Yakuza Kiwami 3 Faces Backlash Over Akira Kagawa Casting

It's a topic that's certainly generating a lot of discussion.

The reveal of the Japanese voice actor lineup for Yakuza Kiwami 3 highlighted the participation of veteran performer Kagaie Shoko as the primary antagonist, Higashimura Kojiro. While the announcement drew attention for its casting choices, it quickly ignited controversy among parts of the player base. This isn't just about character continuity; it seems to stem from past controversies surrounding the actor himself.

The backlash against Kagaie Shoko's casting is primarily linked to his admission of inappropriate conduct from a few years ago. In 2022, through his agency, Kagaie acknowledged that he had engaged in sexual harassment involving a female companion from a Shinjuku club. The reports suggested the incident left the woman with severe Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). While these allegations were initially surfaced around September 2019, Kagaie only formally acknowledged them in 2022. Evidence, including photos purportedly showing him forcefully pulling a woman's hair, circulated online, further fueling the anger. This wasn't just a past issue being dredged up; it was recent and impactful for many.

Players who follow the Yakuza series closely argue that the franchise has consistently been about exploring the darker corners of life and holding characters accountable for their actions. Scenes depicting exploitation or crime are not anomalies but integral parts of the narrative fabric. Introducing a major, well-known character whose real-world actions align closely with the kind of behavior the series condemns feels like a fundamental contradiction. For these fans, casting Kagaie sends a jarring message that seems to clash with the spirit of the games they've been enjoying for years. It feels like a betrayal of the themes the series has championed.

Adding to the frustration, Sega and the development studio, RGG Studio, have remained conspicuously silent on the matter. Despite the player outcry, the casting decision appears final. This lack of response has only added to the sense of unease and has clearly fueled the online movement demanding his removal from the project.

Looking ahead, the game is still scheduled for a February 2026 release. With that deadline approaching, the likelihood of a last-minute actor change seems slim, despite the growing volume of criticism. The debate continues, leaving many to wonder if the casting choice will stand the test of time or if it will become a significant point of contention upon the game's release. It certainly puts a spotlight on the ethics of casting decisions in the industry.