Spy x Family is based on the popular manga series created by Tatsuya Endo. The series illustrates a spy called Twilight who builds a pseudo-family that needs to be a part of his undercover mission. The family includes Loid Forger codename Twilight, Yor Forger a skilled assassin as his wife, Anya Forger a telepath as his daughter, and a dog who can see glimpses of the future named Bond. This action comedy series revolves around the Forger family who try to infiltrate and investigate the vicious leader Donovan Desmond.
From the talented cast Saori Hayami, the voice behind the skilled assassin and a devoted wife Yor Forger, offers a quick look into her journey from reading the manga first time to the voice of the most fascinating character of the series. Her thoughts do not simply elucidate the appeal of Spy x Family but also illuminate the process of bringing manga characters to life through the animated version.
Saori Hayami’s Unforgettable Introduction of Spy x Family
In an interview with Animate Times via Edomonogatari, Saori Hayami, the voice actor for Yor Forger in the series disclosed her first impression of the manga. During her preparation for the audition, she encounters the Spy x Family manga. She praised how manga is well-rounded and balanced with both comedy and seriousness that make viewers engaged to it.
She admitted:
The first time I read it was in preparation for my audition, but I got so absorbed in the story that I forgot I was reading it for work.
The fascinating nature of the character and the story left a strong impression on Saori Hayami. Interestingly she had found herself frequently eager to continue reading, as the manga keeps the reader curious about what the next story will be about. Thus the addictive quality of the manga into a “binge in one go” experience for her.
Hayami’s eagerness for the source material proposes a deep appreciation for the anime’s backbone. Her experience mirrors that of many readers who have found themselves unexpectedly drawn into the world of Spy x Family.
Bringing Yor Forger’s Character to life
By profession, Yor Forger is a skilled assassin and also a figure of genuine sincerity and a hard-working wife when she returns to the house. The voice actor Hayami knowing Yor’s backstory made her see the character in a new light. She highlighted Yor’s unique traits, stating:
Although she’s involved in the seedy business of assassination, once I learned her backstory, I saw her in a new light—as someone who’s exceptionally pure, blunt, and charming.
Hayami was delighted by one of Yor’s specific qualities, her honesty which set her apart from other characters in the series, who hide their true thoughts and feelings. Even though Yor has an unconventional career as a contract killer, she tries to maintain an openness while associating with other characters. Her straightforward nature and openness have been portrayed with special attention in the anime adaptation.
As the Spy x Family anime continues with the production of the third season, Saori Hayami’s representation brings depth and authenticity to the popular character of Yor Forger in the anime adaptation. Her understanding of Yor’s complex character brings true performance in this much-anticipated adaptation.
You can watch Spy x Family on Crunchyroll and read on Viz.
