Series & First Appearance
Hizashi Yamada appears in the anime and manga series "My Hero Academia," created by Kohei Horikoshi. He made his debut in Chapter 1 of the manga and later appeared in Episode 1 of the anime.
Profile at a Glance
Hizashi Yamada, also known by his hero name "Present Mic," is a 30-year-old English teacher at U.A. High School, where he plays a crucial role in the training of aspiring heroes. His Quirk, "Voice," allows him to amplify his voice to incredible levels, making him not only an effective teacher but also a supportive figure in high-stakes situations.
Personality & Motivations
Present Mic is characterized by his exuberant personality and unwavering enthusiasm. He is often loud and boisterous, fully embracing his role as an entertainer. His catchphrase, "Yah-hoo!" encapsulates his vibrant demeanor. Motivated by a desire to inspire and educate his students, Yamada places a high value on friendship and mentorship, particularly with his close confidant, Shouta Aizawa (Eraser Head).
Abilities / Powers
Yamada’s Quirk, "Voice," allows him to greatly amplify his vocal output, providing him with a wide range of applications—from announcing competitions to disorienting opponents in battle. His powers can produce sound waves strong enough to incapacitate enemies or disrupt their focus. A notable limitation of this power is that it primarily relies on his vocal cords, meaning overuse can strain his voice, necessitating breaks or vocal rest. Additionally, his combat style is heavily based on sound manipulation, which demonstrates a unique approach compared to traditional brute-force fighting.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Present Mic plays a support role throughout various story arcs, often appearing during U.A.’s events or battles. Notably, he provides commentary during the U.A. Sports Festival, helping to build the atmosphere and focus on student performances. His friendship with Aizawa is further explored in the "Vigilante" arc, which reveals their shared past and solidifies their commitment to each other’s growth. The "Shie Hassaikai Arc" also showcases his dedication to his students by providing guidance in tense moments, reinforcing his narrative importance as a mentor.
Notable Relationships
Hizashi Yamada has enduring friendships with several key characters. His bond with Shouta Aizawa is particularly significant, as they share a mutual respect derived from their past experiences and collaboration as teachers. Additionally, his interactions with students, especially the Class 1-A members, highlight his role as both an authoritative figure and a source of motivation. His camaraderie with fellow pro heroes, like All Might, further emphasizes his position within the professional hero community.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of the most memorable moments occurs in Episode 1 of "My Hero Academia," where Yamada introduces himself to the new U.A. students with great zeal at the entrance ceremony. This scene effectively showcases his character’s energetic spirit and sets the tone for his role throughout the series. Another notable line is during the U.A. Sports Festival, where he declares, "I will show you how powerful this voice can be!" These moments resonate with fans, illustrating his importance as a motivational figure in the series.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Hizashi Yamada has become a fan favorite, ranking in the top spots during popularity polls, with 264 member favorites attesting to his popularity. Voice actor Kazuya Nakai performs the character in Japanese, while David W. Collins provides the English dub, both of whom were praised for capturing his energetic nature. This dual voice-acting approach highlights the character’s vibrant vibes and adaptability across different cultures. In addition, Yamada’s design incorporates elements of music and sound influences, visually reinforcing his Quirk and personality.
Yamada’s character is influenced by the "entertainer" archetype often seen in shonen series, where loud personalities serve to inspire and connect with other characters. His layered personality, motivations, and loud, unforgettable character design resonates with audiences, solidifying him as a well-drawn figure in the "My Hero Academia" universe.
