Ryo Yoshizawa

Ryo Yoshizawa (吉沢亮, Yoshizawa Ryō, born February 1, 1994) is a Japanese actor. His breakthrough roles include Okita Sogo in the Gintama live-action films, King Eisei/Hyou in Kingdom and Sano Manjiro in the Tokyo Revengers (film). He is known for his expressive eyes and natural acting style. He is also known for his roles in tokusatsu, including his role as Ryusei Sakuta/Kamen Rider Meteor in Kamen Rider Fourze.

Early life

Yoshizawa was born on February 1, 1994, in Tokyo, Japan. His family consists of his mother, father, an older brother, and two younger brothers. Yoshizawa is skilled in second dan in kendo, which he has been practicing for over nine years.

Career

In the beginning of 2011, Yoshizawa made his debut in Sign with other amuse actors like Dori Sakurada and Takuya Uehara. In the second half of that year, he starred in Kingyo Club. He went on to portray Ryūsei Sakuta in Kamen Rider Fourze, making his debut in the seventeenth episode. Yoshizawa was interviewed on his role by Uchūsen, the interview being featured in the 135th issue. Yoshizawa revealed his inspiration behind his character's split personality and his first experience in ADR recording. Yoshizawa compared his character to that of Light Yagami from Death Note. He also watched Bruce Lee films as a reference, as his character frequently performed the trademark kiai of "Howatchā" (ホワッチャーッ) when firing punches or kicks.

In 2017, he portrayed the role of Shinsengumi 1st Division Captain Okita Sogo in the 2017 live-action film of the popular manga series Gintama, and reprised the role in the sequel, Gintama 2, in 2018.

Yoshizawa was questioned by the police after an incident on December 30, 2024, where he had drunkenly entered a neighbor's apartment without permission to use their restroom. As a result, Asahi Beer dropped their endorsement deal with him and Shochiku delayed Baban Baban Ban Vampire indefinetly. On the other hand, Iris Ohyama announced that it would continue its contract with him, earning praise online.