In Washington, D.C., one of North America’s largest anime conventions, Otakon, brought together fans from all over the world in a celebration filled with excitement and smiles. Among the special guests was voice actor Shuichiro Umeda, known for his roles in many popular titles. Surrounded by colorful cosplay and an atmosphere brimming with passion, Umeda couldn’t help but remark that the event was “overflowing with love.” In this interview, he shares his impressions of the vibrant Otakon experience—from memorable moments during The Summer Hikaru Died panel, to the striking differences between Japanese and American fans, and a heartfelt message to the overseas audience that continues to support him. Q: How is the atmosphere at Otakon? It’s just overflowing with love. The cosplayers were especially wonderful, and the overall atmosphere of the venue feels so warm and welcoming! Q: At this year’s Otakon, what were you most looking forward to? What I was really excited about was being able to directly see the faces and reactions of overseas fans—people I normally wouldn’t have the chance to meet. Besides that, it’s fun to see people making merchandise for series I like and looking at the cosplayers. Q: Whether at Otakon or other overseas events, was there anything that surprised or impressed you? What really surprised me was how overseas fans walk around the city and convention center in cosplay like it’s the most ordinary thing. Q: You also appeared on stage at AnimeJapan, but did you notice any differences between Japanese and American fans? I really felt it was completely different from Japan.For example, when a popular scene is played at an event in the U.S., the audience gives this huge cheer, like “Whoa!!” In Japan, people tend to watch the same scene quietly, but in the U.S., they laugh, they shout, and they cheer—it’s a very different way of enjoying it. Q: When you participated in The Summer Hikaru Died panel, was there any particular message or fan reaction from overseas that stood out to you? Out of all the possibilities, whenever someone tells me they’re glad that I was the voice of Hikaru, it really leaves an impression on me—and I always feel so grateful. Since The Summer Hikaru Died also had an audio comic before the anime, I think there are fans who already had strong feelings and memories tied to the work. Even so, being chosen to voice Hikaru and then hearing people say, “I’m glad it was you,” makes me really happy. For the anime as well, the fact that people don’t feel “I can’t accept this Hikaru because of the voice” means that my voice isn’t a barrier for them, and in that sense, I’m very glad. Q: Is there a line you’d like to say in English for your overseas fans? I will be back! I want to come to Otakon again! Q: Finally, could you share a message for your overseas fans? I’m truly happy that I was able to see firsthand how The Summer Hikaru Died is loved even across the ocean. Just as some of you may think, “We hardly ever get to meet Japanese voice actors,” for us too, the opportunities to meet overseas fans directly are rare—but knowing you’re out there really gives us strength. When people post their thoughts on X, it really gives me strength and makes me so happy! I’ll keep doing my best so that I can meet everyone again and share more fun experiences together. It would mean a lot if you continue to support me.”