中なかの人ひと

expression, noun

person inside a cartoon body suit

Refers to the performer wearing a mascot or character costume, especially at theme parks or events. Often used in fan discussions about who is inside a famous character suit.

• ディズニーランドのミッキーの中なかの人ひとは誰だれだろう。

  I wonder who the person inside Mickey at Disneyland is.

expression, noun

voice actor (of a particular character)

By extension from the costume sense, used for the voice actor behind an animated character, especially in anime and game fan communities.

• このアニメの主しゅ人じん公こうの中なかの人ひとは新しん人じん声せい優ゆうらしい。

  Apparently the voice actor for the main character of this anime is a newcomer.

expression, noun

insider; person on the inside

Slang for someone with inside knowledge or connections, often used in corporate, political, or online community contexts. Carries a slightly secretive or conspiratorial tone.

• 中なかの人ひとの話はなしだと、来らい月げつ大おおきな発はっ表ぴょうがあるらしい。

  According to an insider, there's going to be a big announcement next month.