Bleach’s Ryōtarō Okiayu confirmed as part of the star-studded lineup
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, February 23, 2026: Middle East Film & Comic Con (MEFCC) has announced its first Japanese voice actor guest: Ryōtarō Okiayu, best known as Byakuya Kuchiki in Bleach. From 24 – 26 April 2026, the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre will transform into an anime paradise replete with legendary seiyū and exciting experiences within the Otaku District.
With a career spanning decades, Okiayu is one of the most celebrated and versatile voice actors in the anime and gaming industry. His extensive credits include Hisashi Mitsui in Slam Dunk, Tezuka Kunimitsu in The Prince of Tennis, Kokushibō in Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, Scar in Fullmetal Alchemist, Toriko in Toriko, and Subaru Okiya in Detective Conan. In gaming, he is recognised for voicing Terra in Kingdom Hearts, Zero in Mega Man X, and Lee Chaolan in Tekken. He has also portrayed Kizaru and Kaku in One Piece.
Okiayu’s appearance marks a significant milestone for MEFCC as it continues expanding its international guest lineup and strengthening its connection to global anime fandom. He will be joining Christopher Judge and Simu Liu who were unveiled earlier this year.
During the region’s largest pop culture festival, Okiayu will participate in on-stage panels, live Q&A sessions, and autograph signings, offering fans a rare opportunity to meet the voice behind some of anime and gaming’s most iconic characters.
Tickets start from AED 160. Fans should visit www.mefcc.com for further information.
