In Downtown Riverside, fans gathered for an exciting Chainsaw Man panel featuring the English voice actors of the popular anime series. Since its English debut in 2022, the anime has won over hearts worldwide. On a sunny Sunday afternoon, attendees listened to Ryan Colt Levy (Denji), Sarah Wiedenheft (Power), and Jason Marnocha (Katana Man) share their experiences. shared their experiences and insights into voicing their characters in the world of Chainsaw Man.
The panel discussed the VA’s favorite and most challenging moments working on Chainsaw Man. From the intense action scenes to the emotional depth of their characters, the VAs discussed what it takes to bring the iconic roles of Power, Denji, and Katana Man to life. The panelists also shared their unique challenges in the voice-acting world. Fans were treated to some behind-the-scenes stories and insights, adding another layer to their appreciation of the series.
From Depression to Denji
Ryan Colt Levy shared how he discovered Chainsaw Man during the pandemic, at a low point where even watching movies felt impossible. Reading the manga, he said, “All of the noise and anxiety left my brain,” describing it as life-saving. A year later, he auditioned for Denji from his small studio apartment, where he had to unplug the refrigerator just to create a quiet space to record. When director Mike McFarland called to offer him the role, he didn’t even realize what was happening until he heard: “You’re our Denji.”
Powerful Firsts and Improv Fails
Sarah Wiedenheft recalled finding out she’d been cast as Power in a closet-sized room, keeping cool until she got to the elevator, where she had the freedom to scream and jump in excitement. The cast was asked if any lines were improvised; most stuck close to the script, but a few moments of improvisation snuck in, like Power’s maniacal laughter mid-battle. Jason Marnocha joked about how his curse is flubbing a line with a nonsense outburst, only for it to fit the timing perfectly. Sadly, the “Would you kiss this man for a million dollars?” that Sarah Wiedenheft tried to sneak in didn’t make the final cut.
Screams, Fandom, and the Future
Denji’s infamous eight-second “DIE!” scream nearly knocked out Ryan Levy Colt. The VAs mentioned that one of the challenges with voice acting, not just with creating Chainsaw Man, is the scheduling conflicts and any re-recording that needs to happen. However, they felt that the audiences and viewership kept them grounded: “You all come with us into the booth.” They teased the upcoming movie arc as “next level,” with some of the most meaningful lines yet.
Fan Art in Real Time
In true Chainsaw Man fashion, even the fan gifts were chaotic. Mid-panel, a cosplayer handed the cast a stack of hand-drawn sketches they’d whipped up on the spot. One of the drawings depicted Power screaming, “Make me food, slave!” and Denji holding a frying pan like it was the key to survival. The cast couldn’t believe the speed and accuracy of how fast the fan drew the art and enthusiastically said, “You just did this? Right now?” Another joked, “You work faster than the animators!” It was one of those moments where the barrier between fan and creator completely disappeared—and everyone was vibing in the same unhinged universe together.
Overall
Overall, the panel had fans laughing through all the chaos, but the moments of genuine human connection made it truly special. From sharing their early career struggles to the challenges they still face today, the cast offered raw honesty and heart. It was also refreshing to see how they thoughtfully answered every fan question, giving each one the time and depth it deserved.
Don’t miss your chance to hopefully see them at a panel at Anime Riverside, with the next one being from May 30th- May 31st 2026.
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