From Livedoor News (Jan 22, 2019)

Interview by Reiko Chiba

Photos by Takuma Suda

Produced by Enfant

The Promised Neverland is a popular series published in Shueisha’s Weekly Shonen Jump. Over 8.7 million volumes of the critically-acclaimed manga have been sold worldwide, and now, the cast of its anime adaptation is at the center of attention.

The protagonist, Emma, is played by Sumire Morohoshi, who has nearly 16 years of acting experience despite being 19 years old. Norman is played by Maaya Uchida, who has been cast as a male main character for the first time. Ray is played by Mariya Ise, a veteran known for voicing Killua in Hunter x Hunter.

During the interview, the trio gushed about how badly they had wanted to be cast in the show, as well as how their determination made the audition process all the more nerve-wracking.

But after overcoming those obstacles, they landed their dream roles—and an incredible team of actresses was born.

L-R: Maaya Uchida, Sumire Morohoshi, and Mariya Ise.

The Voices in the Recording Studio Fit the Animation Perfectly

What did you think about episode 1 after watching it?

Morohoshi: I was blown away by the movie-level animation quality. In the beginning—when Emma, Norman, and Ray are playing tag with the other kids—the background art was so beautiful, and the atmosphere created by the glistening leaves felt so real. It seemed like a nice, idyllic environment for children to grow up and spend time in.

That said, there was a huge dichotomy between the peaceful first half and the devastating second half, which suddenly threw us into the deep end. I bet that first episode hooked a lot of viewers.

Ise: In the second half, Conny (played by Ari Ozawa)—a little girl who grew up with Emma and the others—is found dead with a horrified look on her face. It was a drastic shift in tone from the first half, which showed the children leading fun, happy lives as a loving family.

Their “Mom”—Isabella (played by Yuko Kaida)—was awfully kind, and gave off the impression that she raised each and every child with care. But by the second half, you’re wondering where that kind Mom went. This stark contrast between light and dark that defines The Promised Neverland is established in just 30 minutes.

How about you, Uchida-san?

Uchida: The voices I heard in the recording studio fit the animation perfectly. I thought I’d be the only one worried about recording… But everyone else in the room seemed pretty nervous, too. I’m relieved episode 1 turned out well.

It’s my first time playing a young male lead, so I was just as anxious to record as I was to audition. I kept asking the staff, “Is my acting okay?” Even if they replied, “It’s fine,” I didn’t feel any less nervous.

However, as soon as I watched episode 1, the fact that “The Promised Neverland is here” hit me, since the characters and their voices all looked and sounded exactly how I imagined they would. At that moment, I knew everyone would enjoy this series.

Their Desired Role was the Opposite One? Secrets of the Nerve-Wracking Auditions

I heard that you all read the manga to prepare for your auditions. What did you think of it?

Morohoshi: I had assumed that all Jump protagonists were boys, so I was surprised to learn the protagonist was a girl. The story, which centers around escaping from the Grace Field House, and the world, which is inhabited by demons, also stood out to me.

But as I continued reading, I felt the thrill of awaiting the next plot twist, watched as friends teamed up against foes they couldn’t beat on their own, and realized this was a Jump series after all. I was so entranced by this combination of fresh ideas and classic tropes that I caught up in one sitting.

Ise: Yeah, once I started reading it on my phone, I couldn’t stop. I was like, “I need a physical copy!” So I went to the bookstore the next day and bought every volume.

Uchida: I was also reading it on my phone at first, and before I knew it [pretends to grip a phone with both hands], I was stuck in this pose. It was late at night, but by the time I looked up, the sun had already come up. It was every bit as suspenseful and interesting as Sumire-chan described. The more I read, the more I wanted to play one of the characters.

Ise: These kids are thrown from a peaceful world into a pit of despair. But rather than give up hope, they reject the status quo and search for a way out. It’s quite a wake-up call for those of us living peacefully in today’s Japan.

Other children besides the main trio appear in this series, but even when faced with the same situation, they make different decisions. I didn’t exactly put myself in their shoes, but as I read the manga, I’d ask myself hypothetical questions like “Would I feel how Emma feels?” or “Would I think how Norman thinks?”

Did you all audition for multiple roles?

Morohoshi: No, just Emma.

Ise: I auditioned for Emma and Norman.

Uchida: I was asked to read for Emma, Norman, and Ray.

Morohoshi: Looking back, my studio audition included an important scene—the one in episode 1 when Emma lets out a tear-filled scream (after seeing Conny’s corpse, the demons, and Isabella at the gate). That was the first time our bright, positive, headstrong Emma had ever felt true despair, so I thought long and hard about how to best portray it.

Since I didn’t get any detailed feedback during my audition, I couldn’t stop wondering, “Did I do that right?” once it was over.

