Adam McArthur is a prominent voice in the English dubbing industry, known for his roles as Yuji Itadori in the popular anime series Jujutsu Kaisen and the ambitious Reno Ichikawa in the recent hit Kaiju No. 8.
McArthur has also lent his voice to a range of characters, including Chifuyu Matsuno in Tokyo Revengers and Jouno Saigiku in Bungo Stray Dogs, showcasing a versatile career across various anime titles.
With the second season of Kaiju No. 8 right around the corner, we got a chance to talk to Adam, who provided insight into how he prepared for Reno’s role in the upcoming season and his perspective on the future of the English voice-acting industry as anime’s global reach continues to expand.
AH: You’ve voiced a variety of anime characters, from Chifuyu Matsuno in Tokyo Revengers to Jouno Saigiku in Bungo Stray Dogs. How do you adapt to such different personalities?
Adam McArthur: Each character kind of demands their own approach. With someone like Chifuyu, I focus on his loyalty and emotional depth. He wears his heart on his sleeve. With Jouno, who’s cold and calculating with a wild edge, I had to dig into his unpredictability and menace. I always try to find the emotional truth of a character, even if they’re totally different from each other. That helps ground them, no matter how extreme they are on the surface.
AH: Do you have any unique techniques that help you get into the character, especially since they are all so varied?
Adam McArthur: I always start by reading the source material, if it’s available, to get a sense of who the character is and where they’re headed. I also listen to the original Japanese performance to catch tone and intention, while still bringing my own interpretation.
AH: Talking about different personalities, you have voiced Reno Ichikawa from Kaiju No. 8. How does voicing Reno compare to your past anime roles?
Adam McArthur: Reno has been a blast to voice. He’s a bit of a departure from my past roles because he starts off more reserved and insecure, but he’s got this underlying fire and ambition. Unlike someone like Yuji [Itadori], who jumps in headfirst, Reno is analytical and has to build confidence. It has been really fun to play that growth. Also, the world of Kaiju No. 8 is so visually intense that it adds a layer of energy that I love tapping into.
AH: We couldn’t help but notice how well you have captured Reno’s initial insecurities in Kaiju No. 8 Season 1. Now, looking ahead to Season 2, how do you see his character arc evolving, especially since he made a vow to become stronger?
Adam McArthur: First off, thank you! Reno’s journey in Season 1 was so fun to explore. In Season 2, things definitely level up for him. He’s not just the wide eyed rookie anymore. He’s starting to find his footing, and really trying to live up to the promise of getting stronger. He’s not just talking the talk. This season, you’ll see him start to walk it… maybe sprint it. There’s some real growth, and we see a more focused, more driven Reno, which makes his relationships with the rest of the defense force even more interesting.
AH: Did you need to adjust your performance in Season 2 to match this new determination and drive that he had?
Adam McArthur: Absolutely. Season 2 Reno doesn’t carry the same kind of hesitation we saw in Season 1. So vocally, I had to bring a more grounded intensity. Less second guessing, more conviction. That doesn’t mean he’s suddenly perfect or done growing, but there’s definitely a shift. He’s starting to believe in himself, which meant I had to lock in and make sure that evolution felt real and earned.
AH: Is there a particular scene from the upcoming season that you were most excited to bring to screen?
Adam McArthur: Yes, but I’m sworn to secrecy by the Anti Kaiju Defense Force… and Shawn Gann, our director. And Crunchyroll (they’re always watching). There’s a ton of action, emotion, and just the right amount of yelling… I’m super excited for everyone to see it.
AH: Since you mentioned Yuji Itadori before, we’d like to know what your process was for bringing his character to life in Jujutsu Kaisen?
Adam McArthur: Bringing Yuji to life has been a huge honor and challenge. He’s such a layered character. He’s goofy and lighthearted one moment, and then deep in existential pain the next. My process started with really understanding his emotional core: his empathy, his loyalty, and that driving need to protect others. Once I connected with that, I could build from there and let his humor, intensity, and vulnerability shine through naturally.
AH: Jujutsu Kaisen is a show that is very emotional and action-packed. So did that give rise to any challenges while voicing Yuji?
Adam McArthur: The emotional moments can be intense. Yuji goes through so much loss and inner turmoil, and I had to really sit with those feelings to make it feel authentic. Action-wise, the physicality of the show is next level. You’re screaming, grunting, gasping. It’s like cardio in a booth. Finding the right energy while keeping the emotion intact was probably the trickiest part.
AH: Oof, that’s a lot of work you put into it!! Do you have a favorite anime scene that you’ve voiced so far, and why?
Adam McArthur: There’s a scene in Jujutsu Kaisen where Yuji breaks down after a major loss, and it just crushed me emotionally. Recording that scene was cathartic. It wasn’t about hitting a certain line delivery; it was about fully feeling it. That kind of raw emotion is rare to get in the booth, and it reminded me why I love what I do.
AH: As anime continues to gain global popularity, how do you see the industry evolving for English voice actors?
Adam McArthur: I think it’s an exciting time. There’s more recognition and appreciation for the artistry behind dubbing. With streaming expanding access, fans are tuning in from all over the world. I see more opportunities for English voice actors to be part of the global conversation, whether that’s attending cons, connecting directly with fans, and even getting involved in earlier stages of production. It’s a big shift from just being behind the mic.
AH: Have you ever improvised or added personal touches to any of your anime roles?
Adam McArthur: Absolutely! When it fits the moment and the director is on board. Sometimes a little chuckle or a unique inflection can make a character feel more alive. There are a few lines in Jujutsu Kaisen and Tokyo Revengers where I added a bit of humor or breath that wasn’t in the script, and they ended up making the final cut. It’s always about serving the character, though, not just tossing stuff in for fun.
AH: What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned working in anime dubbing?
Adam McArthur: That it’s not about you; it’s about the story and the character. Your job is to be in service to that. The better you can listen to the tone, to the director, to the moment, the better your performance will be. Also, hydration…lots and lots of hydration.
AH: If you could voice any anime character from the past or present, who would it be and why?
Adam McArthur: That’s tough. Maybe Vash from Trigun. He’s such a good mix of comedy, heartbreak, and cool. Or Goku just for the legacy of it. But honestly, I’ve been really lucky with the characters I’ve already gotten to voice. Each one has been a dream in its own way.
AH: Do you have any message to fans who are looking ahead to the second season of Kaiju No. 8 and what they can expect?
Adam McArthur: If you thought Season 1 brought the heat, Season 2 turns the dial to eleven. The kaiju get meaner, the stakes get higher, and Reno and the crew are pushed to their limits. Expect new powers, big reveals, and even bigger battles. And to everyone who’s been cheering Reno on, thank you! He’s working hard out there… and so am I.
Kaiju No. 8 Season 2 starts streaming on Crunchyroll from July 19, 2025. The English Dub for the anime will air on the same day along with the Japanese version.
Adam’s Image Credits: Photographer: Matt Kallish, Grooming: Rachel Nicole, Stylist: Sarah Lanflisi
Kaiju No. 8 Still Credits: © JAKDF 3rd Division © Naoya Matsumoto/SHUEISHA