition and scripts, while Takeshi Noda designs the characters. Shunsuke Takizawa is composing the music, and Nobutaka Ike is credited for worldbuilding.
The anime was initially announced at the Dengeki Bunko 30th Anniversary event in July 2023. With its delayed premiere and an hour-long first episode, the production team aims to deliver a high-quality adaptation of the acclaimed dark fantasy series.
