The official website of Japanese voice actors agency Haikyo announced that voice actor Junichi Suwabe will go on a temporary hiatus starting Jan 1, 2024, due to health reasons.

The planned duration of the hiatus is estimated to be around 2 to 3 weeks, during which Suwabe will be stepping back from his ongoing works and programs. While the specific date of Suwabe’s return is yet to be determined, the agency assured fans that updates will be promptly provided.

Due to this, Suwabe will not attend Osaka performances of the “Premier Music Reading Theatre VOICARION XVII – Spoon’s Shield,” which is scheduled to be held on Jan 6 and 7, 2024, where he was originally set to play the role of Maurice de Talleyrand. In his stead, voice actor Koichi Yamadera, known for his portrayal of Spike Spiegel in Cowboy Bebop, will take over the role.

They agency also revealed that Junichi Suwabe is committed to fulfilling his existing professional obligations for the remainder of the year.

Junichi Suwabe also took to his personal blog to announce the hiatus in a heartfelt message to his fans.

According to the voice actor, the reason for the hiatus is to undergo a surgery recommended by his doctor. The surgery is described as a preventive measure, and he reassured fans that there is currently no disruption to his daily activities (including eating, drinking, and exercise). The decision to take a break was made in consideration of eliminating any potential concerns.

He also mentioned that he will attend the Tokyo performance of “Premier Music Reading Theatre VOICARION XVII – Spoon’s Shield,” and Jump Festa 2024 in December as planned.

Checkout his full statement below:

To Everyone,

Starting from January 1, 2024, I will be taking a break for approximately 2 to 3 weeks. At this point, there is no hindrance to my work or daily life (including eating, drinking, and exercise), but I have decided to undergo a surgery that has been recommended by a doctor to address an issue. It is not an ongoing medical condition, but the doctor advised that it would be better to deal with it sooner rather than later.

I have been involved in voice work for almost 30 years now. Far from getting tired of it, the interest has only grown with each passing year. I still want to do my best while actively working! With a strong desire to eliminate any potential concerns, I have come to the conclusion to take this temporary break.

To all those involved and everyone who has supported me, I apologize for any inconvenience or worry this may cause. I sincerely hope for your understanding and support.

Upon my return, I hope to approach my work even more earnestly than before.

Due to the mentioned reasons, I regret to inform you that I will be withdrawing from the scheduled performance of “Premier Music Reading Theatre VOICARION XVII – Spoon’s Shield” in Osaka (evening performance on January 6, and afternoon/evening performances on January 7). To those who have already purchased tickets and were looking forward to it, I truly apologize. I also extend my sincere apologies to the companies and individuals involved in the production. Koichi Yamadera will be taking on all the roles as a substitute, and I am deeply grateful to him, my respected senior, for this.

Furthermore, I will continue to operate as usual until the end of 2023. To those involved in the production of projects scheduled for recording by the end of the year, please rest assured. Additionally, I will participate in the Tokyo performance of “Premier Music Reading Theatre VOICARION XVII – Spoon’s Shield” and Jump Festa 2024 in December as planned!

I will exert all efforts to recover fully after the surgery so that I can return as soon as possible! I would appreciate it if excessive worries or negative speculations are avoided on social media, etc.

Thank you very much for your understanding.

Junichi Suwabe

Junichi Suwabe is a Japanese voice actor from Tokyo. He is affiliated with Haikyō. His popular roles include Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez in Bleach, Victor Nikiforov in Yuri!!! on ICE, Yami Sukehiro in Black Clover, Shota Aizawa in My Hero Academia, Ryomen Sukuna in Jujutsu Kaisen, among others.

Source: Haikyo, Junichi Suwabe’s Blog