Series & First Appearance
Chizuru Ichinose first appears in "Kanojo, Okarishimasu", a romantic comedy manga series created by Riichi Ueshiba, which originally debuted in July 2017. The anime adaptation premiered in July 2020 and is produced by TMS Entertainment. This character has also featured in related media, including sequels, spin-offs, and movies, such as "Kanojo, Okarishimasu 2nd Season" and "Kanojo, Okarishimasu: Date Movie".
Profile at a Glance
Chizuru Ichinose, born on April 19, 1998, is a 20-year-old college student at Nerima University, where she majors in Literature. She is primarily known as the protagonist of the series and works as a rental girlfriend under the alias Chizuru Mizuhara. Her notable traits include her charming demeanor and ability to adapt to various situations, often serving as an emotional anchor for other characters.
Personality & Motivations
Chizuru is characterized by her determined and responsible nature, showing great dedication to her work and studies. She exhibits kindness and empathy, often prioritizing others’ feelings despite her own struggles. Notably, she maintains a strong facade to protect her vulnerabilities, often using her job as a coping mechanism to escape her own insecurities. A quirky aspect of her character is her obsession with acting and romantic scenarios, stemming from her love for literature. Catchphrases or recurring themes include her reflections on love and relationships, often expressed through her interactions with Kazuya Kinoshita, the male lead.
Abilities / Powers
While Chizuru does not possess supernatural powers, her standout ability lies in her exceptional acting skills, particularly in her role as a rental girlfriend. This skill allows her to convincingly adapt to various emotional circumstances, showcasing her deep understanding of human emotions. Chizuru’s academic prowess in literature enhances her ability to craft narratives, whether in her personal life or her rental challenges. However, she struggles with feelings of inadequacy and failed expectations, which can sometimes hinder her personal growth.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Throughout the series, pivotal moments shape Chizuru’s character development. Early on, she lands a rental job out of financial necessity, which sets off a chain of events leading her to meet Kazuya. Their complicated relationship evolves through various challenges, such as misunderstandings and emotional confrontations, particularly in Episode 5 where her feelings begin to deepen against her initial intentions. Chizuru’s growth is further highlighted during the "Kanojo, Okarishimasu 2nd Season," as her internal struggles and aspirations come to the forefront, forcing her to confront her feelings for Kazuya and her professional ethics.
Notable Relationships
Chizuru’s primary relationship is with Kazuya Kinoshita, who initially hires her as a rental girlfriend. Their relationship develops from a transactional nature to a deeper connection marked by emotional turmoil and mutual growth. She also interacts with other characters, including Mami Nanami, her main rival, who often challenges her relationship with Kazuya. Chizuru’s connection with her grandmother highlights her motivations and the expectations placed upon her, serving as both a source of inspiration and pressure.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable moment occurs in Episode 4, when Chizuru faces a difficult client while maintaining her composure as a rental girlfriend, showcasing her ability to balance professionalism with personal emotion. The line, "I just wanted to be liked for who I am," captures her struggle for authenticity in a world where she feels compelled to wear a facade. This moment resonates with fans, highlighting the theme of identity versus expectations that runs throughout the series.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Chizuru is voiced by Mikako Komatsu in the Japanese version, known for her ability to convey complex emotions, which adds depth to Chizuru’s character. In the English dub, the character is voiced by Ari Ozawa, who similarly captures her charm and emotional complexity. Chizuru has consistently ranked highly in popularity polls, with over 11,336 favorites logged, reflecting her appeal as a relatable and multi-dimensional character. Her name, "Chizuru," can mean "thousand cranes," symbolizing peace and good fortune in Japanese culture, further underscoring her character’s depth and aspirations within the series.
In conclusion, Chizuru Ichinose stands out as a well-crafted character who embodies the intricate dance between professional obligation and personal desire, making her a favorite among fans of the series. Her portrayal offers insight into the complexities of modern relationships and the challenges of self-identity amid societal expectations.
