NFL star and anime fan Jamaal Williams lives out childhood dreams in Japan
By Carl Samson
July 14, 2023
NFL running back Jamaal Williams is realizing his childhood dreams on vacation in Japan.
A trip to remember: Williams, a player for the New Orleans Saints, is a known lover of anime — especially “Naruto.” The self-proclaimed “First Swagg Kazekage” and anime “nerd” is known for sporting “Naruto” headbands and Pikachu hats, playing “Dragon Ball” video games and using inspirational quotes from anime to deal with life’s challenges.
In a recent Instagram post, the 28-year-old announced that he is heading to Japan, drawing excitement from fans. On Monday, the running back shared photos of his trip, which included a visit to the life-sized Gundam robot in Yokohama.
“I literally feel like my childhood is coming in front of me,” he said while watching the 60-foot, 25-ton Gundam. “This is a great day. I have so much feelings happening right now that I never thought I could express. It means so much to me to be out here just enjoying this.”
Beyond entertainment: Williams, who has been watching “Naruto” since he was a child, recently launched the Jamaal Williams Foundation with the aim of helping disadvantaged children. The nonprofit is, of course, inspired by the story of the titular anime character.
“The stories and principles of Naruto have been hugely influential for me, both on and off the field. Naruto faced a lot of adversity and was able to move beyond that and become this powerful force of positivity and kindness,” he told FanNation.
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