Voice Actress Fairouz Ai Restricts Activities Due to PTSD Diagnosis

Voice actress Fairouz Ai, widely recognized for her roles in JoJo no Kimyou na Bouken: Stone Ocean (JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: Stone Ocean) as Jolyne Kuujou and Chainsaw Man as Power, has announced a partial restriction of her professional activities due to a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The news was shared on December 31 via her talent agency, Raccoon Dog, and her official social media account. According to the agency's statement, the decision to limit her activities was made under the guidance of medical professionals, prioritizing her recovery. The statement also expressed apologies to fans and colleagues for any concerns or inconvenience caused, asking for their understanding and support during this time. In her personal message, Fairouz explained that she had been diagnosed with PTSD several months ago. Despite her efforts to meet expectations and continue her work, she decided that focusing on treatment and recovery was the best course of action. She thanked her agency and those around her for their support, emphasizing her determination to return stronger. Fairouz also requested privacy regarding the cause of her condition, which she attributed to private circumstances, urging fans to refrain from speculation or intrusive comments. She expressed her gratitude to fans, production teams, and the characters she has portrayed, vowing to make a full recovery and return to the industry she loves. Due to her condition, Fairouz will temporarily step back from her role as the Friday host on the Abema variety show Seiyuu to Yoasobi (Say You to Yoasobi), with Nobuhiko Okamoto stepping in as her replacement. Fairouz Ai has built a stellar career in anime, voicing iconic characters such as Hibiki Sakura in Dumbbell Nan Kilo Moteru? (How Heavy Are the Dumbbells You Lift?), Delta in Kage no Jitsuryokusha ni Naritakute! (The Eminence in Shadow), and Kikoru Shinomiya in Kaijuu 8-gou (Kaiju No. 8). Her works earned her the Best New Actress Award at the 14th Seiyuu Awards in 2020. PTSD, or post-traumatic stress disorder, is a mental health condition triggered by traumatic events, affecting approximately 1.3% of Japan's population. While many recover within months, some cases require extended treatment. Fairouz has pledged to dedicate herself to her recovery and hopes fans will continue to support her characters and projects during her absence.