Nao Toyama launches new project ‘KICKOFF！’ as she marks 15 years with iconic roles from Mizuki Kawashima to Kanon Nakagawa
On 11 March, a mysterious countdown site suddenly appeared on Nao Toyama's official website. Fans were left buzzing for days, wondering, "What's going to happen?" – and now, the veil has finally been lifted. The new project is titled ‘KICKOFF！’.
Evoking the image of a football kick-off, the title undoubtedly signals a "fresh start" for the star. Now 15 years since her debut – having made her mark as both a voice actress and artist – just what sort of ball is she going to launch this spring? At this pivotal moment, it's the perfect time to look back at her career and undeniable charm through the unforgettable characters she has brought to life.
A one-of-a-kind voice that brings diverse roles to life
Ask any fan which character first comes to mind when they hear the name Nao Toyama, and you'll likely get a different answer every time. That's just how versatile her voice is. The roles she has played in long-cherished series, in particular, hold a special place in the hearts of her followers.
- Mizuki Kawashima (The iDOLM@STER Cinderella Girls) – The sophisticated "adult" idol of the group. Toyama's calm, lower register perfectly captures Mizuki's allure and intelligence. When she sings, it's as if the character herself has stepped into the spotlight.
- Kanon Nakagawa (The World God Only Knows) – One of her early signature roles, this was the part that truly showcased her vocal talents as an idol character. Toyama embodied Kanon's delicate charm and earnest passion for singing with crystalline high notes.
- Alisa Takamizawa (Kin-iro Mosaic) – A straight-talking girl from England. Her line delivery, peppered with native English, is a brilliant hybrid performance that makes the most of Toyama's own background as a returnee.
- Shiori Terashima (NEKOPARA series) – The shy youngest daughter of the Minazuki family. From her gentle, soft-spoken manner to the innocent tone she uses when clinging to her older sisters, Toyama brings out a wonderfully realistic little-sister dynamic.
Looking at this line-up, it's clear just how broad her range truly is. From mature women to teenage girls and even foreign characters, she shifts between roles with seamless conviction. And what unites every single performance is the sheer believability – you truly feel she's living the character's life.
Blending artistry with voice acting
Of course, Toyama has also built a solid reputation as an artist in her own right. She has released numerous singles and albums over the years, with many tracks featuring lyrics penned by herself. Her live performances, in particular, never fail to impress with the way she effortlessly switches gears – whether she's singing as a beloved character or performing her own material.
The details of what this new ‘KICKOFF！’ project actually entails are still under wraps. A new single? Perhaps the announcement of a major tour? Or could it be... the arrival of a brand-new character? Whatever the case, the ball kicked off on 11 March 2026 is now undoubtedly rolling towards her next stage.
Fifteen years of experience, distilled into a voice and expressive power like no other. I can't wait to see what goal she scores next. While we keep a close eye on how ‘KICKOFF！’ unfolds, it might also be worth revisiting the timeless performances of her iconic characters.