The glamorous world of Japanese voice actors just took a harsh hit when Jirai-chan, a well-known influencer and industry insider, openly confirmed the existence of a disturbing “unspoken rule” to advance careers.
Right at the start of the new year, Jirai-chan set Twitter ablaze with a post that racked up millions of views. She candidly answered a sensitive question: “Is there a ‘sofa test’ in the entertainment industry?” Her response was not only affirmative but included chilling terms that shocked listeners.
The Truth Behind the ‘Sofa Squad’
According to Jirai-chan, within the seiyuu community there is a term called “Esquadrão do Sofá” or “Sofa Squad.” This sarcastic label refers to newcomers who, despite lacking fame or strong skills, repeatedly land roles in major TV anime projects by “accepting invitations” from directors.
She shared, “I myself was once offered such a proposal by an anime director while working in the industry. I despised it deeply and refused to become someone who only gets roles that way. So I chose a different path to keep my integrity.”
When fans asked for proof and the director’s identity, Jirai-chan declined, citing legal concerns and potential lawsuits. She also emphasized that her role in Kemono Friends was earned purely through talent.
Mixed Reactions from Japanese Netizens: ‘Is This Just Common Practice?’
Under Jirai-chan’s post, a heated debate erupted among Japanese online communities, expressing a wide range of emotions.
Some questioned the director’s authority: “I thought anime directors don’t have much say in casting, that it’s usually producers or sponsors?”
Others faced the harsh reality: “So the criteria for seiyuu now isn’t just singing well, dancing, or looks, but also knowing how to ‘play the sofa game’?”
This sparked suspicions about certain stars: “Some have no impressive track record but suddenly land lead roles in their second or third year… you can see what’s going on right away.”
Some comments took a pragmatic tone: “If it’s a means to success, maybe it’s not so bad? If women do it, men probably do too.”
The Struggle of Talented but Overlooked Performers
More thoughtful remarks pointed out that the issue isn’t just lazy people seeking quick fame, but also genuinely talented individuals who are pushed to see the “sofa test” as their last resort.
This scandal reminds audiences that behind sweet voices and dazzling anime characters lies a harsh industry machine with dark, unsettling realities.