Series & First Appearance
Haruki Nakayama appears in the anime and manga series Given, created by Natsuki Takaya. He first debuts in Chapter 1 of the manga and is prominently featured throughout the series. The anime adaptation premiered in 2020, produced by Lerche.
Profile at a Glance
Haruki Nakayama is a 22-year-old graduate student and a contributing member of the band Given, where he plays bass. His character is known for his thoughtful nature and supports the band dynamic through his music and interpersonal connections.
Personality & Motivations
Haruki is characterized as introspective, reliable, and somewhat reserved. He often takes on the role of the caretaker within his social circle, ensuring that his friends are emotionally supported. A key driving goal for Haruki is to express himself creatively through music while grappling with the emotional aftermath of loss, particularly related to his past relationships. He has a gentle, calming presence, yet displays inner conflict regarding his feelings, especially concerning his bandmates.
Abilities / Powers
As the bassist of Given, Haruki exhibits notable musical talent which he uses to enhance the band’s performances. His playing style is both technically proficient and emotionally resonant, often adding depth to the band’s overall sound. While he lacks any supernatural abilities, his strength lies in his ability to harmonize with others, elevating the group dynamic. His evolution as a musician reflects his personal growth, as he learns to open up emotionally through his music.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Haruki’s character development is especially pronounced in the series’ exploration of grief, love, and the healing power of music. Key arcs include his deepening relationship with fellow band member Akihiko Kagi, as they navigate their complex feelings toward each other amidst personal struggles. Haruki’s willingness to confront his past and support Akihiko showcases his growth, particularly in Episode 7, where he performs a heartfelt song, symbolizing his journey toward acceptance and vulnerability.
Notable Relationships
Haruki’s critical relationships significantly define his narrative arc. His bond with Akihiko Kagi is central; it evolves from friendship into a deeper emotional connection that reflects mutual support and understanding. Haruki is also close to Ritsuka Uenoyama, the band’s lead guitarist, who often serves as a catalyst for Haruki’s introspection. Their camaraderie showcases how friendships enrich their creativity and emotional health.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable scene occurs in Episode 8, where Haruki performs a song that allows him to express his hidden emotions about love and loss. This moment resonates deeply with fans, reflecting the essence of the series: the intertwining of music and personal healing. Haruki’s line, “Music is what connects us,” captures his belief in the transformative power of music, underscoring the series’ theme of emotional expression.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Haruki Nakayama has garnered significant popularity, evidenced by ranking among the top characters in fan polls related to Given, with 1,610 members favoriting him. His voice in the original Japanese version is provided by Masatomo Nakazawa, while he is voiced by Yung-I Chang in the English version. The series received acclaim for its portrayal of LGBTQ+ themes, and Haruki’s character plays a crucial role in representing nuanced emotional journeys.
In summary, Haruki Nakayama is not only an integral part of Given’s narrative but also a substantial character who embodies growth, the complexities of relationships, and the healing power of music. His depth and relatability have made him a fan favorite and a vital element of the story’s emotional core.
