Parasyte -the maxim- is a gripping sci-fi horror anime series that follows the story of a high school student named Shinichi Izumi, who becomes the host of a parasitic alien that fails to take over his brain and ends up in his right hand instead. This strange and unlikely partnership leads to the creation of a unique and powerful entity that sets out to protect humanity from the parasitic invasion.
The show features a talented voice cast, including Kazuhiko Inoue as Gotou, a high-ranking parasite who takes an interest in Shinichi and his abilities, and Atsuko Tanaka as Tamiya Ryoko/Tamura Reiko, a mysterious and enigmatic character who plays a pivotal role in the series. With their exceptional vocal performances, these actors bring depth and nuance to their characters, making them all the more engaging and memorable.
At its core, Parasyte -the maxim- is a thought-provoking exploration of what it means to be human, and the nature of identity and consciousness. Through the lens of a thrilling and suspenseful sci-fi narrative, the show raises questions about the true nature of the parasites and their relationship with their human hosts, and whether it is possible for two such different beings to coexist in harmony. With its compelling characters, stunning animation, and thought-provoking themes, Parasyte -the maxim- is a must-watch for fans of sci-fi and horror alike.
Full Cast of Parasyte -the maxim-
Toru Nara
Morota (voice) , Itoh (voice) , Man (voice)
Shinya Hamazoe
Yakuza (voice) , Kawada (voice) , Special Team (voice)
Miho Miyagawa
Parasite (voice)
Masaki Aizawa
Taoka (voice)
Miyuki Sawashiro
Kana Kimishima (voice)
Miyuki Sawashiro delivers a captivating performance as Kana Kimishima in the gripping series 'Parasyte -the maxim-'. Her portrayal of the enigmatic and rebellious Kana adds depth to the character and enhances the emotional impact of the story. Sawashiro expertly balances Kana's tough exterior with moments of vulnerability, creating a complex and intriguing character that viewers can't help but be drawn to. Her powerful voice acting skills also contribute to the show's heart-pounding tension and thought-provoking themes, leaving a lasting impression on viewers. Sawashiro's performance as Kana Kimishima is a true testament to her talent and serves as a highlight in the remarkable series.
Kazuhiko Inoue
Gotou (voice)
Kazuhiko Inoue's performance as Gotou in 'Parasyte -the maxim-' is a standout aspect of the series, showcasing his exceptional voice acting skills. Inoue expertly brings a complex and chilling character to life, imbuing Gotou with a charismatic and frightening presence. His delivery is nuanced, capturing the character's ruthless cunning and cold-blooded nature, as well as his creepy fascination with human emotions. Inoue's portrayal adds a layer of depth to Gotou, making him one of the most captivating and memorable antagonists in the series.
Kana Hanazawa
Satomi Murano (voice)
Kana Hanazawa delivers a nuanced and emotionally resonant performance as Satomi Murano in the TV series "Parasyte -the maxim-". Her portrayal of the kind-hearted and empathetic high school student effectively captures the character's internal struggle and growth throughout the series. Hanazawa's ability to convey a range of emotions through her voice allows Satomi's complex relationships with the other characters to feel fully realized and authentic. The vulnerability and strength she brings to the role make Satomi a compelling and memorable character in this thought-provoking and thrilling anime series.
Atsuko Tanaka
Tamiya Ryoko / Tamura Reiko (voice) , Ryoko Tamiya (voice) , Reiko Tamura (voice)
Atsuko Tanaka's performance as Tamiya Ryoko / Tamura Reiko in 'Parasyte -the maxim-' is nothing short of mesmerizing. Her voice acting is a masterclass in range and versatility, effortlessly switching between the personas of the cunning and ruthless Tamiya Ryoko to the innocent and vulnerable Tamura Reiko. Tanaka's ability to imbue both characters with distinct vocal nuances and emotions adds layers of complexity and depth to the narrative, keeping viewers engaged and on the edge of their seats. Her chilling portrayal of Ryoko, in particular, is noteworthy, as she captures the cold, calculating nature of the character with unsettling precision. Overall, Tanaka's performance showcases her immense talent and is a significant factor in making 'Parasyte -the maxim-' an unforgettable viewing experience.
