Daisuke Sakuma, a member of the popular Japanese idol group Snow Man, has been cast in the newest installment of the Precure anime series, “You and Idol Precure♪”. This marks Sakuma’s first foray into the Precure franchise, where he will voice the character of Hibiki Kaito, a “legendary idol” admired worldwide.
An Idol Playing an Idol: Sakuma’s Role as Hibiki Kaito
“You and Idol Precure♪”, the 22nd main entry in the Precure series, premiered on February 2nd and centers around the theme of idols. The story revolves around Sakura Uta, a middle school student who transforms into Cure Idol, and her journey to save the world through singing, dancing, and fan engagement.
Sakuma’s character, Hibiki Kaito, is a “legendary idol” currently on hiatus while studying abroad. He is described as someone who is loved by everyone. He appears in the fourth episode, which aired on February 23rd, where he secretly visits the cafe Glitter, owned by Sakura Uta’s parents, and meets Uta and her friends.
Sakuma expressed his excitement about being cast in the anime, stating, “I was very happy. I’m very happy to be involved in a work that has become a part of the Japanese animation culture known as ‘PreCure.'”
He also commented on his character, Kaito: “What I felt was that Kaito is someone who takes his role as an ‘idol’ very seriously. His expressions and tone are not light-hearted, and he wants to convey what he is thinking and feeling now with a gentle and honest heart. He is just a kind boy. I really like the way Kaito lives his life.”
“You and Idol Precure♪”: A Synopsis
“You and Idol Precure♪” follows Sakura Uta, a cheerful middle schooler who loves to sing. She discovers a fairy named Purirun, who is searching for the legendary savior, Idol Precure. Purirun’s homeland, Kiraki Land, is threatened by the villainous Darkine and the Chokkiri Gang, who steal the sparkles from the citizens. When the residents of Hanamichi Town also have their sparkles stolen, Uta transforms into Cure Idol to save the day with her singing.
The Idol Precure sing, dance, and provide “fan service” to bring light and strength to those they care about.
The Main Cast:
- Misato Matsuoka as Cure Idol / Sakura Uta
- Minami Takahashi as Cure Wink / Nana Aokaze
- Natsumi Takamori as Cure Kyun Kyun / Kokoro Shigure
Sakuma’s Anime Background and “PreCure” Enthusiasm
Daisuke Sakuma is well-known as an avid anime fan. He is referred to as “Anime otaku and Snow Man”. His passion for anime has been a defining part of his public persona.
Sakuma has previously voiced characters in other anime, including:
- Makusa North in Black Clover (2020)
- Yang Tianxiang in the animated film White Snake (2021)
- Michiru Hazama in Cardfight!! Vanguard will+Dress (2022)
Sakuma has expressed a desire to establish himself as a voice actor, hoping to be recognized solely for his voice acting talent rather than his association with Snow Man.
Regarding the “idol” motif of “You and Idol Precure♪”, Sakuma stated, “It’s something that hasn’t been seen before. I think PreCure is something that seems close but isn’t, but when it’s fused with idols, there was a very strong sense of satisfaction that it would be a perfect match.”
He also mentioned consulting with voice actor Terashima Takuma about his role.
Reactions From Fellow Celebrities
After Sakuma’s casting was announced, Miyata Toshiya of Kis-My-Ft2 and Terashima Takuma, both known anime fans, shared their support. Miyata, who voiced a character in Delicious Party Precure, said they were happy for Sakuma and believed it would be a great opportunity for him.
“You and Idol Precure♪”: More Than Just an Anime
“You and Idol Precure♪” is not just a television series; it’s a multimedia franchise.
Anime Movie
A movie, You and Idol Precure♪: The Movie (tentative title), is slated for release in Fall 2025 in Japan.
Streaming
Crunchyroll is streaming the anime internationally.
Daisuke Sakuma: A Multifaceted Talent
Daisuke Sakuma, born on July 5, 1992, is a member of Snow Man, a popular idol group managed by Starto Entertainment (formerly Johnny & Associates). Sakuma joined Johnny & Associates in 2005 and became a member of Snow Man in 2012, officially debuting with the group in 2020.
Beyond Voice Acting:
Sakuma has also appeared in several films and television dramas, including:
- Hot Snow (2011)
- Shiritsu Bakaleya Koukou (2012)
- Kamen Teacher (2014)
- Last Hold! (2018)
- Shonen-tachi (2019)
- Osomatsu-san (2022)
- Matched (2024)
With his role in “You and Idol Precure♪”, Daisuke Sakuma continues to expand his career as a voice actor, showcasing his talent and passion for anime.
