Yamada Ryosuke made headlines on January 5, 2024, with his surprise guest appearance on the TV show Buun Buun Jya, which aired its 43rd episode. Known for his previous role as Gokai Blue/Joe Gibken on Kaizoku Sentai Gokaiger, Yamada's return generated buzz and excitement among fans.
This episode of Buun Buun Jya featured dramatic moments including the appearance of the main villain "Waride Spindo" and unexpected betrayals. Yamada’s character made his entrance just as the Buhnred team faced turmoil, offering inspiration and encouragement. He utilizes the Buhn Ranger Key to change and fight against monstrous foes with dual-wielding action.
Upon returning to his beloved character, Yamada expressed his enthusiasm: "I was so happy to transform back to Gokai Red. I spoke the transformation line with flair! Wearing the costume brought back all the emotions of being Joe," he reflected. It’s clear Yamada cherishes his past role and the impact it has on fans and followers alike.
His co-star, Yuuhi Iinai, who plays Buhnred, also shared his feelings about working alongside Yamada. He admitted to feeling nervous during filming, stating, "It was like going back to my first time on set. Collaboratively acting with Yamada was a dream come true. I felt the pressure but more so the excitement of sharing the screen with such talent."
Fans had anticipated Yamada's appearance for quite some time. Hints had been dropped during previous episodes, including visuals of the Gokai flag being displayed, leading to speculation on social media about who would make the comeback and whether the original forms would return. Finally, when he appeared during the broadcast, it brought nostalgia to those who watched his original outings.
Yamada's reputation as Gokai Blue remains steadfast, and his interactions with the new generation of heroes resonate with themes of mentorship and perseverance. "Even if the world turns against you, you must follow your own path," Yamada’s character intoned, rallying the current heroes as they faced their respective challenges.
This episode not only featured heartwarming moments but also showcased the connection across franchises within the Super Sentai universe. Announcements about upcoming episodes hinted at more appearances from previous characters, keeping the viewers on the edge of their seats.
Fans celebrated Yamada's renewed portrayal through various platforms. Following the episode's airing, the Toei Tokusatsu Fan Club (TTFC) began streaming audio commentaries for episodes of Kaizoku Sentai Gokaiger, which include insights from the creators and cast members about the making of the show and the cultural impact it made as part of the franchise.
Future broadcasts of Buun Buun Jya are set with similar themes of heroism and loyalty, which have been hallmark characteristics of the Super Sentai series. Yamada's heartfelt return not only captivated audiences but also reaffirmed the strength and continuity of the series across generations.
With every new episode, the excitement builds as both long-time fans and new viewers continue to engage with the captivating stories created within the Super Sentai universe.
The show continues to air every Sunday at 9:30 AM on TV-Asahi, offering opportunities for the brand’s legacy to thrive. The buzz surrounding Yamada Ryosuke's special appearance is not just about nostalgia—it’s about keeping the legacy alive and inspiring younger heroes both on-screen and off.