Anime Las Vegas 2026 had many awesome events over the weekend! But nothing drew in more people than the Kingdom Hearts cast panel! Fans of the series swarmed the main stage just to witness this spectacle of a panel! Cast members in attendance included:
- David Gallagher (Riku)
- Jesse McCartney (Ventus and Roxas)
- Bret Iwan (Mickey Mouse)
- Bill Farmer (Goofy)
- Quinton Flynn (Lea/Axel)
- Kirk Thorton (Isa/Saix)
- Paul St. Peter (Xemnas)
- Richard Epcar (Ansem)
- George Newbern (Sephiroth)
The Experience and Impact
The cast was first asked what the experience of voicing in the series has been like, and if they knew it would get this popular. David Gallagher, who has voiced Riku since the very first game, said voicing in a game was a check on his bucket list and was extremely excited. But he did not anticipate how well-known and loved the franchise would become.
Jesse McCartney added that voicing both Roxas and Ventus has been a whirlwind journey, especially with a story like both characters that is one of the most relatable. Jesse piled onto that previous statement, saying that everyone is always trying to find where they belong and loves the impact his characters’ story has on its fans.
Bill Farmer talked about how much of a different experience it is dubbing the character of Goofy, compared to the process he was used to. He said it was strange hearing the Japanese voice for his character and trying to match the lip flaps for it, but it was a fun experience, stating this, and A Goofy Movie are his favorite times where he has gotten to voice Goofy.
Cast’s Favorite Character Moments
The cast was then asked if there were any shining moments for their characters that they loved. Quinton Flynn answered that it was whenever Roxas, Axel, and Xion were sitting on the clock tower in Twilight Town. He said that those scenes were always so moving and really showcased how deep the bond between those characters was, whether it be a small scene or an important scene.
Paul St. Peter said he loved it when Xemnas was giving his speech about why hearts are nothing but pain, saying that it shows Xemnas’s motivation, no matter how sinister they may be. George Newbern joked, asking fans why they never told him how difficult Sephiroth was, but loves being considered one of the hardest bosses in the games.
The Effect
They were then asked if any of them were aware of the effect the franchise has had on not just the fans, but video games as a whole. The whole cast basically shared the same sentiment voiced by Quinton Flynn and Paul St. Peter.
Both agreed Kingdom Hearts wouldn’t be as well-loved and popular if it were for the fans showing their constant love, passion, and dedication to the games. It’s the reason why they can continue being a part of the franchise that cast, crew, and fans love so much.
Overall Experience
The Kingdom Hearts panel was an absolute blast, especially as a long-time fan of the games. Seeing most of the cast altogether was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It was absolutely one of, if not the main highlight of Anime Las Vegas 2026 as a whole! Fans truly enjoyed themselves, and fingers crossed, we get more moments like this!
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