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Voice Actress Aki Toyosaki Limits Activities After Death of Her Husband
Toyosaki will not perform with Sphere on August 30
― Agency MusicRay'n Inc. announced on Friday that voice actress Aki Toyosaki is limiting her entertainment activities after the sudden death of her husband. In July, Toyosaki's husband was rushed to a hospital after a subarachnoid hemorrhage, and died at the hospital. After consulting with Toyosaki, the agency and Toyosaki decided to limit part of he...
Saint Seiya Singer Nobuo Yamada Dies at 61
MAKE-UP vocalist known as NoB was diagnosed 7 years ago with kidney cancer
― Music production and artist management agency MOJOST announced on Wednesday that singer Nobuo Yamada (also known as NoB) has died on August 9 at 1:39 p.m. JST, after a long battle with kidney cancer. He was 61. Yamada's family held a private funeral, and asked fans to refrain from visiting their home to pay their respects an...
LGBTQ+ Organizations, Spaces Cut Ties with Voice Actor Kiba Walker Due to Sexual Allegations
2 voice actors released allegations of Walker sending sexually suggestive messages while they were minors
― Voice actor Korey Solomon posted allegations against voice actor Kiba Walker (also known as "Salem Moon" in drag and LGBTQ+ circles) on July 30, saying that Walker messaged Solomon with sexually suggestive messages when Solomon was only 15 years old, with Walker being 22 years old at the time. ...
Veteran Voice Actor Hee-sun Kang Steps Down From Crayon Shin-chan Role After 26 Years
Actress has undergone dozens of rounds of chemotherapy while continuing her voice acting work
― Hee-sun Kang, the veteran voice actor who has voiced Shin-chan's mother, Misae Nohara, in the Korean dub of Crayon Shin-chan for 26 years, is stepping down from the role due to health reasons. According to Korean animation channel Tooniverse, So-yeon Ahn will take over as the voice of Misae. Although the ...
Voice Actress Akiko Sekine Dies
Voice actress, narrator had roles in Tokimeki Memorial, Aoki Densetsu Shoot, more
― Agency RME announced on Saturday that voice actress Akiko Sekine has died after battling cancer since last year. The agency did not give a date or age of death, but noted her wake and funeral will be held in Tokyo on August 9 and 10. Sekine's husband is voice actor Hidekatsu Shibata. Shibata noted in the announcement ...
Shion Hinamoto Retires from Voice Acting
Hinamoto voiced extra in Tasokare Hotel anime
― Voice actress Shion Hinamoto announced on Thursday that she has retired from voice acting. Hinamoto has voiced an audience member extra in the first episode of the Tasokare Hotel anime. She has also played Campanella in the Ginga Tetsudō no Naka de stage reading. She has also played the character Aki Gotō in the Teranishi Kazuhiro Mystery [Spell] Midori...
Singer, Actor, Voice Actor Tsunehiko Kamijo Dies
Actor had roles in Spirited Away, Porco Rosso, Princess Mononoke; voiced Japanese dub of Sebastian in The Little Mermaid
― Agency KeiSeven Nakamuraya announced on August 1 that singer, actor, and voice actor Tsunehiko Kamijo died on July 22 of senility at a hospital near his home in Nagano Prefecture. He was 85. A funeral limited to close family was held. Kamijo was born in Nagano Prefecture on March...
Voice Actress Mei Shibata Retires from Voice Acting
Shibata had been diagnosed with bronchial asthma last year
― Voice actress Mei Shibata announced on Thursday that she has retired from voice acting. She explained that while she had wanted to do voice work for her entire life, she had been suffering from bronchial asthma since last year, and she could not keep up with the changes in her health. Some of Shibata's notable anime roles include Abigail an...
Junji Ito Inducted Into Eisner Hall of Fame
Horror manga creator has previously won 4 Eisner awards
― The Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards inducted horror manga creator Junji Ito into the Will Eisner Comic Awards Hall of Fame on Friday during San Diego Comic-Con 2025. Viz Media streamed a video response from Ito: The Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards is announcing the winners on Friday. Ito received the nomination on February 28. Voters selec...
