Voice Actor Taniyama Kishou Releases 50th Anniversary Photobook! “Even I Think I Should Have Left Well Enough Alone…”

Voice Actor Taniyama Kishou Celebrates 50th Birthday with a Commemorative Photobook! “I thought, isn’t it fine not to? But it’s decided…”

Get ready, fans! Popular voice actor Taniyama Kishou is celebrating a major milestone – his 50th birthday – with a special photobook titled 『Taniyama Kishou 50 Sai Kinen Shashinshuu (Kari)』. This much-anticipated release is set to launch on August 8, 2025, just before his actual birthday. The concept behind this commemorative book is a journey through Taniyama’s “Past, Present, and Future,” capturing the essence of his 50 years. It promises to showcase various sides of Taniyama, affectionately known to fans as “Ki-yan,” offering glimpses that his devoted fanbase has long wished to see.

About Taniyama Kishou

Born on August 11, 1975, in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Taniyama Kishou made his debut as a voice actor in 1995. He has since become a prominent figure in the industry, known for his versatile performances. Some of his most notable roles include Shinomiya Natsuki in the 『Uta no☆Prince-sama♪』 series, Jean Kirstein in the 『Shingeki no Kyojin』 series, and Nakahara Chuuya in the 『Bungou Stray Dogs』 series.

Beyond voice acting, Taniyama is also a successful musician. In 2005, he formed the rock unit GRANRODEO under the name KISHOW, alongside guitarist Iizuka Masaaki (e-ZUKA). As GRANRODEO, they have contributed numerous theme songs to anime and games. Looking ahead, GRANRODEO is gearing up to celebrate their 20th anniversary with a special live event titled “GRANRODEO 20th Anniversary LIVE 2025 G20 ROCK☆SHOW LOVE＆FIRE ～Ai to Joen no GRANRODEO～” on November 8th and 9th, 2025, at Pia Arena MM in Kanagawa.

Inside the Commemorative Photobook

This upcoming photobook celebrates Taniyama reaching the significant age of 50. In 2023, he released his first photobook, 『KROSS OVER』, created with world-renowned photographer Leslie Kee, which was praised as an artistic collaboration between top artists. This new book, however, shifts focus to capture the diverse appearances of Taniyama that fans have longed to see.

Following the “Past, Present, Future” concept, the book delves into Taniyama’s history. Fans will see him revisit his school days as a member of the track and field club, showcasing his energy on the school grounds once more. There’s also a scene set in a retro Showa-era ryokan, where he engages in writing, reminiscent of a literary figure deep in thought.

The journey continues to the Heisei era, where Taniyama reminisces about his youth in Tokyo, captured having fun at a game center. And for something fans eagerly anticipate, his signature sexy shots were taken in a luxurious hotel. Looking towards the “Future,” the book presents sweet, swoon-worthy scenarios that evoke living together with a loved one, including waking up scenes and even home cooking.

As a special treat, the photobook includes unique shoots such as an Oiran experience so beautiful it might make women envious, a gothic style faithfully recreated as if stepping out of a manga world, and even a charminglyメルヘンチック (meruhenchikku – fairy-tale like) shot in a rabbit costume, referencing his zodiac sign. It’s safe to say this book captures nearly everything about Taniyama, showing his surprisingly aggressive pursuit of photographic expression, even at 50, rivaling younger artists.

A Word from Taniyama Kishou

Taniyama Kishou shared a comment regarding the release:

Taniyama Kishou

Just before turning 50, I’ve found myself making another photobook, without learning my lesson.

I think to myself, “Isn’t it fine not to?”, but it’s decided, so I can’t do anything about it.

Since that’s the case, please do take a look.

As a star of the middle-aged, I might be able to give some people a little bit of courage.

Release Information

The 『Taniyama Kishou 50 Sai Kinen Shashinshuu (Kari)』 is priced at 4,400 yen and is scheduled for release on August 8, 2025. A limited cover edition with a making-of DVD will also be available. Furthermore, a release commemoration event is planned for September 6th, so fans should definitely keep an eye out for details on that as well!

By Nakase Koutarou

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