JoJo’s Voice Actress Takes Break to prioritize Mental Health
Fairouz Ai, the acclaimed voice actress behind Jolyne Cujoh in the popular anime series JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Stone Ocean, announced on December 31, 2024, that she will be scaling back her professional commitments. The announcement follows a recent diagnosis of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
The news was initially shared by Ai’s talent agency, Raccoon Dog, followed by a personal message from the actress herself on X/Twitter. Both statements emphasized the importance of prioritizing her recovery and expressed sincere apologies for any inconvenience caused.
Raccoon Dog’s Official Statement
“We would like to express our sincere gratitude for your continued support. At this time, we must inform you that our talent, Fairouz Ai, has been diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). under the guidance of her attending physician, we have resolute that prioritizing her recovery is essential, and thus, some of her activities will be limited. To all involved parties and fans, we deeply apologize for the great concern and inconvenience this may cause.We kindly ask for your understanding.”
Fairouz Ai’s Personal Message
“To everyone who always supports me, As mentioned on my agency’s website, I was diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) a few months ago. Wanting to meet the expectations and feelings of support I’ve received, I have worked hard over the past few months. Though, I have determined that focusing on treatment and recovering both physically and mentally as soon as possible is the best course of action. With the support of my agency and those around me, I will be limiting some of my activities temporarily. As the cause of my condition is a private matter,I kindly ask that you refrain from prying or speculating about it. To the amazing production teams who create the works and characters I love so much, and to all the fans who always send me warm words: I feel deeply sorry and full of regret for causing concern and inconvenience. I will do my best to recover physically and mentally so that I can stand before you all again in good health. I would be delighted if you could continue to cherish the characters and works.December 31, 2024
Fairouz Ai”
The impact of Ai’s decision is already being felt. For example, her role as Friday MC on the ABEMA voice actor variety show, Say You to Yo Asobi, has been temporarily reassigned to Nobuhiko Okamoto, another prominent voice actor.
This news underscores the importance of prioritizing mental health, a message resonating deeply within the entertainment industry and beyond. Fans and colleagues alike are expressing their support for Ai’s decision and wishing her a speedy recovery.
Popular Voice Actress Fairouz Ai Announces Hiatus Due to PTSD
fairouz Ai, the acclaimed Japanese voice actress behind iconic characters like Power in Chainsaw Man and Jolyne Cujoh in JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Stone Ocean, has announced a temporary hiatus from her hosting duties on the popular Japanese television programme, Yoasobi. The announcement, made via the show’s official X account, cited a need for a break due to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The official X account stated, “Regarding Fairouz ai, starting with the January broadcasts, she will be taking a hiatus from appearing on the program.Nobuhiko Okamoto will serve as her substitute MC.” Nobuhiko Okamoto, known for his role as Ghiaccio in jojo’s Bizarre Adventure: golden wind, will fill in for Ai during her absence, joining Tomokazu Seki, the voice of Enrico pucci, as co-host.
PTSD, a mental health condition triggered by intensely stressful or traumatic events, affects an estimated 1.3% of Japan’s population, according to the Ministry of health, Labor and Welfare. While many individuals recover naturally within three months, some require longer-term support. Ai’s decision to prioritize her mental well-being underscores the importance of addressing mental health challenges within the demanding entertainment industry.
Beyond her roles as Jolyne and Power, Ai’s extensive voice acting credits include Delta in The Eminence in Shadow, Panzy in Dragon Ball DAIMA, Hibiki Sakura in How Heavy Are the Dumbbells You Lift?, and Manatsu Natsuumi in Tropical-Rouge! Pretty Cure. Her talent and dedication have garnered her a large and devoted following both in Japan and internationally.
This news highlights the growing awareness and discussion surrounding mental health, particularly within the high-pressure world of entertainment. Ai’s valiant decision to prioritize her well-being serves as a powerful example for others facing similar challenges. Fans are expressing their overwhelming support and wishing her a speedy recovery.
Sources: Raccoon Dog, Fairouz Ai’s X account, @yoasobi_ABEMA, Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare
