HoYoverse has yet to announce a replacement for Alice Thymefield's voice actor.
Japanese voice actor Natsumi Murakami will no longer voice Alice Thymefield, an upcoming Agent in Zenless Zone Zero Version 2.1, after being diagnosed with vocal cord inflammation. Her agency, Yu-rin Pro, made the announcement via X on Monday (30 June), noting that she had experienced worsening symptoms in recent days and sought medical treatment.
Natsumi Murakami temporarily unavailable due to vocal cord inflammation
According to the post, Murakami was diagnosed with vocal cord inflammation caused by laryngitis, a condition where the larynx, or voice box, becomes inflamed—often due to overuse, irritation, or infection. This can result in a hoarse or weak voice and, in more severe cases, make it difficult to speak at all.
Following her doctor’s advice, Murakami will temporarily suspend all work involving her voice. “We will continue to consult with the doctor in charge,” the agency stated, adding that they would coordinate with event organisers to either “postpone” her appearances or “change” planned content. Yu-rin Pro apologised for the concern and inconvenience caused, and thanked fans for their continued understanding.
The official Zenless Zone Zero Japanese X account addressed the situation as well.
“We regret to inform you that Ms. Natsumi Murakami, who was scheduled to perform the role of Alice Thymefield, will be temporarily unable to participate in future recording sessions due to health reasons,” the post read. The official ZZZ account also confirmed that both the said VA and her agency withdrew after discussions with HoYoverse on the matter.
“We have made the difficult decision to have her withdraw from the role to ensure the smooth operation and gaming experience in upcoming versions,” they added, given that version 2.1 is releasing in a few weeks. HoYoverse expressed their “deepest gratitude” for her contributions and “wholeheartedly wish her a swift recovery,” while apologising to fans and collaborators for the disruption.
Murakami is known for her performances as Ako Saotome in Aikatsu Stars!, Yume Hinata in Mewkledreamy, and Ai Miyashita in Love Live! School Idol Festival All Stars. She also voices Arcana in Goddess of Victory: NIKKE.
Alice Thymefield, the character Murakami was set to portray, is expected to debut in Version 2.1 as part of the Spook Shack faction. She will be the second Physical Anomaly Agent in the game after Jane Doe, and like her, appears to be a rodent-like Thiren.
A replacement voice actor has not yet been announced.
