Jason Douglas, the voice actor known for his roles in Dragon Ball Super and Attack on Titan, recently shared insights into his acting career and experiences with anime. In an interview at Detroit’s Youmacon convention, Douglas discussed his background in acting, how he became involved in the anime industry, and his approach to playing iconic characters like Beerus and Kishibe.
Douglas revealed that he started his acting journey at the University of Houston School of Theater in the early 90s, where he discovered his love for language and performing. After college, he ventured into theater work in Houston and eventually found himself working with ADV Films on anime projects. He noted that the anime industry was growing rapidly in the early 2000s, with a burgeoning fanbase that was expanding beyond niche circles.
When asked about his role as Beerus in Dragon Ball Super, Douglas expressed his initial surprise at the character’s popularity and the impact of the franchise on his career. He credited Chris Sabat for casting him in the role of Beerus and highlighted the collaborative process of bringing the character to life in the studio. Douglas shared his interpretation of Beerus as an ancient and powerful being with a penchant for new challenges and experiences.
Discussing his involvement in Attack on Titan, Douglas explained the casting process for anime roles and his approach to choosing projects based on the characters and stories that resonate with him. He emphasized his love for storytelling and the opportunity to explore different genres and character archetypes, such as the hardboiled detective type in Chainsaw Man.
In addition to his work in anime, Douglas mentioned his recent foray into voicing audiobooks, citing his collaboration with author Ari Loeb on the book “The Stunted Man” as a rewarding experience. The book, which delves into the world of an aging stuntman seeking redemption, allowed Douglas to showcase his vocal talents in a different medium.
As a voice actor, Douglas highlighted the importance of connecting with fans through social media and conventions, where he can interact with audiences and receive feedback on his performances. He expressed gratitude for the support of fans and the opportunity to engage with the community that appreciates his work.
Overall, Jason Douglas’s interview provided a glimpse into the multifaceted world of voice acting and the creative process behind bringing animated characters to life. His passion for storytelling and dedication to his craft underscored the depth of his contributions to the anime industry and beyond.