Series & First Appearance
Makoto Tachibana is a character from the anime series Free!, created by Kyoto Animation and based on the light novel High Speed! by Kouji Ouji. He made his first appearance in the anime’s pilot episode, "Departure" (Season 1, Episode 1), which premiered on July 4, 2013.
Profile at a Glance
Makoto Tachibana is 17 years old and serves as a protagonist in the series. He is a backstroke swimmer for the Iwatobi High School swimming team and is often considered the moral center of the group. Makoto’s signature abilities include exceptional swimming skills, particularly in backstroke, and his role as a supportive teammate and friend.
Personality & Motivations
Makoto is characterized by his kindness, consideration for others, and strong sense of responsibility, often acting as a spokesperson for his best friend, Haruka Nanase. Despite his gentle nature, he has a timid side; he’s easily frightened and carries a deep-seated fear of the ocean due to a traumatic childhood event. His primary motivations revolve around supporting his friends, especially Haruka, while also overcoming his fears and uncertainties about the future. One of his notable quirks is his tendency to worry excessively about his friends and the wellbeing of his team.
Abilities / Powers
Makoto is an accomplished swimmer, particularly excelling in backstroke. He possesses a powerful build, standing at 183 cm (6’0") and weighing 73 kg (161 lbs), which contributes to his swimming prowess. While his skills are impressive, his fear of the ocean can act as a limitation, especially during races or outdoor training. Over the course of the series, Makoto learns to confront his fears and evolve as both a swimmer and a leader.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Key story arcs for Makoto include his journey to overcome his fear of the ocean, which stems from a traumatic incident in his childhood involving the drowning of a ship crew during a typhoon, including a family friend. This backstory is explored throughout the series, culminating in moments where he must face his phobia. Personal growth for Makoto is evident through his evolving relationship with Haruka, as he becomes more assertive and learns to express his own aspirations, particularly in the context of their shared dreams in swimming.
Notable Relationships
Makoto shares a deep, inseparable bond with Haruka Nanase, which has shaped much of his character development. His role as Haruka’s confidant positions him as a crucial ally throughout the series. Additionally, he shares strong friendships with other members of the Iwatobi swim team, including Rin Matsuoka and Nagisa Hazuki. Makoto’s interactions with his coach, as well as his mentorship of younger swimmers, further emphasize his nurturing personality.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Makoto’s memorable moments occurs in Season 1, Episode 12, during the Inter-High competition, where he confronts his fear of the ocean to support his team. This scene not only reinforces his character development but also highlights the themes of friendship and courage.
Another impactful moment happens in Season 2, Episode 9, where he shares an emotional conversation with Haruka about their dreams and aspirations, encapsulating his role as a supportive friend.
One of Makoto’s notable quotes is, “Even if you’re scared, you have to face it,” which serves as a testament to his journey of overcoming fears alongside his friends.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Makoto Tachibana has garnered significant popularity, ranking among the top favorite characters in various polls, with over 4,900 member favorites on MyAnimeList. He is voiced by Yoshimasa Hosoya in the Japanese version and by Chris Niosi in the English dub. The character’s design emphasizes his athletic build and gentle features, which align with his overall personality. The production team at Kyoto Animation is praised for their attention to detail in animating swimming sequences, giving Makoto’s abilities a visually stunning representation on screen.
In terms of cultural references, Makoto’s character embodies the archetype of the supportive friend, which resonates with many fans who appreciate the series’ exploration of friendship and personal growth in the competitive world of swimming.
In summary, Makoto Tachibana stands out as a multi-dimensional character in Free!, melding athletic prowess with deep emotional layers, making him a beloved figure among anime fans.
