![[EXCLUSIVE] Katsuhiro Harada Opens Up About VS Studio, SNK, and What Comes Next](https://cdn.gamerbraves.com/2026/05/Harada-VS-Studio_Interview_FI-1-360x180.jpg)
One Piece fans received an emotional and exciting update during Jump Festa 2025, as Kazuki Yao, the beloved voice of Franky for nearly 24 years, passed the torch to Subaru Kimura. Known for his roles as Aoi Todo in Jujutsu Kaisen and Takeshi “Gian” Goda in Doraemon, Kimura will now take on the role of the iconic cyborg shipwright.
A Heartfelt Farewell to Kazuki Yao
Yao announced earlier this month that he would “graduate” from voicing Franky, citing health concerns and a personal gap between his ideal vision of the character and his current abilities. The announcement came during an emotional panel, where Yao and the One Piece cast shared touching moments, including Mayumi Tanaka (Luffy’s voice actor) tearing up on stage.
Yao expressed his gratitude to fans and colleagues, saying:
A sad farewell has come, a separation with a person I have spent nearly a quarter of a century with. But a ‘su~per~replacement’ is ready to continue Franky’s journey.
#ジャンプフェスタ 2025、終了！
皆さん、ありがとうございました！ステージで撮影した
ス〜〜〜〜パ〜〜〜〜！！！な
お写真はこちら📸改めて矢尾さん、約20年にわたり
フランキー役をつとめてくださり、
本当に、ありがとうございました。昴さん、以後どうぞよろしくお願いします！#ONEPIECE pic.twitter.com/aEQ9x1QXgg
— ONE PIECE スタッフ【公式】/ Official (@Eiichiro_Staff) December 22, 2024
Subaru Kimura Steps In
Kimura is no stranger to the One Piece world, having voiced young Buggy in previous episodes. During the panel, Yao personally introduced Kimura, even teaching him Franky’s iconic “SUPER!” pose and presenting him with a replica of Franky’s red speedo. The event served as a symbolic passing of the torch, showcasing the camaraderie among the cast and the faith Yao has in his successor.
少しでも矢尾さんのス〜パ〜！！なフランキーに近づけるよう、心を込めて演らせていただきます。どうかこれからもよろしくお願いいたします！ pic.twitter.com/SqpxIyuRxp
— 木村昴 (@GiantSUBAru) December 22, 2024
Franky’s Return in the Egghead Arc
Fans eagerly awaiting Kimura’s debut as Franky will need to hold on until the One Piece anime resumes its Egghead Arc on April 6, 2025. In the meantime, Toei Animation is airing One Piece Log: Fish-Man Island Saga, a remastered abridged version of the Fish-Man Island arc with updated visuals.
A Legacy to Celebrate
Kazuki Yao’s portrayal of Franky has left an indelible mark on the One Piece franchise. While his departure marks the end of an era, fans are optimistic about Subaru Kimura’s ability to carry forward the spirit of Franky. With his dynamic voice acting and larger-than-life energy, Kimura seems poised to bring a fresh yet faithful take to the beloved character.
As the One Piece adventure continues, fans worldwide are excited to see Kimura’s interpretation and celebrate the legacy Yao has left behind.
