Rei Ami Reflects on Life-Changing Success of Animated Hit

Singer Rei Ami became visibly emotional while discussing the profound impact that voicing a character in the 2025 animated film "KPop Demon Hunters" has had on her career and personal life.

Speaking outside the "TODAY" show on Friday, July 17, 2026, Rei Ami reflected on how the movie's enduring popularity has transformed her trajectory in the entertainment industry. The artist provided one of the three singing voices for the fictional group HUNTR/X in the film, specifically voicing the character Zoey.

"So proud, so eternally grateful for the fans and the community we built," Rei Ami told TMZ.com, her voice catching with emotion as she discussed the film's reception more than a year after its release.

The success represents a dramatic reversal of fortune for the artist, who has previously acknowledged that she came close to abandoning her music career entirely just months before securing the role. The film's impact on her professional life has been substantial, with the soundtrack earning double platinum certification.

Looking ahead, Rei Ami confirmed that fans can expect new solo material in the near future. A new single and full album are in the works, along with touring plans that she emphasized would be "FOR THE FANS" — echoing a catchphrase from the HUNTR/X characters.

The artist is also expanding her television presence through a collaboration with actor Ken Jeong, who voiced the character Bobby in "KPop Demon Hunters." The pair will co-host "KPop Shark Heroes" for Shark Week on the Discovery Channel, reuniting their characters Zoey and Bobby for the special programming event.

The animated film's sustained popularity demonstrates the lasting appeal of its blend of K-pop music and supernatural adventure storytelling. For Rei Ami, the project has provided not only commercial success but also a renewed sense of purpose in her artistic career after a period of uncertainty about her future in the music industry.