Genta Matsuda’s portrayal of Taka in Mufasa: The Lion King marks a remarkable debut in voice acting, showcasing his versatility and emotional depth. As a member of Travis Japan, Genta steps into the complex role of young Taka—later known as Scar—bringing a fresh and compelling interpretation to one of Disney’s most iconic characters.
From the very beginning, Genta brings Taka to life with a voice full of warmth, innocence, and genuine affection. His Taka is bright and curious, a lion cub yearning for connection—especially with Mufasa, whom he calls his brother. But as the story progresses and Taka’s world begins to unravel, Genta subtly shifts his tone, capturing the heartbreak, jealousy, and sorrow that begin to define the character’s emotional journey. His transformation from hopeful cub to wounded soul is portrayed with remarkable nuance and restraint.
One of the most powerful aspects of Genta’s performance is its emotional honesty. In a particularly heartbreaking moment, when Taka realizes that Mufasa and Sarabi share a bond he will never be part of, Genta’s voice breaks—raw, quiet, and devastating. Even when Taka makes the choice that seals his fate—betraying Mufasa’s location to the enemy—Genta delivers the line “I have no brother” with fragile conviction rather than malice. It’s a performance that paints Taka not as a villain, but as a boy who simply wanted to be loved—and was left behind.
In addition to his voice acting, Genta’s musical talents shine in the song “I Always Wanted A Brother / 君みたいな兄弟,” performed alongside Ukon Onoue, who voices Mufasa. The duet captures the complicated bond between the two lions, adding an emotional weight that lingers even after the song ends.
But what really strikes the heart is Genta’s solo performance of “Brother Betrayed“, a powerful ballad featured in the film that captures Taka’s emotional turning point. Delivered with raw intensity, the song conveys the pain of betrayal, longing, and the heartbreak of being cast aside. Genta’s vocals—at once trembling and defiant—bring Taka’s internal struggle to the forefront, making it one of the most memorable pieces in the movie.
What makes this performance even more impressive is how distinct it is from Genta’s usual work as an idol. Known for his energetic, polished stage persona in Travis Japan, Genta taps into a deeper, rawer register in “Brother Betrayed”—delivering emotional grit and vulnerability in a way fans have never heard before. It’s a striking contrast to the hopeful and bright tone of “We Go Together,” highlighting just how much range Genta possesses as a vocalist. This song not only enhances the character’s arc but also elevates Genta’s credibility as a serious musical performer. This solo track allows Genta to fully embody Taka’s descent, not as a villain’s theme, but as a grieving boy’s anthem.
For fans around the world, this performance is not limited to Japan. The Japanese dubbed version of Mufasa: The Lion King, featuring Genta as Taka, is available globally on Disney+. This allows international audiences to experience the depth and delicacy of Genta’s voice work—an interpretation that offers new insight into the emotional roots of Scar’s character.
Genta’s performance was further celebrated during the Friends of Disney Concert 2025 ~10th Anniversary~, held on April 20 at Tokyo International Forum. There, he performed “Brother Betrayed,” a duet version of “Love Is an Open Door” with Reina Yamazaki, and reunited with Onoue for a live rendition of “I Always Wanted A Brother / 君みたいな兄弟.”
The concert also coincided with Genta’s 26th birthday, marked by a surprise birthday song from the cast and staff—an emotional highlight that underscored how beloved he has become within the Disney family.
He also attended the film’s world premiere in Los Angeles, walking the red carpet alongside international cast members, and participated in a special promotional event in Singapore, where he engaged with local fans and press. These international appearances reflect Disney’s global confidence in Genta’s role and the growing recognition of his talents abroad.
With this role, Genta proved himself not only as a charismatic idol but as a serious voice actor capable of delivering a deeply moving performance. His Taka is not just Scar before he turned—but a fully realized character in his own right, shaped by hope, heartbreak, and unspoken love.
Mufasa: The Lion King is a tragic origin story—one that asks what happens when a bright soul is dimmed too soon. And through Genta’s voice, we are reminded that sometimes the ones who fall the hardest are the ones who loved the most.
To hear Genta’s performance for yourself, grab your snacks and drinks, and stream Mufasa: The Lion King in Japanese!
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