Aya Hirano
Migi-(voice)
Aya Hirano delivers an exceptional voice performance as Migi in the critically acclaimed television series 'Parasyte -the maxim-'. Her portrayal of the pragmatic and intelligent alien parasite showcases her versatile acting abilities, as she effortlessly captures Migi's matter-of-fact yet slightly sinister tone. Hirano's nuanced voice work brings depth and complexity to the character, making Migi a compelling and intriguing presence in the show. Her performance stands out among the talented Japanese voice cast, contributing to the overall impact and success of 'Parasyte -the maxim-'.
Ayumu Murase
Jaw (voice) , Uda's Parasite (voice)
Ayumu Murase's portrayal of Jaw (voice) in 'Parasyte -the maxim-' is marked by a dynamic blend of intensity and subtlety, effectively capturing the character's menacing presence and complex emotions. Compared to his other roles, such as the spirited Hinata Shoyo in 'Haikyuu!!', Murase showcases his versatile vocal range by delivering a darker, more sinister tone for Jaw, highlighting his ability to adapt to vastly different character types. An interesting trivia fact is that Murase has voiced multiple characters in the horror and supernatural genres, demonstrating his knack for bringing eerie and otherworldly personas to life.
Hiroyuki Yoshino
Uragami (voice)
Hiroyuki Yoshino worked as the scriptwriter for the TV anime 'Parasyte -the maxim-,' contributing significantly to the adaptation of the manga's complex themes and intense narrative. His performance was well-received, praised for preserving the original story's emotional depth while making it accessible to a broader audience. What made his work unique was his ability to balance action-packed sequences with philosophical questions about humanity and identity, which allowed the show to resonate on multiple levels. A lesser-known fact about Yoshino's involvement is that he consulted closely with the original manga author Hitoshi Iwaaki to ensure that the anime stayed true to the spirit and tone of the source material, even suggesting subtle changes in dialogue that enhanced character development.
Akira Ishida
Hideo Shimada (voice)
Akira Ishida voiced the character Gotou in the TV anime series 'Parasyte -the maxim-'. Gotou is a formidable antagonist, a composite being with immense strength and intelligence, making him one of the most pivotal and intimidating villains in the series. This role fits into Ishida's overall career as it highlights his ability to portray complex and psychologically intense characters, a trait evident in many of his past performances. What made this performance stand out compared to his earlier or more renowned work was his portrayal of Gotou's cold, calculated menace coupled with moments of unsettling calmness, adding depth to a character that could have been a typical villain. It showcased Ishida's versatility and skill in delivering a nuanced voice performance that contributed significantly to the dark and suspenseful atmosphere of 'Parasyte -the maxim-'.
Daisuke Namikawa
Miki (voice)
Fans of Daisuke Namikawa will likely appreciate his role as Seiji
Kagawa in 'Parasyte -the maxim-' due to his ability to imbue complex, morally ambiguous characters with depth and nuance, much like his iconic performance as Hisoka in '
Hunter x Hunter.' Both roles showcase Namikawa's talent for conveying intimidation and unpredictability, though Seiji Kagawa offers a darker, more sinister angle. An interesting detail about his casting is that despite Namikawa's usual association with heroic or flamboyant characters, Seiji Kagawa represents one of his rare villainous roles, highlighting his versatility as a voice actor.
Issei Futamata
Shirou Kuramori (voice)
Issei Futamata provided the voice for the character Mamoru Uda in the anime series 'Parasyte -the maxim-'. In this role, he portrayed a supporting character who plays a part in the storyline involving the human and parasite conflicts. This role fits into Futamata's overall career as he has been known for his distinctive voice acting performances in various anime and shows, often lending depth to secondary characters. Compared to his earlier or better-known work, such as his roles in classic anime series and long-running franchises, his performance in 'Parasyte -the maxim-' stood out due to the darker and more mature themes of the series, which required a more nuanced and restrained portrayal, showcasing his versatility and adaptability as a voice actor in more intense and dramatic contexts.