Bushiroad Releases Statement After Company, Voice Actress Amane Shindō Receive Threats
Statement comes after rumors started circulating on Thursday alleging Shindō cheated on her partner
― Bushiroad released a statement on Friday regarding recent threats aimed at both it and voice actress Amane Shindō, stating that rumors circulating about the voice actress on social media were "unfounded." Bushiroad stated that on Thursday, after rumors about Shindō's private life circulated on social...
Kadokawa Pulls I May Be a Guild Receptionist Light Novels' Existing Volumes, 2 More Publications Following Illustrator Gaou's Sexual Acts with Minor (Updated)
Gaou admitted to engaging in sexual acts with minor
― Kadokawa released a statement on Wednesday regarding recent reports of illustrator Gaou allegedly admitting to engaging in sexual acts with a minor during a livestream program in Japan. Kadokawa stated that it has confirmed with Gaou himself that the allegation is true. The company announced the measures it is taking regarding Gaou's removal as th...
Otakon 2025 Hosts Tougen Anki Voice Actors Hiroshi Kamiya, Kōtarō Nishiyama
August 8-10 event in Washington D.C. marks Kamiya's 1st appearance outside Japan
― The staff of Otakon announced on Friday that it will host voice actors Hiroshi Kamiya (Noragami, URUSEI YATSURA) and Kōtarō Nishiyama (My New Boss Is Goofy, My Happy Marriage) from the television anime of Yura Urushibara's Tougen Anki: Dark Demon of Paradise manga. Kamiya plays Naito Mudano and Nishiyama plays Jin Koug...
Voice Actress Azumi Waki Reduces Workload to Care for Child's Heart Muscle Disease
Waki's daughter diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy
― Talent agency Haikyo and voice actress Azumi Waki revealed on Wednesday that Waki's daughter is awaiting a heart transplant after being diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy, a heart muscle disease in which the left ventricle of the heart enlarged and weakens, making it harder for the heart to pump blood to the body. Thanks to her daughter's doc...
Kako Kuwahara Appointed as New President, CEO of Nippon TV Music
Kuwahara previously served as Head of International Business, Head of Anime Business at Nippon TV
― Nippon TV announced on Monday that Kako Kuwahara is the new president and CEO of Nippon Television Music Corporation, the music publishing arm of Nippon TV. Nippon Television Music Corporation is a subsidiary of Nippon Television Holdings, Inc. Kuwahara replaces Akihiro Shimizu. Shimizu has been appoin...
Otakon Hosts Cast, Staff of Rock is a Lady's Modesty, The Dark History of the Reincarnated Villainess Anime, More
Voice actress, manga artist, VTuber Sora Tokui; voice actor Shuichiro Umeda also attend event taking place on August 8-10
― The staff of Otakon announced over the past week that this year's event will host the following guests: Voice actor Miyuri Shimabukuro (Carole & Tuesday), animation director Shinya Watada (Mobile Suit Gundam AGE: Memory of Eden), producer Hidetake Nishigaya (The Idaten Deities ...
Creators of King's Maker Webtoon to Appear at Anime NYC Ahead of English Debut
Inklore releases 1st volume of boys-love series on August 26
― Haga and Kang Jiyoung, the creators of the acclaimed BL webtoon King's Maker, will appear at Anime NYC to celebrate the release of the series' first English print edition. Inklore will release the first volume on August 26. Set in a kingdom rife with political intrigue, King's Maker follows Wolfgang Goldenleonard, a rebellious prince for...
Yongseok Jo's Webtoon Series Wind Breaker Halted Amid Tracing Controversy
Creator apologizes, cites years of weekly deadlines as reason for compromising creative standards
― Naver Webtoon announced on Friday it has officially suspended the long-running sports webtoon series Wind Breaker (not to be confused with Satoru Nii's manga of the same name) following allegations of tracing — using near-identical reproductions of images from other works. On July 11, creator Yongseok...
Welcome to the Outcast's Restaurant!, I May Be a Guild Receptionist Novels Replace Illustrator Gaou (Updated)
Gaou removed from other projects after person claiming to be him admits to engaging in sexual acts with a minor
― Publishers Dengeki Bunko and Overlap Bunko reported in separate announcements on July 1 and 2, respectively, that artist Gaou had been removed as the illustrator for Mato Kousaka's I May Be a Guild Receptionist and Yūki Kimikawa's Welcome to the Outcast's Restaurant! light novels series. ...
