The passion for an animated series can lead certain followers to cross truly alarming limits. Within the Japanese entertainment industry, voice actors often become the main target of public frustrations, even when they do not have the slightest decision-making power over the future of a franchise. This is the unfortunate case of Ayumi Takeothe talented artist who gave life to Iijima Yun in the popular workplace comedy New Game!who has been forced to speak out after enduring incessant harassment from fans who directly blame her for the lack of a third season.
The unbearable weight of a retirement
Although the performer decided to formally retire from recording studios five years ago, her tranquility has been interrupted by a constant wave of aggressive messages. According to his recent testimony, dozens of users write to him privately on a recurring basis to accuse him that his departure from acting is the only reason why the series has not received new episodes. Driven by desperation, the actress published a message addressed to the production companies KadokawaHoubunsha and the studio Doga Kobopleading with them to authorize the production of a sequel. In her emotional statement, she clarified that she would be completely willing to resume her role as long as these attacks end once and for all.
The incomprehension of the fans
This painful confession generated deep indignation among the Japanese community. Many users expressed their total bewilderment at seeing how some individuals decide to mentally attack the person who gave identity to one of their favorite characters. Furthermore, Internet users pointed out the enormous ignorance behind these claims, recalling that when a talent leaves, production committees simply hire a replacement if they really want to continue with a project. The harsh reality is that the original manga ended in 2021 and, from a strict commercial perspective, it is very likely that investors simply will not find the financial incentives necessary to finance another phase of animation.
Seeing a retired professional having to beg corporations to regain her peace of mind reflects an extremely dark side of fanaticism. Knowing that the decisions to continue or cancel an anime depend on sales and boards of directors, do you think that studios should issue official statements clarifying these situations to protect their actors from harassment, or do you think that social networks need more severe filters to stop toxic users?
