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Adi Shankar Reveals the Powerful Story Behind Casting Netflix’s Devil May Cry – Including Kevin Conroy’s Final Role
For Adi Shankar, Devil May Cry isn’t just another video game adaptation—it’s a personal passion project that has taken years of careful planning and emotional investment. Now, as the anime series gears up for its Netflix debut, Shankar is pulling back the curtain on how he brought the cast together—especially the inclusion of legendary actor Kevin Conroy in his final role.
At CinemaCon 2025, Shankar spoke candidly about the emotional journey behind the scenes, sharing a story that goes far beyond just casting voices. He revealed how much the Devil May Cry series means to him personally, and why Kevin Conroy’s presence in the show holds such deep emotional weight.
A Childhood Dream Turned Reality
Shankar grew up playing the Devil May Cry games, admiring their fast-paced action, gothic aesthetic, and rich storytelling. When he finally got the opportunity to adapt the series into an anime, he knew it couldn’t just be flashy—it had to honor the spirit of the franchise and connect with fans on an emotional level.
He described the casting process as “deeply spiritual,” emphasizing that it wasn’t just about finding voices that fit. It was about building a team that understood the world, the characters, and the themes of the show—particularly the emotional struggles and family dynamics that have defined Devil May Cry for over two decades.
Bringing Kevin Conroy on Board: A Bittersweet Milestone
One of the most powerful moments in the casting process was reaching out to Kevin Conroy, the iconic voice of Batman for more than 30 years. Shankar had always admired Conroy, calling him “a voice that shaped my childhood.”
The two had the chance to work together on the anime, and Conroy recorded his role shortly before his passing in 2022. For Shankar, it was an unforgettable experience.
“Working with Kevin was more than a career highlight—it was deeply emotional. Knowing this would be his final performance gave the scenes a weight I’ll never forget,” Shankar said.
He added that Conroy brought depth, vulnerability, and a sense of legacy to the character he portrayed—something that fans will likely recognize the moment they hear his voice in the show.
Staying True to the Franchise with a Fresh Vision
While the anime will follow the tone and world of the original games, Shankar is also adding his signature storytelling style—something fans of his previous work (Castlevania, The Guardians of Justice) will recognize. He promised that the show will deliver epic action, emotional arcs, and complex characters—a true love letter to fans of the franchise.
He also reassured longtime fans that the anime is being made with respect for the game’s lore, but with the freedom to explore deeper psychological themes, especially around identity, purpose, and inner conflict—core elements of Dante’s character journey.
For a glimpse of the series, you can watch the official trailer below:
