Voice actress Ayane Sakura, who plays Hikaru Shidou in the new Magic Knight Rayearth anime, has shared details about her audition and the process of developing her version of the beloved character. In an interview with ORICON NEWS, Sakura revealed that she performed one audition scene around five times while working with the director and sound director.
Rather than simply recreating the performance from the original 1994–1995 television anime, Sakura chose to develop her own interpretation of Hikaru. She explained how the original manga by CLAMP became her primary reference and discussed her respect for Hekiru Shiina, who voiced Hikaru in the earlier adaptation.
Ayane Sakura Took a Different Approach to Hikaru
During the audition process, performers were given the option of considering the original Magic Knight Rayearth anime when preparing their performances. Sakura interpreted this as a sign that the production team was open to exploring different ways of portraying the characters.
Although she was familiar with the earlier series, Sakura did not want to focus exclusively on matching its established performances. She explained that people often recognise her voice for its distinctive qualities and felt that simply imitating the previous version could limit her interpretation.
Sakura continues to associate Hekiru Shiina’s performance with the Hikaru she remembers from the original anime. Nevertheless, she decided to approach the new role directly, using her own voice and understanding of the character rather than attempting to reproduce the earlier portrayal.
One Audition Scene Required Around Five Attempts
To prepare for her audition, Sakura selected scenes from the original manga and put together reference materials featuring the corresponding artwork. This allowed her to study Hikaru’s expressions and movements while performing the dialogue.
One particular scene proved more challenging than expected. Sakura explained that voice auditions generally involve only one or two additional attempts when directors provide feedback. In this case, however, she performed the scene approximately five times.
The director and sound director helped her identify aspects of the performance that were not quite working. Sakura eventually asked whether she should move beyond simply following Hikaru’s expression in the manga and imagine a wider emotional expression for the scene.
After she tried that approach, the staff accepted her performance, and she subsequently passed the audition.
Sakura said the experience encouraged her because it showed that the production team was also willing to explore new possibilities rather than remain limited by what audiences already knew.
Sakura Wants the New and Original Anime Versions to Coexist
Developing the right balance between familiarity and originality was one of Sakura’s biggest challenges when preparing for the role.
She felt that being allowed to consider the earlier anime—or approach the character without relying on it—gave her the freedom to acknowledge the Hikaru already present in her memories while building a fresh interpretation.
Sakura also recognised that some longtime fans might feel uncertain about a new adaptation, particularly when familiar characters are given different voices. She said she understood why viewers who care deeply about the original series might approach the reboot with hesitation.
Her hope is that even those who begin watching cautiously will finish the first episode feeling that the new series deserves another look.
Rather than abandoning the earlier interpretation, Sakura aimed to carry that version of Hikaru with her while allowing a new portrayal to develop alongside it.
The Original Manga Remained Sakura’s Main Reference
When asked what helped her most in developing Hikaru, Sakura pointed to CLAMP’s original manga.
She noted that the manga and the earlier television anime were originally being developed around the same period. This helped her view the manga as an independent source of inspiration rather than interpreting everything through the earlier animated adaptation.
Returning to the original work gave Sakura confidence that another version of Magic Knight Rayearth could be created without simply repeating what had come before. She also revealed that she kept the manga close by while recording the new anime.
Sakura emphasised that the new adaptation is not intended to replace or erase the 1994–1995 series. Instead, she hopes it will stand alongside the earlier version, which continues to hold a special place among fans.
She also praised the ideas, dialogue, beautiful scenery and magical sequences created by CLAMP, noting that the work’s creative qualities continue to resonate. Sakura hopes the new series will be welcomed by both longtime followers and audiences discovering the story for the first time.
About the New Magic Knight Rayearth Anime
The upcoming television anime adapts CLAMP’s fantasy manga, which was published in Kodansha’s Nakayoshi magazine from 1993 to 1996.
The story follows three second-year middle school students—Hikaru Shidou, Umi Ryuuzaki and Fuu Hououji—who are transported from Tokyo Tower to the magical world of Cephiro by Princess Emeraude. The girls embark on an adventure as the legendary Magic Knights to rescue the princess, who has been imprisoned.
The new adaptation commemorates approximately 30 years since the original television anime began airing in 1994. It marks the first new anime adaptation since the 1997 original video animation (OVA).
The series is scheduled to run for two consecutive cours.
Magic Knight Rayearth: Frequently Asked Questions
Who voices Hikaru Shidou in the new anime?
Ayane Sakura has been cast as Hikaru Shidou.
How many times did Sakura perform the audition scene?
She said she attempted one scene around five times while working with the director and sound director.
Did Sakura try to imitate the original anime’s Hikaru?
No. Although she respects Hekiru Shiina’s portrayal, Sakura chose to develop her own interpretation rather than concentrate solely on recreating the earlier performance.
What was Sakura’s main reference for the role?
She relied primarily on CLAMP’s original Magic Knight Rayearth manga, using its artwork and character expressions to guide her performance.
Is the new anime intended to replace the original series?
No. Sakura explained that the production aims to create a new adaptation that can exist alongside the 1994–1995 anime rather than overwrite it.
Disclaimer: This article is based on Ayane Sakura’s interview with ORICON NEWS and the available information about the new Magic Knight Rayearth anime. Production details, broadcast arrangements and other announcements may be updated. Readers should consult official sources for the latest confirmed information.
