Get ready for an electrifying summer as the highly anticipated anime Cyborg 009: Nemesis prepares for its debut! Fans of Shōtarō Ishinomori's legendary manga have a new reason to celebrate, as the latest cast announcement reveals Kentarō Tone will lend his voice to Cyborg 007, famously known as Great Britain.
New Voices Join the Iconic Team
The staff of Ishimori Production's Cyborg 009: Nemesis officially announced on Tuesday that Kentarō Tone is taking on the pivotal role of Cyborg 007, the British operative known for his shapeshifting abilities. This exciting news sets the stage for the anime's streaming debut later this summer, promising a fresh take on a beloved classic.
Tone joins an already impressive lineup. Leading the charge is the ever-popular Yūki Kaji, who voices the series' main protagonist, Joe Shimamura, also known as Cyborg 009. Fans will also hear Yuu Hayashi as Cyborg 008/Pyunma, rounding out a formidable core team ready for action.
The Nemesis Group: A Powerful Threat
Adding to the anticipation, the anime's official website has been teasing fans with weekly reveals of new main cast members for the antagonist group, Nemesis. Over the past two months, a stellar array of voice talent has been announced, hinting at a truly formidable opposing force. Here's a look at the menacing Nemesis team:
- Yūichi Nakamura as Graviton / Nemesis 009
- Ayane Sakura as Deps / Nemesis 008
- Maaya Uchida as Morphone / Nemesis 007
- Shion Wakayama as Blitz / Nemesis 006
- Tetsu Inada as Aspida / Nemesis 005
- Kikuko Inoue as Opro / Nemesis 004
- Hiroshi Kamiya as Crack / Nemesis 003
- Yoshimasa Hosoya as Blizzard / Nemesis 002
- Rina Hidaka as Mu / Nemesis 001
This roster of acclaimed voice actors promises intense confrontations and memorable performances as the cyborg heroes face their new adversaries.
Visionary Creative Team
Bringing Cyborg 009: Nemesis to life is a talented creative team. Hideki Ambo is directing the anime at Arect, the studio behind the production. The screenplay is in capable hands with Atsuhiro Tomioka, known for his work on Pokémon, and CHARATEX. Character designs are crafted by sanorin, ensuring a fresh yet faithful visual interpretation of Ishinomori's iconic characters.
An Iconic Theme Song Returns
Adding a nostalgic yet powerful touch, singer Kyōko from the renowned rock band Barbee Boys will perform the theme song, "Taga Tame ni" (For Whom). This powerful anthem holds a special place in the franchise's history, as it was originally featured in the 1979 Cyborg 009 television anime series. Ken Narita and Koorogi '73 originally performed the track, with none other than Ishinomori himself penning the poignant lyrics. This revival of a classic song is sure to resonate with long-time fans while introducing its legacy to a new generation.
The Enduring Legacy of Cyborg 009
Shōtarō Ishinomori's Cyborg 009 manga first launched in Shōnengahōsha's Weekly King magazine in July 1964. The compelling story follows a global organization called Black Ghost, which transforms nine individuals into cyborg soldiers. These cyborgs, however, rebel against their creators, fighting to prevent the world from being locked into eternal war. This timeless narrative has captivated audiences for decades, making it a cornerstone of sci-fi anime.
The manga's enduring popularity has led to numerous adaptations across various mediums. It inspired television anime series in 1968, 1979, and 2001, alongside films released in 1966, 1967, and 1980. More recently, the franchise saw a resurgence with the 009 Re:Cyborg movie in 2012 and Cyborg 009 Call of Justice in 2016. A thrilling crossover original video anime (OVA) with Devilman also debuted in 2015, further expanding its universe.
Even in the manga realm, Cyborg 009 continues to thrive. Tsuguo Okazaki launched the Cyborg 009 Bgooparts Delete manga in July 2019, which concluded in September 2022. Scriptwriter Masaki Tsuji and artist Masato Hayase also launched a brand-new manga titled Cyborg 009 Taiheiyō no Bōrei (Cyborg 009: Ghost of the Pacific) in April 2024, demonstrating the franchise's perpetual appeal and evolution.
With a rich history, a compelling new story, and an exceptional cast, Cyborg 009: Nemesis is poised to be one of the most exciting anime debuts this summer. Mark your calendars and prepare to join the cyborgs in their latest battle!
