The highly anticipated anime adaptation of Yuto Suzuki’s manga, Sakamoto Days, is set to premiere on Netflix on January 11, 2025. With the release date just around the corner, Netflix has unveiled the English dub trailer and the star-studded cast bringing the characters to life. This action-comedy series, produced by TMS Entertainment, is one of the most eagerly awaited anime releases of the Winter 2025 season.
A Glimpse into the World of Sakamoto Days
Sakamoto Days follows the story of Taro Sakamoto, a legendary hitman who has retired from his dangerous life to settle down with his wife and child. However, his past catches up to him as he tries to maintain a peaceful life while facing off against various assassins and threats. The series is known for its over-the-top action sequences, comedic moments, and dramatic undertones.
The official logline reads: “Follow the action-packed story of legendary ex-hitman Taro Sakamoto, as he bands with comrades to face off against the looming threat of assassins to ensure a peaceful life with his beloved family. Sakamoto and company run wild in no-holds-barred, over-the-top battles that have stolen the spotlight and captivated audiences far and wide. In a world overrun by assassins like the special force ‘The Order’ from the Japanese Association of Assassins (JAA), and a mysterious individual called ‘X (Slur)’ targeting assassins, what is the true meaning of strength for Sakamoto?”
The English Dub Cast
Netflix has assembled an impressive cast for the English dub of Sakamoto Days, featuring a mix of well-known voice actors and on-screen talent. Here’s a breakdown of the main cast:
- Matthew Mercer as Taro Sakamoto: Known for his roles in Blood of Zeus, Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure, Naruto: Shippuden, and Attack on Titan, Mercer takes on the lead role of the former legendary hitman.
- Dallas Liu as Shin Asakura: Liu, recognized for his role in Netflix’s Avatar: The Last Airbender, plays Sakamoto’s sidekick, Shin Asakura, in his voice acting debut.
- Rosalie Chiang as Lu Shaotang: Chiang, who is best known for her role in Disney’s Turning Red, voices the tritagonist, Lu Shaotang.
- Rosie Okumura as Aoi Sakamoto: Okumura makes her anime debut voicing Taro’s wife, Aoi Sakamoto.
- Xolo Maridueña as Heisuke Mashimo: The Cobra Kai star lends his voice to the character of Heisuke Mashimo.
- Aleks Le as Nagumo: Known for his work in Solo Leveling, Le voices the character Nagumo.
- Lexi Cabrera (also known as WWE superstar Alexa Bliss) as Obiguro: The WWE superstar takes on the role of Obiguro.
- SungWon Cho as Boiled: Cho, who has worked on Delicious in Dungeon, voices Boiled.
- Du-Shaunt “Fik-Shun” Stegall as Son Hee: Stegall, known for his dancing talent, voices the character Son Hee.
- Toru Uchikado as Bacho: Uchikado, from Castlevania, voices Bacho.
This diverse cast brings a mix of experience and fresh talent to the anime, promising a captivating viewing experience.
The Creative Team
The anime adaptation of Sakamoto Days is being directed by Masaki Watanabe, with Yuki Hayashi providing the music. The character design is by Yo Moriyama, and the background art is designed by Yukiko Maruyama. Aya Hida is in charge of the editing, and Jin Aketagawa is the sound director. Taku Kishimoto is in charge of the series composition, with Yuto Suzuki handling the screenplay.
Where to Watch
Sakamoto Days will be available for streaming worldwide on Netflix, with the first part of the series premiering on January 11, 2025. The anime will be released on a weekly basis. The second part of the series is scheduled to begin in July.
Manga and Game
The Sakamoto Days manga, written and illustrated by Yuto Suzuki, has been serialized in Shueisha’s Weekly Shonen Jump magazine since 2020, with 20 volumes released as of January 4, 2024. VIZ Media has licensed the manga in English. Additionally, a smartphone game titled Sakamoto Days: Dangerous Puzzle is slated for release in Spring 2025.
Final Thoughts
With its blend of action, comedy, and drama, Sakamoto Days is shaping up to be a standout anime series of 2025. The newly released English dub trailer and the reveal of the voice cast have further heightened the anticipation for the show’s premiere on Netflix. Fans can look forward to an exciting and entertaining experience as they delve into the world of Taro Sakamoto and his chaotic life. The mix of talented voice actors, along with the creative team behind the scenes, makes this a must-watch for anime enthusiasts.