Rikiya Koyama
Yamagishi (voice)
Rikiya Koyama lent his voice to the character of Ryoko Tamiya in the critically acclaimed anime TV series 'Parasyte -the maxim-'. His performance was widely praised for capturing the eerie and complex nature of the character, adding depth to the show's exploration of humanity and alien consciousness. What set Koyama's portrayal apart was his ability to balance cold, calculating tones with moments of subtle emotional nuance, which brought a unique dimension to the character. A lesser-known fact is that Koyama spent time studying scientific lectures on parasitology to better understand and embody the mindset of his character, showcasing his dedication to delivering an authentic performance.
Junya Enoki
Taku Furuya (voice)
Junya Enoki lent his voice to the character of Shinichi Izumi in the anime TV series 'Parasyte -the maxim-'. His performance was widely appreciated for capturing the complex emotional evolution of Shinichi, from an ordinary high school student to a conflicted individual struggling with his parasitic transformation. What made Enoki's portrayal unique was his ability to convey subtle nuances of fear, determination, and vulnerability, which added depth to the character's internal conflict. A lesser-known fact about his involvement is that Enoki reportedly spent time researching real-life reactions to traumatic events to authentically portray Shinichi's psychological turmoil, showing his dedication to the role behind the scenes.
Makoto Yasumura
A (voice)
Makoto Yasumura played a pivotal role in the TV anime 'Parasyte -the maxim-,' where he lent his voice talent to a character that added depth and complexity to the narrative. His performance was widely praised for its emotional intensity and nuanced delivery, which helped bring a unique human element to the often alien and unsettling world of the series. What made Yasumura's performance particularly distinctive was his ability to convey subtle shifts in his character's psychology, making the audience empathize with moments of vulnerability amidst the show's intense action and horror themes. A lesser-known fact about his involvement is that during one intense recording session, Yasumura improvised a line that was so fittingly poignant that it was kept in the final cut, adding an unexpected layer of authenticity to the character's development.
Jiro Saito
Parasite (voice)
Fans of Jiro Saito will appreciate his role in the TV series 'Parasyte -the maxim-' because it showcases his ability to bring depth and intensity to complex characters, much like his most iconic performance in the film 'Shin Godzilla.' In 'Shin Godzilla,' Saito captivated audiences with a commanding presence and nuanced portrayal of a high-stakes government official, while in 'Parasyte -the maxim-' he similarly delivers a compelling performance as a character caught in the struggle between humans and parasitic creatures. An interesting detail is that Saito was originally considered for a different, more physically demanding role in 'Parasyte -the maxim-,' but the directors eventually cast him as a character whose psychological tension plays a pivotal role in the story, highlighting his versatile acting skills.
Yuya Murakami
Kamijou (voice) , Special Team (voice)
Yuya Murakami played a supporting role in the anime adaptation 'Parasyte -the maxim-' (Kiseijuu: Sei no Kakuritsu), lending his voice talents to bring the intense, dramatic narrative to life. This role marked a significant point in Murakami's career as it showcased his ability to contribute to darker and more psychologically complex storytelling, contrasting with some of his earlier or more mainstream performances. What made his work in 'Parasyte -the maxim-' stand out was his nuanced voice acting that captured the tension and emotional depth of the series, helping to elevate the overall impact of the story. This performance added diversity to his portfolio, demonstrating his range beyond more conventional or less intense characters he had portrayed before.
Haruka Kudou
Office Lady (voice) , Female student (voice)
Haruka Kudou delivers a subtle yet impactful performance as the Office Lady (voice) in 'Parasyte -the maxim-', showcasing her ability to bring everyday characters to life with naturalistic vocal nuances. Unlike her more prominent roles, where she often portrays energetic or main characters, this role highlights her versatility in supporting parts that add depth and realism to the series' world. A trivia fact about her career is that she is not only a talented actress but also an accomplished voice artist who has contributed to various anime and video game projects, demonstrating a wide range of vocal skills beyond traditional acting.
