Johnny Yong Bosch is a prominent figure in the world of anime voice acting, known for his work on a variety of iconic characters over the span of two decades. Perhaps his most famous role is as Ichigo Kurosaki, the lead character of Bleach, where Bosch’s distinct voice brought the Soul Reaper to life for English-speaking audiences. Beyond Bleach, Bosch has voiced a wide range of characters across multiple genres, from heroes to villains, and in both well-known series and lesser-known gems. Here’s a look at 10 other anime characters he’s voiced throughout his career.
1. Hector Doyle – Baki
In Baki, Hector Doyle is a brutal and powerful assassin whose body has been modified with cybernetic enhancements to increase his combat abilities. Although Hector’s violent nature and reliance on dirty tactics set him apart from Ichigo’s honorable warrior spirit, Bosch’s performance as the tough fighter adds depth to his complex character. Hector’s mechanical limbs and enhanced strength make him a formidable foe, even for the likes of Baki Hanma.
2. Sabo – One Piece
Johnny Yong Bosch took over the role of Sabo, the fiery revolutionary and sworn brother of Luffy, in One Piece starting in 2020. Sabo is known for his passionate devotion to overthrowing the oppressive World Government. As a user of the Flame-Flame Fruit, Sabo can create, control, and become fire, making him one of the most powerful fighters in the series. Bosch’s voice perfectly captures Sabo’s sense of justice and determination, which makes him a standout character in the One Piece universe.
3. Kei Nagai – Ajin
In Ajin, Johnny Yong Bosch voices Kei Nagai, a teenager who discovers that he is an immortal Ajin after surviving a fatal accident. As an Ajin, Kei can regenerate from injuries and summon terrifying Black Ghosts, which are manifestations of his power. While Ichigo’s story is filled with emotional growth and heroism, Kei’s journey is marked by a colder, more detached personality, which Bosch skillfully conveys with his performance.
4. Giyu Tomioka – Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
Giyu Tomioka, the Water Hashira in Demon Slayer, is a stoic and honorable warrior who protects humanity from demons. Though he doesn’t share Ichigo’s exact powers, Giyu’s dedication to his mission and his mastery over the Water Breathing techniques make him a powerful character. Bosch’s portrayal of Giyu, with his serious and reserved nature, adds a sense of gravitas to the character that is crucial to the Demon Slayer series.
5. Kiba – Wolf’s Rain
In Wolf’s Rain, Bosch voices Kiba, a wolf who can transform into a human form. Kiba’s search for the mythical Paradise makes him a determined and brave character, similar to Ichigo’s own resolve. Kiba’s loyalty and courage, despite his deep distrust of humanity, are perfectly captured by Bosch’s performance, making him one of the standout characters in this underrated anime.
6. Renton Thurston – Eureka Seven
As Renton Thurston, the protagonist of Eureka Seven, Johnny Yong Bosch voices a young man who matures throughout the series, striving for peace between humanity and the Scub Coral. Renton is a skilled mech pilot who faces the challenges of war and internal conflict, and Bosch’s performance captures his growth from a naive teenager to a determined and responsible leader.
7. Yukio Okumura – Blue Exorcist
In Blue Exorcist, Bosch voices Yukio Okumura, the highly skilled exorcist who is also the son of Satan. Despite being the biological son of the Devil, Yukio does not inherit his father’s cruel nature. He is a calm and professional character, skilled in both exorcism and marksmanship. Bosch’s portrayal emphasizes Yukio’s complex emotions, particularly his internal struggle and sense of duty.
8. Orga Itsuka – Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans
Orga Itsuka is the leader of the Tekkadan faction in Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans, a group of child soldiers seeking a better future. Orga’s leadership, selflessness, and sense of responsibility towards his comrades are key traits that Bosch brings to life with his voice. Despite his tragic fate, Orga’s sacrifice and his commitment to his comrades’ wellbeing make him a memorable character.
9. Sasori – Naruto: Shippuden
Sasori, known as “Sasori of the Red Sand,” is one of the most skilled members of the Akatsuki in Naruto: Shippuden. A master of puppet techniques, Sasori has turned human corpses into puppets, including himself. Bosch’s voice brings depth to Sasori’s cold, calculating nature and his complex philosophy about the impermanence of life, further enhancing the character’s status as a memorable antagonist.
10. Lelouch vi Britannia – Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion
Lelouch vi Britannia, the brilliant and charismatic ex-prince of Britannia, is the central character in Code Geass. Johnny Yong Bosch voices Lelouch with a mix of intellect, passion, and emotional complexity, as the character navigates his quest to bring down the oppressive Britannian Empire. Lelouch’s use of his Geass power—”The Power of Absolute Obedience”—along with his strategic mind, makes him one of anime’s most fascinating protagonists.
Throughout his career, Johnny Yong Bosch has voiced a wide range of characters, each unique in their stories, personalities, and abilities. From heroic figures like Ichigo Kurosaki to complex anti-heroes like Lelouch vi Britannia, Bosch’s versatile voice acting has made a lasting impact on the anime world.
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