Yamasato Ryota debuts as an owl in the Pan no Akachan anime

Yamasato Ryota, of the comedy duo Nankai Candies, joins the cast of Pan no Akachan, the original anime airing within the program Doyō wa Nani Suru!? on Kantele and Fuji TV. The comedian will play an owl starting with episode 12, scheduled for November 19, the network announced.

The character is a knight owl who calmly watches over the bread babies. Yamasato, who serves as the show's host, will not appear in every episode: his participation will be irregular.

After the first recording session, Yamasato said he has finally found a role he identifies with. "Up until now I've been lucky enough to take part in works like One Piece, Doraemon, Detective Conan, and Garfield, but I've finally found a role where I feel this is my voice," he said in the statement released by Kantele.

The comedian explained that he prepared thoroughly to bring the animal to life. "I worked on the role from the moment I got the offer until the recording. I think I was able to bring out everything I've cultivated so far," he commented. He also asked viewers to pay attention to the character's expressiveness: "I'd like you to notice the expression of emotions. I put feeling into every line, so I'm sure it will reach you."

An anime about bread dough coming to life

Pan no Akachan premiered in July 2026 within the Saturday morning block. The story follows bread dough resting in a bakery's fridge overnight. When humans sleep, the bread babies wake up, chat, clean, and argue. Sometimes they also sunbathe on the roof.

The premise plays with the idea that, since they haven't been baked yet, the dough can change shape and has endless possibilities. The series portrays the everyday adventures of characters who are ignorant, fearful, and occasionally brave.

Yamasato's addition comes as the series heads into its 12th episode. The program Doyō wa Nani Suru!? airs every Saturday at 8:30 a.m. on Kantele and Fuji TV.