Kaiji Tang, the voice behind the iconic character Satoru Gojo from Jujutsu Kaisen, nearly walked away from the role that would become one of his most memorable. In a recent interview, Tang candidly shared how fatigue almost led him to pass on the opportunity to voice the beloved character.
Jujutsu Kaisen, a hit manga series blending Japanese folklore with modern storytelling, has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Written by Gege Akutami, the series won the prestigious Crunchyroll Award for Anime of the Year in 2024 and holds the title of the most popular animated series according to Guinness World Records. Among the show’s many dramatic moments, the death of Satoru Gojo stands out as one of the most devastating for fans.
Kaiji Tang, a seasoned voice actor known for his work in Berserk and Bungo Stray Dogs, admitted that his initial reaction to auditioning for Gojo was less than enthusiastic. “It was my fourth audition of the day,” Tang recalled in an interview with The Mary Sue. “I was so tired, I just wanted to take a nap. I was this close to not even doing the audition.”
Despite his exhaustion, Tang pushed through and completed the audition, drawn by the potential he saw in the series. After some research and reflection, he realized the significance of the character and the impact the role could have on his career.
Gojo, known for his immense power and playful demeanor, quickly became a fan favorite, and Tang found unexpected commonalities between himself and the character. As an immigrant, Tang empathized deeply with Gojo’s loneliness, particularly the bond Gojo shared with his best friend, Geto. “I have core memories of years where I didn’t have anyone to hang out with,” Tang shared. “When Gojo says that Geto was his ‘one and only,’ I believe that.”
Tang’s ability to connect with Gojo on a personal level allowed him to bring a depth and authenticity to the character that resonated with audiences. In hindsight, Tang is certain that his decision to take on the role was the right one, despite his initial hesitation. His portrayal of Gojo not only captured the character’s strength but also the underlying vulnerability that makes Gojo one of the most compelling figures in Jujutsu Kaisen.