The anime series Dan Da Dan, celebrated for its quirky blend of teenage struggles, supernatural abilities, and unlikely friendships, brought its high-energy atmosphere to Anime NYC during the English dub panel. Voice actors AJ Beckles (Okarun), Abby Trott (Momo), and Lisa Reimold (Aira) entertained attendees with interactive games, including a playful “What’s In the Box” challenge, live script readings, and other engaging activities.
At its heart, the show follows two teens gifted with supernatural powers who face off against mythical creatures and extraterrestrial beings alongside a diverse group of companions.
However, beyond its visually striking and over-the-top style, Dan Da Dan bravely tackles complex themes, addressing topics such as depression, the impact of childhood trauma, and even instances of assault.
Following their panel, the voice cast discussed the upcoming developments in the second half of season 2 with Polygon, with a special focus on Bryce Pappenbrook joining the cast as the character Kinta Sakata. They also reflected on what gives the series its significant emotional resonance.
“Fundamentally, Dan Da Dan explores the challenging experience of growing up,” shared Beckles. “It revolves around individuals who often feel misunderstood. Momo is remarkable but unconventional. Okarun isn’t necessarily popular, but there’s nothing inherently wrong with him; he’s simply misunderstood. Jiji might appear like a typical athlete but defies that stereotype, and Aira is still in the process of discovering her identity.”
The series also beautifully captures the awkward yet pivotal moments of adolescence: navigating first crushes, embracing one’s unique qualities, and striving to find one’s place in the world.
“The series delves into profound themes of agency and its implications within society,” Beckles explained. “Yet, at its core, it remains a story about young people, which is why it deeply resonates with so many viewers.”
Anime NYC was a milestone for Lisa Reimold, marking her debut as a convention guest and her first-ever panel appearance. The voice actress admitted to feeling “very scared” initially, but she ultimately shone, particularly with her impersonation of Barbara Goodson’s Turbo Granny.
“It’s comforting to know that everyone attending is there to enjoy themselves,” she stated. “This atmosphere makes it much easier, as everyone is eager to feed off each other’s enthusiasm.”
It seems fitting that the English dub cast are experiencing their own unique challenges in growing together, much like the characters they voice, as they get to know each other and form close connections. Beckles, Le, and Trott already have an established relationship from prior collaborations, and now they are accompanied by Reimold and the renowned voice actor Bryce Pappenbrook, famous for voicing Eren Yeager in Attack on Titan.
“I’ve collaborated with Bryce on the anime Demon Slayer for an extended period,” explained Trott, who lends her voice to Nezuko Kamado. “I especially enjoy watching him interact with fans at conventions – he is truly exceptional.” She also shared that Pappenbrook held immense respect for Dan Da Dan’s director, Alex von David, acknowledging him as influential in shaping his career. “When I mentioned that Alex was our director, he responded with, ‘Alex von David changed my life. It’s because of the dedication he invests and his distinctive approach to directing.”
Beckles echoed this praise, commending von David for guiding his voice acting and elevating his professional path.
“I received a nomination for Best Performance at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards, an achievement I believe would not have been possible without him,” the voice actor behind Okarun stated. “I genuinely believe that his direction significantly enhanced my performance, with much of it attributed to his guidance. And adding Bryce, a legend in his own right, and such a kind individual, to the cast is amazing.”
Pappenbrook joins Dan Da Dan in its second season as Kinta Sakata, a mecha enthusiast and sci-fi aficionado, who makes a memorable entrance in his debut trailer, teaming up with the main characters to evade a colossal monster wreaking havoc across the city. Producer Hiroshi Kamei and the cast deemed it a highlight of the season’s latter half, but Trott summarized it best:
“If you’ve read the manga, you’ll recognize it as one of those scenes where you question how it will be animated. And then, witnessing it, you’re just blown away because they nailed it.”
Dan Da Dan can be streamed on Crunchyroll, Hulu, and Netflix, with new episodes available every Thursday.