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Yasumoto Hiroki’s Swift Return After Traffic Accident
Voice actor Yasumoto Hiroki, who co-hosts ABEMA’s program Seiyuu to Yoasobi every Monday with Kobayashi Chiaki-san, unfortunately had to step back from the December 1st broadcast due to a car accident (specifically, a multi-car pileup). Filling in as substitute MCs were Hama Kento-san and Yamashita Seiichirou-san. Fans on social media quickly expressed their deep concern, but thankfully, a report from his agency, Sigma Seven, confirmed Yasumoto-san’s immediate return to work the very next day, December 2nd.
A Versatile Voice and Popular MC
Yasumoto-san is widely recognized for his rich, low-tone voice, which he lends to a diverse array of beloved characters. His notable roles include Hoozuki in Hoozuki no Reitetsu, Sado Yasutora in BLEACH, Buffaloman in Kinnikuman Kanpeki Choujin Shiso-hen, Kinjou Shingo in Yowamushi Pedal, and Hasegawa Eiji in Kaijuu 8-gou. He has taken on the role of Monday MC for the Seiyuu to Yoasobi 2025 season.
Official Confirmation and Yasumoto-san’s Reassurance
The announcement of his absence on December 1st, issued by Sigma Seven, specified that it was due to a car accident (a multi-car pileup). The agency’s initial statement reassured fans, noting that “his physical condition is not an issue, and he will resume activities under a doctor’s judgment.” True to their word, news of his swift return to work followed almost immediately.
Yasumoto-san personally took to his SNS, sharing a link to Sigma Seven’s official website information titled “Subsequent Report Regarding Yasumoto Hiroki.” He posted, “I apologize for causing concern. With that, I’m back to work.“
The official statement from the Sigma Seven website, titled “Subsequent Report Regarding Yasumoto Hiroki,” reads:
“We extend our sincerest gratitude for your continued support.”
“Our talent, Yasumoto Hiroki, was involved in a car accident (a multi-car pileup) yesterday, which led to his absence from yesterday’s broadcast of Seiyuu to Yoasobi.”
“Following medical examination and instructions, we are fortunate to report that he sustained no serious injuries. Therefore, he has resumed his work activities as usual starting today.”
“We sincerely apologize once again for the significant concern and inconvenience caused to our fans who always support us and to all concerned parties.”
Yasumoto-san further updated his followers, enthusiastically posting, “I got the GO from the doctor, so I’m working from today. In conclusion, Yasumoto-san’s only strong point is being sturdy, so I was unharmed.” He concluded his message with a crucial piece of advice: “One thing I can say: seatbelts are vital! They saved me.“
For those eager to see him in high spirits, Yasumoto-san also recommended a video from the popular YouTube channel “Cooking Researcher Ryuuji’s Buzz Recipe,” mentioning, “If you want to see a genki (lively, energetic) Yasumoto-san, watch this video by Ryuuji-kun.” This engaging video offers approximately 40 minutes of Yasumoto-san’s energetic food reporting.
Support from Colleagues and Fans
Kobayashi Chiaki-san, Yasumoto-san’s co-host for Seiyuu to Yoasobi on Mondays, had initially informed viewers about Yasumoto-san’s absence before the broadcast. “Link to tweet about absence.“
After the show, Kobayashi-san continued to express her genuine concern for Yasumoto-san’s well-being. She tweeted, “I sincerely hope that nothing serious happened and that we can enjoy Yoasobi together again soon! Also, Hama-san and Yamashita-san, who came as substitute MCs on such short notice, were truly reassuring. Please come and play again anytime!“
Hama Kento-san and Yamashita Seiichirou-san, who brilliantly stepped in as pinch-hitters for Seiyuu to Yoasobi, also shared their post-broadcast thoughts. Hama-san playfully commented, “I apologize if I got a little too excited as a substitute, but persimmons and Teflon-coated frying pans are the best!” while Yamashita-san gratefully added, “Supported by Chiaki and livened up by Hama-kun, I had a great time.“
Upon Yasumoto-san’s safe return, his SNS was flooded with an outpouring of relief and continued concern from fans. Comments included heartfelt messages like “I was so worried!”, “Glad you’re safe!”, “It’s so unlucky to be in an accident you didn’t cause…”, “I’ve been worried since yesterday,” “There’s a possibility of after-effects, so please absolutely don’t overdo it,” “Seatbelts are really important!!”, “I’m thankful that you always wear your seatbelt to protect yourself,” and “I’m looking forward to Yoasobi and your radio shows again.”
A Crucial Lesson Learned
While being involved in a car accident was undoubtedly a distressing experience, Yasumoto-san personally underscored the crucial importance of seatbelts. We can all look forward to seeing his vibrant and energetic self on next week’s Seiyuu to Yoasobi!
