Fans of the "Kamen Rider series" definitely know this legend: Seiji Takaiwa. From "Kamen Rider Agito" all the way to "Kamen Rider Zi-O," he was the suit actor for almost every main Rider. This earned him the legendary title of "Mr. Heisei Rider." With the Reiwa era now in full swing, he's passed the torch to younger suit actors. But don't count him out yet! He's still active in various tokusatsu shows, and this time, he's taking on "Super Sentai"!
The latest entry in the "Super Sentai Series," "NO.1 Sentai Gojūsha," is the franchise's 50th-anniversary commemorative work, featuring past Sentai teams co-starring. Seiji Takaiwa makes an appearance in episode 25, titled "Gutsy Police, Clear Skies!" He plays school janitor Shinya Bandou, who also happens to be "Space Warrior Lupin Red." And Takaiwa's transformation sequence in that episode? It's got everyone talking!
Eagle-eyed fans quickly noticed that Bandou's transformation is packed with classic moves Takaiwa performed as various Riders. We're talking "Kabuto's" finger-pointing-to-the-sky, "Ryuki's" pre-finisher stance, "Wizard's" signature pose, and even "Kiva's" Kivat-biting-the-hand transformation (though some argue it's "Decade's" hand-flick). After transforming, he busts out "Den-O's" iconic pose, and during the roll call, he even throws in "W's" "counting sins" gesture. It's pure fan service!
▼Even overseas tokusatsu fans are hyped!
This scene proves Takaiwa's still got it! Even after more than six years since donning a Kamen Rider suit, those moves are clearly etched into his memory. Not only do tokusatsu fans get a long-awaited appearance from a veteran Sentai, but they also get to witness "Mr. Heisei Rider's" spectacular transformation. Talk about a feast for the eyes!
via： ORICON