From 'Neon Genesis Evangelion,' which began broadcasting in October 1995, to 'Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time,' released in March 2021, a grand story has been woven over 30 years. For the cast who have continued to breathe life into the characters throughout this long journey, this series has become an irreplaceable existence.
When asked about memorable words from fans, Hayashibara shared an episode unique to a popular character with passionate fans: "What personally troubled me was that I really love meat. But as the character Rei, I say the line 'I don't like meat.' So when someone who loves Rei-chan told me 'You're not Rei Ayanami,' that was shocking."
Sakamoto shared an episode unique to this popular series: "30 years ago, I was in high school, and all my friends were watching 'Neon Genesis Evangelion.' They were talking about 'When will the next film be released?' 'What will happen next?' and I thought, 'I know but can't say'... So when it was announced, the words 'You're in it?!' remain memorable."
Iwao, who plays Hikari, announced, "What remains memorable from fans' words is being told that they're glad Hikari-chan found happiness," and the venue erupted in congratulatory applause. Nagasawa recalled, "What was impressive was when I asked the director what happened to Maya-chan between ':Break' and ':Q,' the director just smiled and said, 'I wonder what happened,'" and when Director Anno revealed the "new theory" that "She dated a young man and got dumped," the venue was shocked and greatly excited.
Regarding memories of the first recording and the most memorable recording session, Ishida reflected, "When I appeared, the world of 'Evangelion' was already complete. So having entered for just one episode, I was wondering what kind of face I should make," and when Ogata responded with Shinji's famous line from the series, "Just smile, I guess," the venue erupted in laughter.
Tachiki revealed what became a turning point for him: "Until then, I had mostly played eccentric roles as a voice actor, so there was a gap. From that point on, I feel like I was conditioned not to pursue such characters much anymore." Mitsuishi also reflected, "I think in the early days, there was time between recording and broadcast. We were shown the completed opening video at the dubbing studio. When I saw that, I was shocked, thinking 'Amazing!' and felt this was an extraordinary work," and Director Anno also smiled, saying "At that time, I was giving it my all to create it. But I was happy when voices were raised when we played the opening at the dubbing venue."
Yamaguchi recalled the dubbing at the time: "Actually, 'Evangelion' was my first voice acting job, so it was my first time entering a studio and speaking in front of a microphone. Everyone was really veterans. I was so nervous. I thought I could do it because I practiced, but it didn't match at all... I still can't rewatch the TV series. I try to watch it but I'm scared. But thanks to that, I'm also at 30 years, so I'm grateful."
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