On August 16, 2026, a special stage greeting screening was held at TOHO Cinemas Shinjuku Screen 9 in Tokyo to commemorate the Blu-ray and DVD release of Gekijouban “Kimetsu no Yaiba” Mugenjou-hen Dai Isshou Akaza Sairi (Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Infinity Castle Arc – Chapter 1: The Return of Akaza). The event featured producer Takahashi Yuma as MC, along with voice actors Shimono Hiro (Zenitsu Agatsuma) and Hosoya Yoshimasa (Kaigaku).
The event opened with the two performers delivering lines from the film. Shimono appeared from the wings with the line “Thunder Breathing, Seventh Form: Honoikazuchi” and introduced himself, followed by Hosoya with “Thunder Breathing, Sixth Form: Denrai Denrai” and his own greeting. The audience responded with enthusiastic applause.
First Joint Stage Appearance
Although their characters are former fellow disciples under the care of former Hashira Jigoro Kuwajima, this was actually the first time the two voice actors appeared together at an event. For Hosoya, it was his first time attending a Kimetsu no Yaiba event at all. He expressed his excitement, while Shimono noted that he was more nervous than usual, jokingly suggesting they work together on stage despite their characters’ rivalry in the film.
Favorite Scenes and Character Insights
During the Q&A segment, Shimono shared his thoughts on the flashback scenes between Zenitsu and Kaigaku, revealing that he initially didn’t like Kaigaku until he recorded the film. He explained that through the recording process, he came to understand Zenitsu’s feelings, including the line “I’m sorry, big brother,” and encouraged viewers to watch the scenes multiple times to grasp the emotional weight behind Zenitsu’s final attack, Honoikazuchi.
Hosoya also highlighted the battle scenes between the two, including flashbacks, and discussed Kaigaku’s perspective, noting that Kaigaku had trained longer and mastered all forms except the first, making it understandable that he would be resentful when asked to share the succession with Zenitsu.
When asked about recording with Chiba Shigeru (Jigoro), Hosoya recalled that Shimono was unusually focused during the session. Shimono admitted it was possibly the most tense recording he had experienced for the series, as he felt he had to take on a leading role for the scene, similar to how the protagonist Tanjiro’s voice actor, Hanae Natsuki, usually supports the cast.
Hosoya also reflected on Kaigaku’s appeal, noting that many people can relate to his human flaws—jealousy, desire for recognition, and the frustration of unfair losses. He added that while Kaigaku’s actions are not commendable, his honesty about his desires makes him feel genuinely alive, and he admitted he doesn’t dislike the character.
Closing Remarks
In his closing remarks, Hosoya thanked the audience for their support of Kaigaku, which he said made it possible for him to stand on that stage. Shimono expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to discuss Zenitsu and Kaigaku in depth, noting that he had long wanted to share his belief that Kaigaku is not simply a villain. The event ended with warm applause and a lingering sense of appreciation.
Event Details
- Date: August 16, 2026 (Sunday)
- Venue: TOHO Cinemas Shinjuku Screen 9 (Shinjuku Toho Building 3F, 1-19-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo)
- Speakers: Shimono Hiro, Hosoya Yoshimasa
- MC: Takahashi Yuma (Producer)
(C) Koyoharu Gotoge / Shueisha, Aniplex, ufotable
