Below, we remember some of the creative talents, voice actors, and musicians who have passed away this year, leaving a remarkable legacy for Japanese culture and the world.
Akira Toriyama (1955 – March 2024)
The creator of Dragon Ball, Toriyama is a legendary figure in the manga and anime world. His works, especially Dragon Ball, have become a global phenomenon, impacting millions of fans and artists over the decades. His passing leaves an irreplaceable void in the hearts of anime enthusiasts.
Atsuko Tanaka (1962 – August 2024)
A renowned voice actress, Tanaka was famous for her roles as Konan in Naruto, Kusanagi in Ghost in the Shell, and Hanami in Jujutsu Kaisen. Not only did she voice memorable characters, but she also brought depth and unique qualities to her performances. Her voice will forever resonate in the hearts of anime fans.
Shigemi Ikeda (1954 – October 2024)
A leading figure in the art of animation, Ikeda was the art director for iconic works such as One Punch Man, My Hero Academia, Afro Samurai, Overlord, Inuyasha, and Gundam. Winner of an Emmy award, Shigemi Ikeda was a pioneer in creating visually captivating animation, elevating anime to new heights of quality and earning global recognition.
Nobuyo Oyama (1933 – September 2024)
Nobuyo Oyama was the iconic voice of Doraemon, a character that has left a significant mark on the hearts of millions of Japanese and global fans. With her distinctive voice and charming personality, Oyama created a beloved cat robot that remains one of the most recognized voices in anime history.
Emi Shinohara (1963 – September 2024)
A talented voice actress, Shinohara was known for her roles as Kushina Uzumaki in Naruto and Sailor Jupiter in Sailor Moon. Her performances brought vibrant energy and emotion to her characters, leaving a lasting impact on many generations of anime fans.
Ryo Kono (19?? – October 2024)
Ryo Kono, whose real name is Hiromi Kono, was born and raised in Tokyo. As an art director recognized for works like Mob Psycho 100, Devilman Crybaby, Tokyo Ghoul, and Psycho-Pass, Kono was a visionary artist who elevated many modern works. His unique artistic style and innovative approach continued to inspire new talents in the industry.
Noriko Ohara (1935 – July 2024)
Noriko Ohara was the voice of Nobita in Doraemon, another significant character in anime history. Her ability to portray endearing characters contributed to her becoming a legendary figure in the voice acting community in Japan.
Sayuri (1996 – September 2024)
A singer known for her performances in anime series like Lycoris Recoil, Erased, and My Hero Academia, Sayuri’s unique voice and emotional delivery have made a significant mark in modern anime music.
The loss of these remarkable individuals serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact they have had on the anime industry and our lives. Their works and legacies will continue to inspire future generations, keeping the spirit of the anime culture alive and celebrating the characters we adore. From Akira Toriyama to Sayuri, 2024 has gifted us a memorable legacy that will remain etched in the hearts of fans worldwide, highlighting the contributions they made to manga, anime, and global culture.
