Series & First Appearance
Jin Bubaigawara, known by his villain alias Twice, is a character from the anime and manga series Boku no Hero Academia (My Hero Academia), created by Kōhei Horikoshi. He first appeared in Chapter 124 of the manga and made his anime debut in Episode 63, titled "The Origin of Evil".
Profile at a Glance
At 31 years old, Twice is a significant antagonist within the series, affiliated with Shigaraki’s League of Villains. His signature ability, characterized by his Quirk "Double," allows him to create duplicates of any object or person; however, he initially struggled to replicate himself due to past trauma. His character showcases a complex narrative arc influenced by his experiences within the League.
Personality & Motivations
Twice exhibits a multifaceted personality, often oscillating between an over-the-top, comedic demeanor and deeply emotional moments stemming from his trauma. He grapples with feelings of abandonment and identity, revealing a profound desire for acceptance and connection. His catchphrase, “It’s been a while, hasn’t it?!” reflects his tendency to shift between serious and playful exchanges, adding layers to his character in his interactions with allies and adversaries alike.
Abilities / Powers
Twice’s Quirk, "Double", allows him to create two exact duplicates of anything, from objects to living beings. Initially, he refrained from duplicating himself due to the trauma of losing his sense of identity; however, following pivotal character development during the Paranormal Liberation War Arc, he overcomes this barrier and unlocks the potential to not only duplicate himself but also create further duplicates from both himself and his copies, leading to exponentially increasing numbers. His combat style often relies on creating confusion through numbers, overwhelming opponents with sheer volume, although he must maintain focus and a degree of emotional stability to fully utilize his powers.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Twice’s narrative arc is marked by key moments that drive his character development. During the Forest Training Arc, he is introduced as a formidable antagonist, showcasing his abilities and psychological vulnerabilities. His most significant growth occurs during the Paranormal Liberation Front Arc, where he confronts his deep-seated trauma. This confrontation culminates in a battle against Hawks, where he realizes his own identity and significance as an individual, thus evolving his Quirk. Tragically, this growth leads to his demise when Hawks, believing him to be a substantial threat, kills him in a moment that adds emotional weight to the overarching conflict between heroes and villains.
Notable Relationships
Twice’s relationships significantly shape his character. His bond with Shigaraki, the leader of the League of Villains, encapsulates his need for belonging and acceptance, providing a contrast to the existential struggles he faces. Additionally, his friendship with Hawks, who reveals himself to be a mole, showcases a complex dynamic of loyalty and betrayal. Twice’s interactions highlight the duality of heroism and villainy and explore themes of identity and community.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
An iconic moment occurs during his emotional realization in Chapter 334, when he embraces his identity and his ability to create duplicates of himself. This moment resonates with fans as it represents personal triumph over trauma. Twice’s declaration, “I am me, and I will be who I am!,” emphasizes his journey towards self-acceptance and serves as an emotional climax in his narrative arc.
Another memorable scene is during his intense confrontation with Hawks, where his vulnerability is juxtaposed with his fighting spirit, elevating the stakes of their conflict and leaving a lasting impression on viewers. This fight not only underscores the chaotic nature of hero-villain relationships but also humanizes Twice as he struggles with his choices.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Twice has become a fan favorite, frequently ranking high in popularity polls, often due to his relatable struggles with identity and belonging. His voice in the Japanese version is provided by Mitsuki Saiga, who effectively conveys both the lighthearted and serious aspects of his character. In the English adaptation, his voice is performed by Chris Sabat, known for his ability to bring a diverse range of characters to life. The character design of Twice, featuring his distinct mask and playful attire, has garnered attention for its unique visual representation of duality and identity.
Twice’s narrative arcs draw from themes prevalent in many hero versus villain stories, but his unique handling of identity crisis and personal trauma adds depth, making him a subject of interest among fans and scholars alike.