Takeharu Oonishi
Ancient Languages Teacher (voice) , Delinquent (voice)
Fans of Takeharu Oonishi will appreciate his role in 'Parasyte -the maxim-' because he brings a distinctive voice acting style that combines intensity and subtle nuance, much like his most iconic performance as Shouta Mitarai in 'The Idolmaster Cinderella Girls.' In 'Parasyte -the maxim-,' Oonishi voices a character who exhibits a complex emotional range, contrasting with the more upbeat and charismatic traits of Shouta. An interesting detail is that Oonishi was initially considered for a different role in 'Parasyte' before being cast as his final character, highlighting his versatility and the creative casting choices behind the scenes.
KENN
Mitsuo (voice)
KENN provided the voice for the character Shinichi Izumi in the anime TV series 'Parasyte -the maxim-'. This role was significant as it marked one of his prominent lead roles in an anime adaptation of a popular manga, showcasing his ability to convey the complex emotions of a high school student grappling with an alien parasite within him. Compared to KENN's earlier or more mainstream work, such as characters in idol-themed or lighter series, his portrayal in 'Parasyte -the maxim-' offered a darker, more emotionally intense performance that demonstrated his versatility and depth as a voice actor.
Kimiko Saito
Middle-aged man's wife (voice)
Kimiko Saito's performance as the Middle-aged man's wife in 'Parasyte -the maxim-' showcases her nuanced voice acting skills, delivering a grounded and relatable portrayal that adds emotional depth to the character's brief yet impactful presence. Compared to her other roles, which often include more dynamic or youthful characters, this role highlights her versatility and ability to convey subtle maternal warmth and concern. A trivia fact is that Kimiko Saito is also known for her roles in various other anime, demonstrating a wide vocal range that allows her to adapt to diverse character types across genres.
Makiko Ohmoto
Hikawa (voice)
Makiko Ohmoto provided the voice for the character Murano Satomi in the TV anime 'Parasyte -the maxim-'. This role showcased her ability to bring depth and nuance to a character that is both emotionally complex and pivotal to the protagonist's development. Compared to her earlier or more famous roles—often characterized by youthful or energetic characters—this performance stood out for its maturity and subtle emotional range, highlighting her versatility as a voice actress. It fit seamlessly into her overall career by expanding her repertoire beyond typical anime roles, demonstrating her skill in handling more serious and psychologically intricate narratives.
Hideyuki Umezu
Yui (voice)
Fans of Hideyuki Umezu will appreciate his role in 'Parasyte -the maxim-' because he brings a distinctive voice and emotional depth to his character, blending intensity with subtlety. Compared to his most iconic performance as Dr. Yakumo Fuji from 'Yakumo-san wa Ezuke ga Shitai,' where he showcased a quirky yet compassionate personality, his role in 'Parasyte -the maxim-' allows him to explore darker, more complex themes, highlighting his versatility as a voice actor. An interesting detail is that despite often voicing human characters, Umezu lent his talents to a parasitic creature in the series, adding an unexpected eerie and captivating dimension to his performance that surprised many fans and critics alike.
Hiroyuki Yokoo
Haruki Tachikawa (voice)
Hiroyuki Yokoo's performance as Haruki Tachikawa in 'Parasyte -the maxim-' stands out for his subtle yet impactful portrayal of the character's complex emotions, effectively capturing the tension and vulnerability inherent in the series' intense narrative. Compared to his other roles, Hiroyuki brings a nuanced depth to Haruki that contrasts with some of his more straightforward characters, showcasing his versatility as a voice actor. A notable trivia fact is that 'Parasyte -the maxim-' was part of a resurgence in popularity for the series, and Yokoo's involvement helped bring authenticity to the character in this acclaimed adaptation.
Nobunaga Shimazaki
Izumi Shinichi (voice)
Nobunaga Shimazaki delivers a noteworthy performance as Shinichi Izumi in 'Parasyte -the maxim-'. His voice acting masterfully captures Shinichi's transformation from a timid high school student to a resilient young man determined to protect humanity from the parasitic invaders. Shimazaki's nuanced portrayal beautifully encapsulates the complex emotions that Shinichi experiences, from fear and resolve to despair and hope. The depth of his performance adds a layer of authenticity to the character, making Shinichi eminently relatable and the audience fully invested in his tumultuous journey.
Crew of Parasyte -the maxim-
Full backstage crew list →