It's a question that pops up surprisingly often in discussions about the beloved anime and manga series Made in Abyss: is Nanachi a girl?
This isn't a simple yes or no, and honestly, that ambiguity is part of what makes Nanachi such a fascinating character. Nanachi is a 'Hollow,' a creature that has undergone a transformation through the Abyss's unique and often brutal processes. This transformation has altered their physical form, making it difficult to assign a conventional gender. They present with a more masculine voice and often use masculine pronouns in Japanese, leading many to assume Nanachi is male.
However, the character's creator, Akihito Tsukushi, has intentionally left Nanachi's gender open to interpretation. In interviews, Tsukushi has stated that Nanachi is neither male nor female, but rather a character who exists outside of these traditional gender binaries. This deliberate choice allows Nanachi to be seen and understood on their own terms, free from societal expectations tied to gender.
Adding another layer to this discussion is the voice actor behind Nanachi. In the Japanese version of the anime, Nanachi is voiced by Shiori Izawa. Izawa is a talented voice actress who has lent her voice to a variety of characters across many anime and film projects, as seen in the reference material. Her performance imbues Nanachi with a unique warmth and personality that resonates deeply with audiences, regardless of how they perceive Nanachi's gender.
Ultimately, Nanachi's identity is a testament to the creative freedom within storytelling. They are a unique being, shaped by their environment and their experiences. Whether you see Nanachi as a boy, a girl, or something else entirely, their journey through the Abyss and their bond with Riko and Reg are what truly define them. The ambiguity surrounding their gender only adds to their mystique and the depth of their character, inviting viewers to look beyond superficial labels and appreciate the individual for who they are.
