Black Clover Interview: Ayataka Tanemura (Director) and Gakuto Kajiwara (Asta)

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By anindya

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Black Clover has traversed a notable distance, evolving from a series centered on a loud wizard into one of the most fierce shonen titles available. The forthcoming second season of Black Clover was unveiled during Crunchyroll’s Anime Expo panel earlier this year (2025), slated to debut in October. The manga, which adapts Yuki Tabata’s work of the same title, depicts siblings Asta and Yuno in a realm where magic defines everything. Yuno possesses extraordinary magical talent, whereas Asta lacks any. When both reach the age of fifteen, Asta is granted an anti‑magic grimoire, enabling him to counter and repel spells without casting them. The siblings strive together toward the common ambition of ascension to wizard king.

At the Anime Expo, we were granted a chance to interview two key figures behind the series’ triumph: Ayataka Tanemura, the director of Black Clover, and Gakuto Kajiwara, who provides Asta’s Japanese voice. We explored how their diverse professional backgrounds shape their contributions to the show and what elements they infuse into Black Clover to elevate its quality.

Segments of this conversation have been modestly refined for better comprehension. The interview was carried out with the help of an interpreter.

Q: A half‑decade has passed since the last Black Clover content appeared. What’s it like to be involved in the series’ comeback for this fresh season?

Kajiwara-san: As you noted, fans haven’t encountered Asta for quite some time. I believe there’s significant anticipation among both the audience and the production team to witness his development and maturation. For me personally, I aim to vividly illustrate his growth throughout this season.

Tanemura-san: Absolutely, five years have elapsed since then. We managed to lock in a robust timetable and secure the financing needed for this new season. Our goal is for viewers to experience an invigorated Black Clover. The premier of Episode 1 was especially thrilling. From a production standpoint, I’m committed to continually delivering a high‑quality show that ensures each broadcast episode delights fans.

©YUKI TABATA/SHUEISHA,TV TOKYO,BLACK CLOVER PROJECT

Q: Tanemura-san, prior to assuming the directorial role, you contributed to the series in several other roles. Did those prior experiences shape your directorial style? Do you still engage in those former tasks?

Tanemura-san: Absolutely. Having studied the work of the previous director, Yoshihara-san [Tatsuya Yoshihara], I aim to infuse this season with my own directorial approach, crafting a compelling narrative for the audience. For me, it’s about continual learning, self‑challenge, and embracing fresh obstacles.

Q: Kajiwara-san, you first landed the Asta role at the dawn of your career. How has your perspective on delivering the character’s voice evolved as you’ve progressed in your career?

Kajiwara-san: Indeed, I first landed the Asta role at the onset of my career. Back then I was inexperienced and tended to improvise. Over a decade of voice acting later, my tenure with the Black Clover franchise mirrors that timeline. This season, Asta’s portrayal will explore not only his robust qualities but also his vulnerabilities, highlighting significant character development. My aspiration is to convey these nuances through my performance, capturing his emotional depth.

©YUKI TABATA/SHUEISHA,TV TOKYO,BLACK CLOVER PROJECT

Q: Tanemura-san, you introduced various shifts in the series’ direction since taking the helm. As you look ahead to the upcoming season, which new elements or creative experiments are you planning to emphasize?

Tanemura-san: My attention spans multiple facets rather than a single point. For instance, we’ll be highlighting the magic system, introducing fresh concepts for the action sequences, and polishing them to make the visuals more dynamic and impactful compared to the previous season. These are the primary areas I’m concentrating on.

Q: Kajiwara-san, are there other voice actors whose performances have particularly inspired you or aided your portrayal?

Kajiwara-san: Yes, Liebe. He’s the inner demon of Asta. Their relationship often involves mutual influence: sometimes Liebe guides Asta, and other times Asta influences Liebe, with moments where they converge. The voice actor for Liebe, Okamoto-san [Nobuhiko Okamoto], has deeply impressed me with his dedication to the role, and I’ve learned a great deal from him as a person.

©YUKI TABATA/SHUEISHA,TV TOKYO,BLACK CLOVER PROJECT

Q: Which aspect of your role demands the most of your attention? Put another way, what matters most to you?

Kajiwara-san: Regarding Black Clover, I portray Asta, a principal figure in the story. My primary wish is for the series to continue its run. I also place great value on collaborating extensively with my fellow voice actors and extending our partnership. Rather than simply occupying the spotlight, I envision our teamwork—like interlocked hands—driving the project forward. This collaborative spirit is central to my approach and what I consider essential.

Tanemura-san: In my view, Black Clover benefits from strong source material in the form of the manga. As an anime director, my goal is to produce a series that is engaging and captivating for viewers. To achieve this, I constantly consider which action sequences to include and how to shape the pacing of the show—elements that are fundamental to the directing process.

©YUKI TABATA/SHUEISHA,TV TOKYO,BLACK CLOVER PROJECT

Q: Many fans appreciate Black Clover for its dynamic action and memorable battles. Which other facets of the series would you like viewers to focus on more?

Kajiwara-san: Regarding Asta, this season will introduce significantly tougher foes that he cannot vanquish single‑handed. It’s worth noting how he rallies his allies and teammates to overcome these challenges. The key is his collaborative approach—he consistently brings his friends together, a pattern that repeats across every confrontation. This teamwork is something audiences should reflect on.

Tanemura-san: In this upcoming narrative stretch, certain characters will be removed from the storyline, which is a central motif of the series. This development will deepen the connections and relationships among the remaining characters, particularly within their respective groups. I encourage fans to pay close attention to these relational dynamics.


We extend our gratitude to Ayataka Tanemura and Gakuto Kajiwara for their valuable time discussing Black Clover Season 2, and we thank Crunchyroll for arranging the interviews. The series is currently available for streaming on Crunchyroll.

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