Warner Bros. Japan has released a new video highlighting the main cast of the upcoming anime adaptation of Hirohiko Araki’s highly anticipated JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure Part 7: Steel Ball Run manga. The character-focused video provides fans with a closer look at the key figures who will embark on the titular cross-country horse race. The anime is slated for a worldwide release on Netflix in 2026.
Main Characters and Their Voice Actors Introduced
The recently released video showcases the central characters of Steel Ball Run, officially announcing their voice cast. This reveal has generated significant excitement among fans eagerly awaiting the anime’s debut.
Johnny Joestar
The series’ protagonist, Johnny Joestar, a former jockey, will be voiced by Shōgo Sakata. Johnny’s journey begins as he seeks to regain the use of his legs and uncovers a mysterious power during the Steel Ball Run race. Sakata is known for his role as Aki in Chainsaw Man.
Gyro Zeppeli
Johnny’s enigmatic mentor and fellow competitor, Gyro Zeppeli, is voiced by Yōhei Azakami. Gyro’s unique “Spin” ability and distinctive personality are central to the early arcs of the story. Azakami has previously voiced Ron in Ron Kamonohashi’s Forbidden Deductions.
Diego Brando
The formidable and ambitious rival, Diego Brando, will be brought to life by Kaito Ishikawa. Diego’s cunning and ruthless nature make him a constant threat throughout the race. Ishikawa is recognized for his roles as Tenya Iida in My Hero Academia and the main character in Bunny Girl Senpai.
Lucy Steel
Rie Takahashi steps into the role of Lucy Steel, the determined and resourceful wife of race organizer Steven Steel. Her involvement in the unfolding mysteries of the Steel Ball Run is crucial to the plot. Takahashi has lent her voice to characters such as Yuzuriha in Hell’s Paradise.
Steven Steel
The visionary organizer of the Steel Ball Run race, Steven Steel, is voiced by veteran actor Kenta Miyake. Miyake’s powerful voice, familiar to JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure fans as Avdol from Stardust Crusaders, is expected to bring gravitas to the character.
The Road to the Anime Adaptation
The announcement of the Steel Ball Run anime, produced by David Production, was made at the JOJODAY STAGE event on April 12, 2025. This marked a significant moment for fans who have long awaited the animated rendition of Part 7, which shifts the JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure narrative to an alternate timeline set in 1890s America. The story centers around a perilous 6,000 km (approximately 3,700 miles) cross-country horseback race from San Diego to New York City, with a grand prize of $50 million USD.
The anime’s staff includes Yasuhiro Kimura and Hideya Takahashi as directors, Yasuko Kobayashi handling series structure, Daisuke Tsumagari as character designer, and Yugo Kanno composing the music. The visual style of the adaptation is expected to evolve from previous parts while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic, drawing comparisons to Stone Ocean characters in some design elements.
With the release of these character highlights, the anticipation for JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure Part 7: Steel Ball Run continues to build as it approaches its 2026 premiere on Netflix.