Uchida: I was anxious after mine as well. By the time I got to the studio for my audition, it was already packed with voice actors famous for playing young boys. Frankly, I was starting to doubt myself…

It would’ve been my first time playing a boy for an entire cour, and in a dialogue-heavy series to boot. But I was still determined to get the role no matter what. Back then, Ray was my top choice.

Ise: Maaya-chan wanted to be Ray, while I wanted to be Norman.

Uchida: The role I got wasn’t the one I wanted… Funny how things work out, huh. Come to think of it, I auditioned for Norman right after auditioning for Ray. I guess after playing someone as aggressive as Ray, I was able to relax more when I played Norman.

Props to my manager for letting me take on such a challenging audition even though I barely had any experience with male roles.

Ise: I had submitted tape auditions for both Emma and Norman, but I was only called in to do a studio audition for Norman. I was dying to succeed at that point, so I tried not to come off as desperate during my audition.

I’ve recently been volunteering at a pediatric cancer center, which means I’ve had more opportunities to hang out with children who are obsessed with reading The Promised Neverland. Since some of those children are unable to leave the hospital, I thought I could inspire them—and give them courage and hope—by appearing in this series.

I see. Then, how did you feel when you were cast as Ray?

Ise: I’m mostly comfortable with playing him now. Although I admire Norman, I’m more similar to Ray. Thankfully, a lot of people have told me that I’m “perfect” as Ray, so I’m very proud to have been cast as him.

I used to play a character from another Jump series who resembles Ray—a boy with a dark past and a twisted personality—so I’ve made it my goal to differentiate the two.





How did those around you react to the news, Morohoshi-san?

Morohoshi: A bunch of people contacted me when the cast was announced, which made me realize that this series was popular among all genders. It was right around the time I entered college, so I got messages like “That’s awesome!” This series has helped me make a lot of friends at school. [laughs]

Uchida-san, was there also a big reaction to you being cast as a boy?

Uchida: Yeah, even the people closest to me were really surprised. Before I was allowed to share the news, I went to the bookstore with my mom. She’s always been an avid manga reader, but she picked up a volume of The Promised Neverland and said, “This one’s interesting.” I couldn’t tell her that I’d been cast yet, so I just responded with “What? Oh, um, have you been reading it…?” [laughs]

The cast hadn’t even been announced when the first voiced promotional video came out. I don’t share every role I get with my mom, but I was dying to ask her, “Hey hey… Have you seen this video?” [laughs] I wanted to tell her, “Listen closely.”





No Lies in Her Words: Morohoshi’s Impressive Acting Prowess

Have you recorded any memorable scenes thus far?

Ise: This isn’t exactly a scene per se, but I was impressed by how Sumire-chan never lies when she speaks into the mic as Emma. As you know, we get our lines ahead of time, which means we subconsciously plan out how we’ll perform them in advance. But in Sumire-chan’s case, every word that comes out of her mouth sounds sincere, as if they represent her true feelings in that moment.

Emma is Grace Field’s beacon of hope, the force that pushes everyone forward. She’s both the heroine and a hero, so naturally, that makes me want to follow Sumire-chan too!

Uchida: I agree. She’s such a reliable protagonist. Truly, I’d follow Sumire-chan anywhere!

Morohoshi: Well… I feel reassured having you two by my side.

Uchida & Ise: Aww!

Morohoshi-san, what do you keep in mind when you’re acting?

Morohoshi: Emma’s not the type to think too deeply before speaking, but her innocent words and unwavering spirit still influence the people around her. In my opinion, that positive aura is what empowers her to be a natural leader. Since her “Emma-ness” goes away if I overthink, I try to rely more on my intuition when I play her.

To be fair, my two costars are an even better fit for their characters.





What do you think of Ise-san’s character, Ray?

Morohoshi: For starters, I’m amazed by how she can maintain such a deep voice while playing him. The way his voice gets slightly higher and sometimes cracks when he’s agitated feels especially real.

As soon as I noticed the gap between his emotional immaturity and his mental maturity, I went, “That’s Ray alright.”

Ise: You’re too kind.

Uchida: I’ve liked Ray the Nihilist ever since I read the manga, and Mariya-chan’s version of him is just as cool. He has the power to lead others in a way neither Emma nor Norman can.

I like it when he’s rude to Emma and Norman. For example, in episode 2, when he asks Norman, “Why? Aren’t you different?” and then grabs him by the collar so hard that he can’t run. Mariya-chan really nailed that part!

Ise: At first glance Ray seems level-headed, but he’s actually quite transparent with his feelings. He gets angry, yells, and sulks. He’s surprisingly childish at times.

