Kenjiro Tsuda, 54, Says “My Turn Keeps Going”: From Extreme Poverty in His Youth to a Breakthrough in His 50s, Grateful for Fans Even in Their 80s

2025 Was a “Tsuda Festival”: “I Gained Fans in Their 80s”

ーーIn 2025, in addition to voice acting, narration, and commercials, you appeared in many dramas and films. Would you say this was one of your busiest years?

Tsuda
It wasn’t just busy, it was fulfilling in a different way. Before the pandemic, most of my work was anime, but recently I’ve had more drama roles, which means more variety in the characters I get to play. Morning dramas, historical dramas, Sunday night series. They’re all incredibly meaningful opportunities as an actor.

When I went to a movie theater and saw multiple projects I appeared in, both animated and live action, playing at the same time, I felt a little embarrassed to say it myself, but it really felt like a “Tsuda Festival.”

ーーYou’ve said that your role in the morning drama Anpan was particularly memorable.

Tsuda
Yes, because I gained fans in their 80s for the first time. That was shocking to me. During filming, staff members told me, “Actually, my mother has become a fan,” and their mothers were in their 80s. I’d never experienced that before.

It made me realize how different the reach of a morning drama is. It truly spans all generations. That’s when I really understood what people mean when they say my face and name are now widely recognized.

“My Turn Really Has Continued”

ーーAbout five years ago, during an interview for the drama Saiai, you were asked whether it was “your turn again” at the age of 50, referencing a Yu Gi Oh line. You answered, “It really is my turn right now.” Looking back, how do you see that period?

Tsuda
I remember that interview. Thankfully, my turn really has continued. Saiai became a hook that introduced me to people in the drama and film industry, which led to more on screen roles. But that wasn’t because of me alone. Saiai itself was an excellent work, and I think I was evaluated because the project was evaluated. It was definitely a turning point in my life.

Looking Ahead: Acting, Voice Work, and Directing

ーーWith such a busy schedule, do you still manage to take time off?

Tsuda
My manager helps me adjust my schedule properly, so I do get rest. At this age, rest is essential. I can’t push myself the way I did when I was younger. In fact, I think I can handle my current workload precisely because of my age and experience.

I’m naturally more of a single task person, someone who focuses deeply on one thing at a time. But voice acting involves more than just recording. There are radio shows, events, and other related work. Over time, I’ve gotten used to multitasking. There’s no way I could have done this amount of work when I was younger.

ーーFinally, are there things you’d like to pursue in the future, beyond 2026?

Tsuda
As an actor, I want to continue both voice work and on screen roles. I want to deepen my understanding of each role and explore different approaches, even within the time limits of recording sessions.

Personally, I have a goal of directing another film, but I haven’t made much progress yet. Still, through my drama work, I’ve met actors and staff I’d love to work with again. If I could make a film and collaborate with them, that would be wonderful. When I think about it, I feel like I’m truly able to work toward my dreams right now. I’m a very fortunate and happy actor.

Source : ORICON NEWS