On June 27, 2026, ABEMA exclusively aired a special program titled Sekai Saikyou no Kouei ~Meikyuu Kuni no Shinjin Tansakusha~ Housoumae Tokuban (Pre-Broadcast Special for World’s Strongest Rear Guard). The show featured the main cast and offered fans a behind-the-scenes look at the upcoming anime.
The anime is based on the light novel series by Touwa, originally published on Shousetsuka ni Narou. It follows Arihito, a former corporate slave who is reincarnated into the fantasy world of Meikyuu Kuni (Labyrinth Country) with the mysterious job class “Rear Guard.” Together with his companions, he grows as a labyrinth explorer. The TV anime began airing in July 2026.
The special program brought together the main voice cast: Matsuoka Yoshitsugu (Arihito), Koga Aoi (Teresia), Nakamura Sakura (Kyouka), Hayami Saori (Suzuna), and Hondo Kaede (Misaki). The MC was Aoyama Yuuma.
Behind the Mic: Cast Stories and Character Insights
Matsuoka, as the lead, shared his approach to the recording studio: “There are many female cast members, so I felt I had to behave properly. I always sit at the very end, near the entrance, reading the script.” The female cast members revealed a fun anecdote: “Before recording, Matsuoka-san would suddenly disappear, and we’d all wonder where he went.” It turned out he was outside drinking miso soup.
The cast then discussed their characters’ traits and appeal:
- Arihito (CV: Matsuoka Yoshitsugu): “In his past life he was a typical corporate slave, but the type who actively takes on work. Even in the other world, he can’t abandon his friends and stays up thinking about skills. He’s a protagonist naturally suited to supporting others.”
- Teresia (CV: Koga Aoi): “She can fight on the front lines and is a huge help to the party.” Since her character cannot speak, Koga added: “You can feel my presence through her breathing and battle reactions!”
- Kyouka (CV: Nakamura Sakura): “In her past life she was Arihito’s younger boss—a strong-willed career woman.” Nakamura noted the character’s cute side that contrasts with her professional demeanor.
- Suzuna (CV: Hayami Saori): “She’s a rear guard who uses a bow and can sense spiritual things. A kind and serious girl.”
- Misaki (CV: Hondo Kaede): “She’s Suzuna’s childhood friend and the party’s cheerful mood-maker. She has a skill based on luck and looks up to Arihito as ‘big brother.'”
Each cast member then highlighted a key element of the series. Matsuoka held up a sign reading “Saikyou” (Strongest): “This is an essential element. The protagonist isn’t strong from the start. He doesn’t just overpower enemies; he grows step by step, so you can watch with peace of mind.” Koga pointed to “Enemies”: “The enemies are genuinely tough. You’ll see how much trouble they cause. Watch how Arihito fights, uses his wits, and how everyone grows stronger together.” Nakamura chose “Corporate Slave”: “Many skills and experiences from the past life are applied in the new world. The dynamic between Kyouka and Arihito as former boss and subordinate is also interesting.” Hayami added, “E!? Konna koto mo…?” (Wait, even this…?) and Hondo said, “Jinsei wa gamble!!” (Life is a gamble!), each offering unique perspectives.
Matsuoka’s Unconventional Sleep Method Stuns the Studio
In the latter half, a segment titled “Please Support Me, Arihito-sama!” had Matsuoka addressing the cast’s real-life problems. Hondo expressed a desire for more muscle, but Matsuoka chose Koga’s issue: “I can’t fall asleep in complete darkness and silence because I start thinking.” Admitting he also has trouble sleeping, Matsuoka shared a unique actor’s trick: “Lie down, tense your body, and take slow deep breaths. If that doesn’t work, as a last resort, focus on the space between your eyebrows and perform a ‘snoring act’—pretend to snore.” The studio erupted in surprise at this unusual method.
Warmth Like Family: Cast Messages to Viewers
Closing the program, each cast member shared a message. Hondo: “Each member’s role and personality stand out. I think you’ll find parts that resonate with you, so please enjoy!” Hayami: “I hope you enjoy watching how Arihito, who can see everything and make sound judgments as a rear guard, drives the story.” Nakamura: “This is a slightly different work—not just watching from behind, but being watched over by a rear guard.” Koga: “The characters all come from completely different places, but there are warm family-like scenes. There are many ways to enjoy it.” Matsuoka concluded: “I hope you experience the growth of Arihito and his companions, and think about what ‘strongest’ truly means.”
The special program is available for free on ABEMA until September 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM. The TV anime airs every Sunday at 10:00 PM starting July 5, 2026, with simultaneous terrestrial broadcast and free exclusive streaming of the latest episodes.
(C)2026 Touwa・Kazahana Kazahana/KADOKAWA/Sekai Saikyou no Kouei Seisaku Iinkai
