Series & First Appearance
Borsalino, known by his alias Kizaru, hails from the acclaimed manga and anime series One Piece, created by Eiichiro Oda. He first appeared in Chapter 498 of the manga and made his anime debut in Episode 405.
Profile at a Glance
Borsalino is a middle-aged man and serves as one of the three Admirals in the Marines, primarily functioning as an antagonist within the series. He is affiliated with the World Government and commands a significant portion of Marine troops. His signature abilities stem from the Pika Pika no Mi (Light-Light Fruit), a Logia-type Devil Fruit that grants him control over light, allowing for devastating attacks and incredible speed.
Personality & Motivations
Kizaru is characterized by a laid-back demeanor similar to Admiral Aokiji, often appearing unconcerned even in dire situations. He exhibits a calm, cool-headed nature, rarely shocked and often finding humor in unexpected events. However, he also possesses a ruthless side reminiscent of Admiral Akainu, showing little mercy toward pirates and criminals once he has set his sights on them. His quirky habit of sometimes appearing absent-minded is evident, such as when he humorously notes the excessive force used in his actions. He prefers to be called "Borsalino," indicating a personal connection to his original identity.
Abilities / Powers
As a user of the Pika Pika no Mi, Kizaru has the exceptional ability to move at the speed of light, making him one of the fastest characters in the series. His powers allow him to let objects pass through him and reform his body from energy particles. He can unleash powerful light-based attacks, typically by firing energy blasts from his fingertips or feet, causing massive explosions and destruction. His combat style intricately blends his speed and mastery of swordsmanship, allowing him to duel formidable opponents like Silvers Rayleigh. However, his reliance on light-based techniques also presents some limitations, particularly against adversaries capable of counteracting or nullifying his powers.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Kizaru plays significant roles in various arcs, particularly during the Sabaody Archipelago Arc, where he is tasked with capturing escapees from the Marine headquarters. His ruthless efficiency is demonstrated as he captures over 500 pirates out of sheer spite following the confrontation with the Straw Hat Pirates. Kizaru also appears in the Marineford Arc, showcasing his strength in the war against the Whitebeard Pirates and later during the Dressrosa Arc, where his authority and influence are further evident. Each of these encounters highlights both his formidable powers and his complex nature, as his calm demeanor and savage actions create a stark juxtaposition.
Notable Relationships
Kizaru’s role as an Admiral places him in direct opposition to several key characters, including the Straw Hat Pirates and the Pirate Emperors. His relationships with fellow Admirals, such as Akainu and Aokiji, are marked by a blend of camaraderie and rivalry as they navigate the ethical complexities of their duties. Notably, his pursuit of Silvers Rayleigh—despite Rayleigh’s retirement from piracy—demonstrates his unwavering commitment to the Marine’s goals, viewing even ex-pirates as threats to the World Government.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Kizaru’s most memorable moments occurs during the Sabaody Archipelago Arc when he effortlessly dodges bullets and showcases his light-speed abilities. A standout quote that encapsulates his character is, "This is Borsalino," which he states when contacted by Sentoumaru—offering insight into his preference for his original name and hinting at a deeper personal identity beyond his title as Kizaru. His interactions and combat display throughout the arcs have solidified his position as a formidable character in the One Piece universe.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Kizaru has garnered a substantial fanbase, earning 674 member favorites on platforms dedicated to anime and manga. His character design is notably inspired by the famous Japanese actor Kunie Tanaka, contributing to his memorable appearance. In the Japanese dub, Kizaru is voiced by Yoshiko Sakakibara, while in the English version, he is voiced by Christopher Sabat. His popularity continues to grow, as fans appreciate the complex blend of his aloof personality paired with lethal efficiency. Furthermore, his alias "Kizaru," translating to "Yellow Monkey," aligns with the mischievous nature often associated with his character, making him one of the more unique figures within the Marine organization of the One Piece world.
