Surprise Collaboration from McDonald's Japan: Masako Nozawa 'Flirts' with Baki Characters!
McDonald's Japan has brought together two giants of the anime world in an unexpected and highly entertaining project. Masako Nozawa, the unforgettable voice of the Dragon Ball series, takes the lead in a "dating sim" parody alongside the tough fighters of the Baki series in the brand's new advertising campaign. This campaign, which began on April 18, 2026, has garnered significant attention on social media by offering fans a nostalgic and humorous experience.
In the commercial, Nozawa is forced to make a difficult choice between iconic characters like Baki Hanma and Kaio Retsu and a delicious chicken burger via a classic dating sim interface. This absurd yet creative premise was specially prepared for the promotion of the "Chicken Tatsuta" burger series, which is eagerly awaited every year in Japan. The contrast between the hyper-masculine and intense art style of the Baki series, created by Keisuke Itagaki, and Nozawa's affectionate energy has been one of the biggest elements making viewers smile.
89-year-old Masako Nozawa has become one of the living legends of the anime industry, bringing to life not only Son Goku but also characters like Gohan and Goten. On the other hand, the Baki series, which has been ongoing since 1991 and is one of the most important representatives of the martial arts genre, has reached the peak of its global popularity, especially with its recent seasons on Netflix. Although McDonald's Japan has previously collaborated with series like Spy x Family and One Piece, this is the first time they have brought together such a niche parody style and a voice acting legend.
This campaign proves once again that the anime industry is not just a form of entertainment, but also a powerful marketing element for major brands. Fans can access interactive versions of the ad and exclusive content through the official McDonald's Japan mobile app. In the coming days, limited-edition menus and collectible items exclusive to this collaboration are expected to hit stores. For anime lovers, such creative advertisements offer a great opportunity to see their favorite characters in roles outside of the ordinary.
