BLEACH anime features major character evolutions and new merchandise

The anime series ‘BLEACH Thousand-Year Blood War’ has reached significant narrative milestones in its latest episodes. In episode 44, ‘THE PERFECT CRIMSON’, the character Kenpachi Zaraki activates his Bankai, a moment that has drawn intense fan reaction due to its emotional connection to Yachiru Kusajishi.

Simultaneously, Toshiro Hitsugaya has achieved his ‘complete Bankai’, resulting in a physical transformation into an adult form. This evolution includes a change in voice actor; Yuki Kaji has taken over the role from Rumi Pak for this specific adult iteration. Kaji expressed his respect for the series and his predecessor during the casting process.

In conjunction with these developments, the ‘Ichiban Kuji BLEACH Stirring Souls vol. 5’ lottery lineup has been announced. Scheduled for release on September 19, 2026, the collection features high-quality figures based on these recent anime appearances, including an adult Toshiro Hitsugaya, Yoruichi Shihoin in her ‘Shunkō’ form, and a Kenpachi Zaraki Bankai figure.