Sasaki Shuumei
Sasaki Shuumei |
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| Kanji: | 佐々木 秀鳴 |
| Romaji | Sasaki Shūmei |
| Statistics | |
| Age: | Unknown |
| Birthday: | June 17 |
| Height: | 181 cm – 185 cm |
| Portrayed by: | |
| Japanese: | Yusuke Shirai |
| English: | Kellen Goff |
Shuumei Sasaki (佐々木 秀鳴, Sasaki Shūmei), is one of the two eponymous protagonists of the anime and manga series Sasaki and Miyano. A second-year high school student with a reputation for being a delinquent, Sasaki is a complex character who, beneath his rebellious exterior, is gentle, affectionate, and openly devoted to his eventual boyfriend, Yoshikazu Miyano. His journey revolves around his deepening relationship with Miyano, exploring themes of first love, vulnerability, and emotional growth.
Although initially perceived as intimidating, Sasaki’s true nature is revealed through his caring and occasionally clumsy efforts to understand and support Miyano, making him a beloved character known for his earnestness and charm.
Background
Appearance in Anime
Shuumei Sasaki attends an all-boys high school, where he has developed a bad boy image due to his dyed hair, casual demeanor, and occasional confrontations. However, this reputation is more a result of misunderstandings and his straightforward personality rather than actual delinquency.
Sasaki’s life takes a meaningful turn when he meets Yoshikazu Miyano, a first-year student who introduces him to the world of Boys’ Love (BL) manga. Fascinated by both the genre and Miyano himself, Sasaki gradually realizes that his feelings are more than just friendship, setting him on a path of self-discovery and emotional vulnerability. His growing affection for Miyano becomes the centerpiece of his character arc.
Appearance
Sasaki is a tall and slender teenager with a slightly rebellious look. He has reddish-brown hair that is dyed lighter at the tips, often tousled and unkempt. His sharp green eyes and pierced ear contribute to his delinquent reputation.
Despite his outward appearance, Sasaki’s expressions frequently soften around Miyano, showing a side of him that is warm, bashful, and genuine. His casual posture contrasts with the intensity of his emotions, particularly when he’s flustered or embarrassed.
Personality
Sasaki is straightforward, energetic, and impulsive, often acting on his emotions without overthinking. He can be a little reckless, especially when standing up for others or reacting to situations involving Miyano. However, his tough exterior hides a deeply affectionate and sensitive heart.
He is highly expressive with his emotions, unafraid to show his fondness for Miyano, whether through teasing, compliments, or gentle flirtations. Sasaki is also surprisingly considerate and patient, often struggling internally to respect Miyano’s pace and boundaries without pushing too hard.
His inner conflict balancing his strong feelings with his desire to protect Miyano’s comfort adds emotional depth to his character, making him a realistically flawed but deeply lovable protagonist.
Role in the Story
First Encounter and Friendship: Sasaki first meets Miyano when he breaks up a bullying incident, immediately leaving an impression on the shy underclassman. Curious about Miyano’s interest in BL manga, Sasaki starts borrowing volumes and engaging in conversations about the stories, slowly building a bond through their shared love of reading.
Realization of Feelings: As their friendship grows, Sasaki realizes he is falling in love with Miyano. Though initially confused by the intensity of his emotions, he comes to accept his feelings wholeheartedly. His journey involves navigating first love, overcoming insecurities about his own reputation, and respecting Miyano’s hesitations.
Confession and Relationship: After a long period of emotional tension and mutual development, Sasaki confesses his feelings to Miyano. Though Miyano initially struggles to sort out his own emotions, Sasaki remains supportive and patient. Eventually, they become a couple, with Sasaki showing unabashed affection and deep devotion to Miyano.
Relationships
Yoshikazu Miyano: Sasaki’s best friend, love interest, and eventual boyfriend. Their relationship forms the heart of the series. Sasaki’s straightforward affection contrasts beautifully with Miyano’s shy and thoughtful demeanor, creating a dynamic filled with mutual growth, emotional support, and genuine tenderness.
Taiga Hirano: Sasaki’s classmate and friend. Though Hirano often pretends to be exasperated by Sasaki’s behavior, he cares for him deeply and offers quiet support, especially regarding Sasaki’s feelings for Miyano.
Other Friends and Classmates: While not as close to others as he is to Miyano, Sasaki is generally friendly (if a bit intimidating) toward his classmates. His interactions show that he’s not as delinquent as rumors suggest, and he can be reliable and kind when needed.