The Controversial Casting of Yoruichi Sparks Debate ahead of Bleach TYBW Part 3
Controversy engulfs the release of Bleach TYBW part 3 as fans express discontent over the English dub casting of Yoruichi, overshadowing the excitement surrounding author Tite Kubo's beloved manga and anime adaptation
With the release of Bleach TYBW part 3 on the horizon, fans of Tite Kubo's original manga and its anime adaptation are thrilled. The revival series has exceeded expectations and fulfilled the dreams of loyal fans. In the past month, many fans have taken the opportunity to watch and analyze the second part, preparing eagerly for the upcoming release of Bleach TYBW part 3. However, English dub fans have been waiting anxiously, as the dubbed version started airing a month later than the original Japanese version.
Bleach TYBW part 3’s looming release overshadowed by controversy around Yoruichi’s English dub casting
Many fans of the original Japanese version have understandably disregarded the dubbed version of part 2, as their main concern lies in the eagerly anticipated airing of Bleach TYBW part 3. Nevertheless, the recent controversy surrounding Yoruichi Shihouin and the change in her voice actor has captured the attention of devoted franchise fans.The controversy, explained
The English dub cast for Bleach TYBW part 3 was announced by Viz Media and the anime's production staff long before its release. Many of the original cast members agreed to reprise their roles, including Johnny Yong Bosch as Ichigo Kurosaki, Stephanie Sheh as Orhime Inoue, Michelle Ruff as Rukia Kuchiki, and Derek Stephen Prince as Uryu Ishida.
However, one voice actor, Jameson Prince, made the decision not to reprise their role as Yasutora "Chad" Sato. Jameson Prince chose to have their role recast in order to promote more diversity in the voice acting industry. This decision paid off, as Cuban-American actor Alain Mesa was cast as Sato in the revival series, representing the character's mixed Japanese and Mexican heritage.
Likewise, with the upcoming release of Bleach TYBW part 3 and the reintroduction of certain characters in part 2, similar casting announcements have caused some recent drama. It was revealed that Anairis Quiñones will be taking on the role of Yoruichi Shihouin in the English-dubbed version of the revival series, instead of Wendee Lee reprising her original portrayal.
Anairis, a voice actor of color, expressed her excitement on Twitter about voicing a character that represents people of color, like herself, in honor of Yoruichi. Yoruichi is one of the rare central characters of color in the series. However, the anime's casting department later decided to recast Lee in her original role as Yoruichi, causing disappointment among fans. Lee appeared to have some issues with the support that Anairis received on social media.
Lee began responding to several fans and voice actors, sending well wishes to Anairis. However, her tone in these posts tended to be negative. She justified her reprisal by stating that she was part of the "iconic" original cast. Additionally, Lee mentioned on X (formerly known as Twitter) that she had apologized to Anairis and received confirmation that the message was received, although Anairis chose not to respond.
Make sure to stay updated on all the latest news about the Bleach TYBW anime, as well as general anime, manga, film, and live-action news throughout 2023.
