Layla Serizawa—also known by her stage name Reira—is one of the most memorable characters in the beloved anime series NANA. As the lead vocalist of the wildly successful rock band Trapnest, she’s not just admired for her ethereal beauty but also celebrated for her angelic, almost otherworldly singing voice. Fans are consistently moved by the emotional depth in her performances, and it’s no surprise that her music resonates so deeply with audiences. Behind the spotlight, though, Layla Serizawa is a quiet and introspective soul, often described as shy and reserved. Despite her fame, she carries herself with a kind of fragile grace that makes her all the more compelling.
Now, when we look into Reira’s past, things get a bit more mysterious. It’s known that she was adopted at a young age by Yasushi Takagi, who would later become Trapnest’s producer. Growing up, she lived a life filled with luxury and privilege, surrounded by the glitz and glamour of the entertainment world. But with that came immense pressure—the kind that can weigh heavily on someone as sensitive as Layla Serizawa. Her delicate personality often finds itself at odds with the cutthroat nature of the industry, leaving her feeling isolated and emotionally exposed. Still, even in the face of these challenges, her love for music never wavers.
In fact, you could say that music is her sanctuary. Every song she sings feels like a piece of her soul laid bare. There’s a haunting quality to her voice—one that lingers long after the final note—that has played a huge role in Trapnest’s rise to stardom. And while her relationships within the band are layered and complex, her bond with Takumi Ichinose, the lead guitarist, stands out. They’ve shared a deep connection since childhood, and their dynamic adds another emotional layer to Reira’s story.
All in all, Layla Serizawa is a character who leaves a lasting impression. Her journey through fame, heartache, and self-discovery speaks to fans on a personal level. She embodies the struggles of staying true to oneself in an industry that often demands conformity. And honestly, it’s hard not to root for her.
From a psychological standpoint, Layla Serizawa seems to fit the ISFP personality type—Introverted, Sensing, Feeling, Perceiving. She’s clearly introverted, often retreating inward when overwhelmed, relying on her inner compass rather than external validation. Her creativity shines through her music, and she places great value on authenticity and emotional honesty. As a feeler, Reira is deeply attuned to her own emotions and those of others, which sometimes makes it difficult for her to navigate conflicting expectations. She wants to stay true to herself, yet she also cares deeply about the people around her, especially those in Trapnest.
Being a perceiver means she’s flexible and open-ended in her approach to life. She doesn’t thrive on rigid schedules or strict plans—in fact, she might even put things off until the last minute. But here’s the thing: when inspiration strikes, she delivers something truly special. That spontaneous burst of creativity? It’s part of what makes Layla Serizawa such a unique artist.
When we shift to the Enneagram, Reira appears to align closely with Type Four—the Individualist. Fours crave meaning, authenticity, and emotional depth, all of which define Layla Serizawa’s character. She often feels different from those around her, like she doesn’t quite belong, and that sense of separateness fuels both her artistry and her inner turmoil. Her emotions run deep—sometimes too deep—and she experiences loneliness and self-doubt in ways that feel painfully real. Whether it’s breaking down during a live performance or confronting Takumi after feeling betrayed, her emotional intensity is undeniable.
Sure, personality typing isn’t an exact science, and no single label can fully capture someone as nuanced as Layla Serizawa. But based on her actions, reactions, and inner world, the ISFP and Enneagram Four labels do seem to fit remarkably well. Both highlight her sensitivity, her creative brilliance, and her constant search for identity and connection.
So, if you’re a fan of NANA, you probably already know how impactful Layla Serizawa’s presence is. Even with her quiet demeanor, she commands attention—not because she seeks it, but because her authenticity cuts through the noise. In a world full of pretense, Reira remains unapologetically herself. And that, perhaps more than anything, is why her story continues to move people years after the series first aired.
Layla Serizawa may be fictional, but the emotions she represents are very real. And in that way, she’s more than just a character—she’s a reflection of the quiet strength found in vulnerability.
I don't want to sing about happy things, or sad things. I want to sing about living things.