Series & First Appearance
Hideri Kanzaki is a character from the anime Blend S, which was created by Akiyama Koyuki and produced by Drive. He made his debut in episode 1, aired in October 2017. The series revolves around a group of young people working in a café with unique character dynamics and themes centered around customer service and personal growth.
Profile at a Glance
Hideri Kanzaki is a 16-year-old male character who presents himself in a feminine manner. As a member of the café staff, he plays the role of the "idol" waitress, captivating customers with his charm and appeal. With a height of 150 cm (4’11"), Hideri’s desire to escape farm life drives him to pursue his dream of becoming a glamorous idol, which serves as his primary motivation throughout the series.
Personality & Motivations
Hideri exhibits a blend of femininity and vulnerability, often putting on an exaggeratedly cute and charming persona to engage customers in the café. Despite this, his more masculine traits emerge unexpectedly, such as when he confidently handles situations that arise in the café, including battling pests. His dream of becoming an idol stems from a deep dislike of farm work, reflecting his desire for a life of glamour and excitement. Hideri is marked by his cheerful spirit and determination, often leading him to go to great lengths to attract customers, embodying the quintessential "idols" he aspires to emulate.
Abilities / Powers
Hideri’s standout skills are rooted in his ability to perform and present himself as an appealing idol figure. His signature abilities include captivating charm, allure in his interactions, and an impressive singing voice. He often employs these abilities to engage customers and enhance their café experience. However, his attempt to maintain a feminine appearance and demeanor can sometimes be compromised by the emergence of his masculine side, adding a layer of complexity to his character. Over the series, Hideri grows into a more confident and multifaceted individual, learning to balance the expectations of idol culture with his own authenticity.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Throughout Blend S, Hideri’s journey is primarily shaped by his pursuit of his idol dreams while navigating the challenges of his work environment. Key plot points include his interactions with the café staff and customers, where he often finds himself in amusing and sometimes awkward situations that highlight both his strengths and vulnerabilities. A pivotal moment occurs when Hideri begins to face the reality of what being an idol entails, balancing his fantasies with the day-to-day responsibilities of his job. This marks a turning point in his character development, as he learns to accept and embrace different facets of his identity.
Notable Relationships
Hideri has notable friendships within the café, particularly with characters like Maika Sakuranomiya, who plays the "sadistic" role and often interacts playfully with him. He has a friendly rivalry with other café staff members, allowing for humorous dynamics that enhance the overall story. His relationship with his family also serves as a background element, showcasing the contrast between his farming roots and his aspirations.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Hideri’s memorable scenes occurs in episode 3, where he vehemently showcases his dream of becoming an idol in front of the café team. His passionate outburst about his dreams resonates with viewers, illustrating his determination despite the challenges. A notable quote that encapsulates his spirit is, "I will shine brighter than anyone!" This declaration highlights his aspirations and commitment, earning him admiration among fans.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Hideri Kanzaki has emerged as a fan favorite, with 946 member favorites, underscoring his popularity. In terms of voice acting, he is portrayed by Kenji Nojima in the Japanese version, bringing life to his animated personality. In the English adaptation, he is voiced by a different actor, contributing to his charm in a bilingual context. Hideri’s character design reflects typical features of idol anime tropes, and his feminine presentation has led to interesting discussions within fandom about gender expression in anime.
In summary, Hideri Kanzaki is a vibrant, multifaceted character whose quest for fame and acceptance showcases the complexities of youth aspirations. His charm and relatability make him a vital part of the Blend S narrative, enabling fans to explore themes of identity, ambition, and friendship.
