Meriol Chan never goes halfway with her cosplay. Every costume and aesthetic that she creates is deliberate and inspired by female characters that already exude something notable even before they utter a word. Whether she is drawing anime characters or game legendaries, Meriol creates her own world of art through accuracy, precision, and a calm certainty that radiates best on screen.
In an exclusive interview with Where Is the Buzz, the actress shares details about the characters she likes visiting, the plans she has already made for cosplaying, and the reasons she prefers not to attend conventions, despite her massive internet presence.
Strong Women, Different Eras, Same Power
In response to questions about characters she would like to explore in the upcoming year, Chan has made one thing quite clear. She is interested in women who exude power.
“I’ve always been drawn more towards strong and powerful characters,” she said.
Her list constitutes a veritable hall of fame of iconic female fighters and strategists from around the world, with character designs taken from classics such as Street Fighter’s Chun Li, Resident Evil’s Ada Wong, Final Fantasy’s Tifa, and Yor Forger from “Spy Family.” Of course, fans may think she has already done these designs, but for Chan, they are only the beginning.
“I’ve already cosplayed them all, but I wanna cosplay their different outfits,” she said.
In Chan’s opinion, one character is definitely not just one look. It is rather an entire world of versions, moods, and transformations. Re-collaging these women in different clothes enables the artist to delve deeper into the characters’ personalities.
Chainsaw Man Has Her in a Hold
One of the long-awaited cosplays of Chan comes from the recent anime craze.
“Since the newest Chainsaw Man movie came out, I’ve been wanting to cosplay Reze from this anime,” she told Where Is The Buzz. “I can’t wait to make it.”
As always, the prep is already happening.
“Already prepared the outfit for the Reze cosplay. It’s just left to record it.”
There is also another Street Fighter favorite on her list.
“I’ve been wanting to cosplay Cammy from Street Fighter for a long time,” she said. “Hopefully I can make it and show my fans some new cosplay.”
For Chan, it’s not only about the character. There’s also timing, energy, and bringing about that which is earned.
Why You Won’t Be Seeing Her at Anime Expo
Anime conventions are where cosplayers get to shine. However, Chan’s involvement with it is complex and honest.
“I’ve always wanted to attend them but just as a visitor, not a content creator,” she said.
The cause might surprise fans watching her success on social media.
“Might be surprising, but I’m a very shy person and prefer the exposure online rather than in real life.”
Chan finds that the internet is the place where she feels most comfortable being creative. Chan is not ruling out conventions completely, but there are no immediate plans.
“I have no plans for now, but if I do, I would definitely let my fans know.”
It’s a reminder that, amidst the bold costumes and viral moments, there is a person who very carefully safeguards her own comfort and boundaries.
DANCING DREAMS AND STAR POWER
Besides her cosplaying, dance videos are another essential component of her brand. Her dance moves are sharp, very expressive, and filled with character. In discussing dream celebrity collaborations, her responses are both appreciative and realistic.
“Jennie from BlackPink. I really love her stage presence and energy. She inspires me a lot,” Chan explained.
Yet she remains realistic.
“But of course, it’s just a dream, haha.”
Whether she does a viral or a cinematic version, Chan’s dancing is about emotion, not just spectacle. Even her dreams are well-thought-out.
