The mysterious and gentle Kaworu Nagisa is voiced by Akira Ishida in the original Japanese version, while the English dub features Kyle Sturdivant (ADV Films) and Clifford Chapin in the Netflix redub. Each actor brings a unique tone to Kaworu’s calm, enigmatic, and emotionally resonant presence.
Akira Ishida — Japanese Voice of Kaworu Nagisa
Date of Birth
November 2, 1967
About Akira
Akira Ishida is one of Japan’s most respected voice actors, known for his soft-spoken delivery and ability to portray introspective, mysterious characters. As Kaworu Nagisa, he delivers a serene and almost ethereal performance, perfectly capturing the character’s calm demeanor and philosophical nature. His subtle emotional expression makes Kaworu one of the most memorable figures in Evangelion.
Hometown
Nisshin, Aichi Prefecture, Japan
Career Highlights
- Neon Genesis Evangelion – Kaworu Nagisa (TV series, films, Rebuild series)
- Naruto – Gaara
- Bleach – Szayelaporro Granz
- Gintama – Kotaro Katsura
- Mobile Suit Gundam SEED – Athrun Zala
Ishida is widely known for voicing complex, often introspective characters across major anime franchises.
Full Current Filmography
Below is a structured list of major, verifiable roles (based on documented sources; may not be exhaustive):
Television Anime
- 1995–1996 – Neon Genesis Evangelion — Kaworu Nagisa
- Naruto — Gaara
- Bleach — Szayelaporro Granz
- Gintama — Kotaro Katsura
- Mobile Suit Gundam SEED — Athrun Zala
Films & Rebuild Series
- The End of Evangelion — Kaworu Nagisa
- Evangelion: Death and Rebirth — Kaworu Nagisa
- Rebuild of Evangelion film series — Kaworu Nagisa
Note: This list reflects documented major credits from reputable sources and may not include every minor or guest role.
Critical Reception
Akira Ishida’s portrayal of Kaworu is widely praised for its calm, almost otherworldly quality. His gentle tone and measured delivery enhance Kaworu’s philosophical dialogue and emotional impact, particularly in his interactions with Shinji.
Our Sources
- Neon Genesis Evangelion cast list (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neon_Genesis_Evangelion)
- Akira Ishida profile (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akira_Ishida)
- Kaworu Nagisa voice listings (https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/tv-shows/Neon-Genesis-Evangelion/Kaworu-Nagisa/)
Social Media
No verified official public social media accounts were found from reliable sources.
Kyle Sturdivant — English Voice of Kaworu Nagisa (ADV Films Dub)
Date of Birth
Not publicly documented
About Kyle
Kyle Sturdivant is an American voice actor best known for voicing Kaworu Nagisa in the original ADV Films English dub of Neon Genesis Evangelion. His portrayal captures Kaworu’s gentle tone and calm, introspective nature, aligning closely with the character’s quiet and philosophical presence in the series.
Hometown
United States (specific location not publicly documented)
Career Highlights
- Neon Genesis Evangelion – Kaworu Nagisa (ADV dub, including film releases)
- Additional roles in anime dubbing projects during the ADV Films era
Full Current Filmography
Below is a structured list of verifiable roles (based on documented sources; may not be exhaustive):
Anime (English Dub)
- 1995–1996 (dub released later) – Neon Genesis Evangelion — Kaworu Nagisa
- The End of Evangelion — Kaworu Nagisa
- Evangelion: Death and Rebirth — Kaworu Nagisa
Note: Publicly available sources document limited credits; this may not be exhaustive.
Critical Reception
Kyle Sturdivant’s performance is generally remembered for its softness and sincerity. While more understated compared to later interpretations, his portrayal effectively conveys Kaworu’s kindness and emotional connection with Shinji.
Clifford Chapin — English Voice of Kaworu Nagisa (Netflix Dub)
Date of Birth
January 29, 1988
About Clifford
Clifford Chapin is an American voice actor and ADR director known for his work in modern anime dubs. As Kaworu in the 2019 Netflix redub of Neon Genesis Evangelion, he delivers a smooth, composed performance that emphasizes the character’s calm demeanor and emotional subtlety.
Hometown
United States (specific location not publicly documented)
Career Highlights
- Neon Genesis Evangelion (Netflix Dub) – Kaworu Nagisa
- My Hero Academia – Katsuki Bakugo
- Attack on Titan – Connie Springer
- Tokyo Ghoul – Kōtarō Amon
Chapin is a prominent voice in contemporary anime dubbing, often cast in both intense and emotionally nuanced roles.
Full Current Filmography
Anime (English Dub)
- 2019 – Neon Genesis Evangelion (Netflix) — Kaworu Nagisa
- 2016–present – My Hero Academia — Katsuki Bakugo
- 2013–present – Attack on Titan — Connie Springer
- 2014–2018 – Tokyo Ghoul — Kōtarō Amon
Note: This list reflects documented major credits from reputable sources and may not include every minor or guest appearance.
Critical Reception
Clifford Chapin’s portrayal of Kaworu has been praised for its clarity and emotional restraint. His performance aligns closely with the original Japanese tone, offering a balanced interpretation that highlights Kaworu’s gentle and enigmatic qualities.
Our Sources
- Neon Genesis Evangelion cast list (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neon_Genesis_Evangelion)
- Clifford Chapin profile (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clifford_Chapin)
- Kaworu Nagisa voice listings (https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/tv-shows/Neon-Genesis-Evangelion/Kaworu-Nagisa/)
Social Media
- Twitter/X (Clifford Chapin): https://twitter.com/CliffordChapin
