Japanese voice actress and singer Naomi Payton made her first live performance in the Philippines as part of the JAM Concert at Cosplay Carnival 2026, describing the experience as both rare and memorable. “That feeling of ‘I just got a very amazing chance’ still lingers in my heart, and I’m very honored to receive this rare opportunity and amazing experience,” she said.
Payton, who debuted in 2023, expressed her aspiration to voice young boy characters. “Acting for roles regardless of one’s gender is the fascinating part of being a voice actor. I’m a woman, but being able to do male roles is amazing, and I’m aiming to be able to do that,” she explained. She credited the long‑running Precure series as her primary inspiration, saying, “Even now Precure has a place in my heart.”
Meeting fans in person has been a highlight of her career. “Meeting everyone in person, hearing voices, seeing faces, and making fun times together is something I always look forward to,” she shared. Payton also expressed happiness at discovering she had supporters in the Philippines, adding, “I’m really happy that there are people supporting me from places across the seas like the Philippines, and I was hoping that one day I’d be able to meet everyone.”
Her artistic influences include idol groups AKB48 and Momoiro Clover Z, which inspired her to pursue performing. Since her debut, she has released four singles, appeared in three live shows, and is preparing to release her first album in the summer. “I write the songs one by one with great importance, hoping everyone listens to them,” she said.
Despite language barriers, Payton emphasized her efforts to connect with audiences. “During singing performances I try to communicate with everyone by smiling and doing gestures,” she explained. Summarizing her message to fans worldwide, she said simply: “I love you.”
ANIMEPH is a media partner of Cosplay Carnival 2026.