Ray’s on a “certain mission” involving Grace Field, but he can’t accomplish it on his own… Considering his backstory, it’s no wonder he’s pessimistic and dispassionate about the outside world. Yet, Emma and Norman—who he met in the midst of his struggles—have become more and more important to him, so he’s determined to save at least the two of them. He’s an extremely considerate, courageous, and caring young man on the inside.

Uchida: He acts cute whenever Isabella’s around, though.

Ise: It’s weird to hear such a nihilistic guy refer to Isabella as “Mom,” huh.

Morohoshi: He’s so cute he when does that. Ise-san does vocal warm-ups before playing him, so I’ve been learning her vocal exercises.

What kind of vocal exercises?

Ise: (low-pitched) Hnn hnn hnn hnn, (high-pitched) hnn hnn hnn hnn, (low-pitched again) hnn hnn hnn hnn. That kind.

Morohoshi: Isn’t her range amazing?

Ise: That’s the trick I use to slip into Ray’s voice. I lower my voice before walking up to the mic. I also do some stretches in the studio before we begin. Everybody else goes directly up to the mic—like the professionals they are—but I need to warm-up, tune my voice, and get into the groove one step at a time. I’m sure we each have our own method of getting ready.

Uchida: In my case, I guess I feed off other people’s energy. Our mics are always stationed in the same spot, so whenever the three of us stand side-by-side, I know everything’s going to be fine.

Norman’s Heart-Throbbing Line: “Let’s run away. Together, with everyone.”

What do you think of Uchida-san’s character, Norman?

Morohoshi: Just hearing Norman’s voice makes me feel at ease.

Ise: Same!

Morohoshi: Although Emma is emotionally shaken until episode 3 or so, Norman stays composed and is there for her. It’s comforting to hear Maaya-san speak in such a calm and collected tone. I tend to shudder when I say my lines, but she calms me right down. Like a tranquilizer.

Uchida: Yay, I’m happy to hear that.

Ise: Maaya-chan and I costarred in Hunter x Hunter as Alluka and Killua, so I’m happy we got the chance to work together again. I was curious to see how she’d do as a boy… Turns out she’s perfect!

Uchida: Thank you very much!

Ise: Her delicate approach to acting reminds me of Norman. Maaya-chan’s soothing voice—the clear, unmuddled voice of a prepubescent boy from the Vienna Boy’s Choir—is simply perfect for him.

I originally wanted to play Norman, but once I heard Maaya-chan’s Norman voice, I decided to go for Ray instead.

Uchida: Norman’s a genius who always wears a smile and never raises his voice. He can instantly assess any situation and make snap decisions. I try not to make him sound too friendly when he’s giving explanations to the other children or the audience.

He’s so quick-witted that others have trouble following his train of thought. That’s why his demeanor is the same whether he’s having fun or being serious.

In addition, I was conscious of his masculinity. Norman and Ray—the oldest kids—are basically the only manly characters at the Grace Field House. I thought it’d be nice to show off his flirty side, like when he admits his feelings for Emma.

Ise: Norman’s not embarrassed to say phrases that make girls blush.

Uchida: Exactly. You could already tell that he liked Emma in episode 1.

Ise: All three of them are 11 years old. Boys at that age tend to be shy, and either avoid their crushes or tease them on purpose, but Norman was thoughtful enough to sit next to Emma and ask her if she was okay. What a gentleman.

My favorite scene in episode 1 is when Emma runs into Norman at the wall in the middle of tag, and he goes, [imitates Maaya’s voice] “You caught me.” I was like, “He said that so smoothly! Maaya-chan’s the best!” [laughs]

Uchida: Why, thank you! [laughs] Something important I try to be conscious of is Norman’s open-mindedness, his acceptance of everyone and everything. In fact, I get a little embarrassed when we’re recording an intense scene in the studio and I start to see Emma as Sumire-chan. [laughs]

Morohoshi: Fufu. [laughs]

Uchida: I might’ve said something presumptuous just now… What do you think? [laughs]

Morohoshi: I’m desperately trying not to fall in love. [laughs] The last thing this series needs is romance! After all, Emma doesn’t express any romantic feelings. Although that scene at the end of episode 1—when Emma and Norman are talking in the bedroom—was a close call!

Ise: The scene where Norman says, “It’s okay. Let’s run away, with everyone,” right? I know!

Morohoshi: After we recorded that part, everyone was like, “What a hunk!” [laughs]

Ise: He’s a sly dog, isn’t he?

Morohoshi: He sure is.

Their Ages, Personalities, and Interests are All Over the Place… So What “Promise” Did They Make?!

I heard that this is the first time all three of you have been interviewed at once. (Note: This interview was conducted in late November 2018.)

