Series & First Appearance
Yamato Kurosawa is featured in the anime and manga series "Say ‘I Love You’" (Japanese: "SAY ‘I LOVE YOU’") created by Kanae Hazuki. He makes his debut in Chapter 1 of the manga, which was first published in 2010, and subsequently appears in Episode 1 of the anime adaptation produced by Zexcs in 2012.
Profile at a Glance
Yamato Kurosawa is a high school student, approximately 16 to 17 years old, who serves as one of the main protagonists in the series. He is well-known as one of the most popular boys at his school due to his looks and charm. Yamato’s relationships revolve primarily around his girlfriend, Mei Tachibana, and he exhibits a protective nature, particularly towards her.
Personality & Motivations
Yamato embodies traits such as kindness, protectiveness, and a strong sense of justice. He is deeply caring and prioritizes the well-being of others over his own problems, which often leads him to intervene when someone is being mistreated. Despite his popularity, he has struggles that add depth to his character. A notable quirk is his unique way of showing affection, including his decision to kiss Mei in a spontaneous yet protective act when her safety is compromised. Yamato’s main motivation revolves around building a sincere relationship with Mei and ensuring her happiness.
Abilities / Powers
While Yamato does not possess any supernatural abilities typical of shonen protagonists, his standout skills lie in social interactions and emotional intelligence. His eloquence and decisiveness in social situations enable him to defuse awkward or threatening scenarios, showcasing his adeptness in communication. Another hallmark of his character is his physical prowess in sports, which complements his role as a school idol. However, his protective nature can sometimes cause him emotional stress, as he grapples with balancing his feelings for Mei and his responsibilities.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Yamato’s character development is predominantly shaped by his evolving relationship with Mei. Initially, their interaction begins with a comedic clash — he gets kicked by her during their first encounter. However, as the plot progresses, Yamato becomes a reliable figure for Mei when she faces adversity, such as dealing with a stalker. Key turning points occur around Episode 3, where their relationship transforms from mere acquaintances to a romantic couple following his request. His evolution from a popular yet somewhat superficial teen to a deeply caring boyfriend is a significant arc throughout the series, reinforced by his development of emotional connections and his moral compass.
Notable Relationships
- Mei Tachibana: Yamato’s primary love interest and eventual girlfriend. Their relationship is central to the narrative, showcasing themes of love, protection, and emotional growth.
- Asami: A close friend who provides insights into Yamato’s personality, often voicing her admiration for his selflessness and protective instincts.
- Rivals: While there are minor tensions with other male characters vying for Mei’s attention, none are significant rivals, emphasizing Yamato’s unique position in her life.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Yamato’s most memorable scenes occurs when he kisses Mei to protect her from an unwanted advance ("Say ‘I Love You,’" Episode 1). This moment solidifies their bond and marks the beginning of their romantic relationship. Another poignant moment is when he gives Mei a blue bracelet—signifying their relationship and commitment—deepening the emotional resonance of their connection.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
- Popularity: Yamato has garnered considerable popularity among fans, ranking as one of the top characters in polls, with over 953 member favorites noted in various databases.
- Voice-Actors: In the Japanese version, Yamato is voiced by Nobunaga Shimazaki, while the English version features Greg Ayres. Fans note the chemistry between the voice acting that brings his character to life effectively.
- Cultural References: Yamato’s character embodies the "prince charming" trope often found in shojo manga, familiar to audiences who enjoy romantic anime series.
Yamato Kurosawa stands as a pivotal character within "Say ‘I Love You’," exemplifying growth through love, emotional intelligence, and integrity, making him a memorable protagonist for fans of the genre.
