Avatar: The Last Airbender -- The Promise -- Fan Dub, Additional Cast
pokejedservo for Avatar Roku
The Roku character who appears in this story is the spirit of a man who died 100 years earlier -- probably in his 60s or 70s. Roku was born in the Fire Nation, grew up as the best friend of future Fire Lord Sozin, and became the Avatar prior to Aang. He has deep regrets about failing to take action to end the war started by Sozin -- which continued for over a century and, though officially over at this point, is still a source of conflict. Avatar Roku is wise and calm, but still troubled by decisions he made during his life.
This video gives an extensive history of Avatar Roku: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aelx1b2IFcU
In the TV Series, Roku is voiced by James Garrett, probably in his 60s at the time he recorded his voice work. You can hear an example in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cs95gaAK7io
(Avatar Roku is describing his relationship with Fire Lord Sozin -- specifically how he regrets not KILLING Sozin to end a series of tragic events before they happened 100 years ago.)
He was like a brother to me. But because of him, the world burned. When you are in a position of power, you must put the needs of the world above your own. Zuko, at one time at least, understood this.
(Avatar Roku is advising Aang to kill Zuko, despite their friendship -- and despite the fact that Zuko is Roku's great-grandson)
The Avatar must hold the world above his own nation, his own friends...even his own family. I cannot put into words how much it pains me to advocate for the end of my own great-grandson.
(Avatar Roku continues to try to convince Aang to take action against his friend for the sake of the world.)
To succeed where I failed, you must hold the world above all else! Empty yourself, Aang, and contemplate the world. Then you will understand.