Uchida: That’s right. I’ve never worked this closely with Sumire-chan before. We did play sisters on a show called GJ Club, though.

Ise: It’s also my first time being a regular on a show with Sumire-chan.

Morohoshi-san, what do you see the other two as?

Morohoshi: [stares at Uchida and Ise] My gorgeous older sisters…

Uchida & Ise: [laughs out of embarrassment]

Morohoshi: Every time I watch Ise-san play Ray from up close, and hear that cool voice coming from that beautiful face, I fall in love. [laughs]

Uchida: I totally get what you mean! [laughs]

Morohoshi: As for Maaya-san, like I mentioned earlier, her presence helps me relax so that I can record in peace.

Uchida: In terms of acting, Sumire-chan is often the one leading the pack. However, in contrast to Emma, she’s more like [imitates Morohoshi’s voice] “Okaaay, sounds good.” She’s pretty carefree, in a cute and comfy way.

Ise: Sumire-chan exemplifies gap moe. She’s diligent at work, and relaxed in her daily life. I can tell that she’s generally down-to-earth and easygoing. If she only could act more dignified. Then, she’d be a real hotshot.

Despite being much younger, she has way more acting experience than I do. She’s learned so much from being involved in so many different productions.

Uchida: As for Mariya-chan, I admire how stunning she looks in front of the mic. There’s a lot I can learn from her because her strengths are different than mine. I’ve been observing how she handles her roles, and I’ll be sure to keep a close eye on both Sumire-chan and Mariya-chan until the final episode.

Morohoshi-san. As a teenager, do you want to take this opportunity to ask your big sisters anything?

Morohoshi: Hm, what should I ask…?

Uchida: Whatever you want. [laughs]

Morohoshi: I’ve always been one of the youngest in the studio, so I’ve never had the courage to invite people out to eat or ask for their contact info… How would you feel if a youngster approached you about those things?

Ise: Wouldn’t you be delighted if a younger colleague did that?

Uchida: Yeah! For sure!

Morohoshi: I was hoping we could grab a meal together, but I don’t know if I should ask.

Uchida: No problem! Let’s go!

Ise: Now’s your chance!

Morohoshi: Awesome! Thank you so much.

Uchida: I’m kind of curious what our soft and cuddly Sumire-chan is like when she’s drunk.

Ise: When can you start drinking alcohol?

Morohoshi: I turn 20 next April. (TN: The drinking age in Japan is 20.)

Uchida: Cool, how about we go drinking once you’re 20?

Ise: Let’s do it, let’s do it!

Morohoshi: Hooraaay.

What sort of topics get you girls excited?

Ise: I want to show Maaya-chan some beauty products.

Uchida: Sure, I’m a cosmetics maniac anyways.

Is that so?

Uchida: Yup, I bring my own cosmetics to events. I love doing my own makeup.

Morohoshi-san, what sort of stuff do you like?

Morohoshi: Well, I like eating. I love meat, so I’ll eat that whenever it’s available. I’m always searching for good barbecue spots. I don’t have any real hobbies, though… What are you two interested in?

Ise: I like makeovers and massages.

Uchida: I like baseball, and going to the stadium in uniform to cheer for my team.

Ise: Wait, seriously?!

Uchida: I’m a Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks fan, so I usually spend my days off in Fukuoka.

Morohoshi: Woah, I need to know more!

Sumire Morohoshi

Born on April 23. Blood type: A. Notable roles include: Ichigo Hoshimiya (Aikatsu!), Hitoka Yachi (Haikyu!!), Hinami Fueguchi (Tokyo Ghoul), Kyoka Izumi (Bungo Stray Dogs), Vanellope von Schweetz (Wreck-It Ralph), and Mei Ayazuki (Meiji Tokyo Renka).

Maaya Uchida

Born on December 12 in Tokyo. Blood type: A. Notable roles include: Rikka Takanashi (Love, Chunibyo & Other Delusions), Ranko Kanzaki (The Idolm@ster: Cinderella Girls), Sharo Kirima (Is the Order a Rabbit?), Nodoka Toyohama (Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai), Kanna Hatano (YU-NO: A Girl Who Chants Love at the Bound of This World), Ayame (Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress), and Rui Tachibana (Domestic Girlfriend).

Mariya Ise

Born on September 25 in Kanagawa Prefecture. Blood type: A. Notable roles include: Urara Kasugano / Cure Lemonade (Yes! Precure 5), Levy McGarden and Romeo Conbolt (Fairy Tail), Huang Pao-Lin / Dragon Kid (Tiger & Bunny), Killua Zoldyck (Hunter x Hunter), Midari Ikishima (Kakegurui), Reg (Made in Abyss), and Cathy (Angels of Death).