San Diego Comic-Con to Host Voice Actor Ryūsei Nakao, Animators Masaki Satō & Hidetoshi Ōmori's 1st U.S. Appearances
Guests to hold signings at Ronin Club Collectibles booth
― Ronin Club Collectibles announced on Wednesday that voice actor Ryūsei Nakao (Frieza in Dragon Ball, Mayuri Kurotsuchi in Bleach, Caesar Clown in One Piece), and animators Masaki Satō (Dragon Ball Z, Street Fighter II: The Animated Movie) and Hidetoshi Ōmori (Mobile Suit Gundam Seed, Mobile Suit Gundam: Char's Counterattack film, Inuyasha) wi...
Pokémon Voice Actor, Script Adaptor James Carter Cathcart Dies
Voice of Professor Oak, Gary, Team Rocket's James & Meowth was battling throat cancer
― Voice actress Erica Schroeder reported on Thursday that fellow voice actor and script adaptor James Carter Cathcart has died. Cathcart's wife Martha Jacobi had announced in January 2023 that he had been diagnosed with an advanced form of throat cancer. He then retired from Pokémon anime at the conclusion of the 25...
To Heart Manga Creator Ukyou Takao Dies
Takao drew manga adaptation of To Heart, To Heart Remember my memories, Muv-Luv
― The family of manga creator Ukyou Takao made an announcement through Takao's X/Twitter account on July 5, revealing that Takao died on June 30 due to a heart attack. His family held a private funeral. Takao is perhaps best known for his manga adaptations of the To Heart television anime, as well as its sequel To Heart R...
Voice Actress Atsumi Tanezaki Reduces Workload Due to Health
SPY x FAMILY/Frieren cast member has been following medical professionals' guidance since last year
― The Haikyō cooperative announced on Tuesday that voice actress Atsumi Tanezaki is limiting some of her work activities due to health. Haikyō explained that she had been continuing to work under the guidance of medical professionals since last year, but she decided her recovery must take precedence fo...
Comic Writer, Editor Jim Shooter Dies at 73
DC writer, Marvel editor-in-chief, Transformers' original story writer died due to esophageal cancer
― American comic book writer Mark Waid announced on his official Facebook account that comic writer, editor, and publisher Jim Shooter died on Monday due to esophageal cancer. He was 73. Shooter was born on September 27, 1951 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He began his career writing for DC Comics in 1...
This Monster Wants to Eat Me Anime Reveals Trailer, Visual, U.S. Debut at Otakon
Manga creator Sai Naekawa, manga editor Takumi Kamemaru, more to attend August event in Washington D.C.
― Pony Canyon revealed a new video and visual on Friday for the television anime of Sai Naekawa's This Monster Wants to Eat Me (Watashi o Tabetai, Hito de nashi) manga. The below video has English subtitles that can be toggled on. The anime will have a stage event at Japan Expo Paris on July 5, and...
Live-Action Tsuri Baka Nisshi Film Series' Director Tomio Kuriyama Dies
Kuriyama directed 1st 11 films in 22-film series based on manga
― Shochiku announced on Friday that director Tomio Kuriyama died on Wednesday of malignant lymphoma. He was 84. Kuriyama was born in Tokyo on February 20, 1941. He joined Shochiku in 1965, and made his directorial debut as the assistant director for the Itoshi no Lahaina film. Kuriyama directed the first 11 films in the Tsuri Baka Nisshi...
Live-Action Chihayafuru Sequel Series Reveals More Cast
Yasuko Tomita, Tsutomu Takahashi, Kazuki Namioka, Masahiro Takashima play story's grown-ups
― The official X/Twitter account for Chihayafuru -Meguri-, the new live-action television series inspired by Yuki Suetsugu's Chihayafuru manga, revealed more cast members for the series' growm-up characters on Wednesday. The newly announced cast members are: Yasuko Tomita as Izumi Nakanishi,a classics research...
Voice Actress Marika Kōno Returns After Canceling Appearances Due to Email Threat
Kōno's event appearances delayed or canceled after April email threatening to harm her
― The official X (formerly Twitter) account of the Aoni Production agency announced on Wednesday that voice actress Marika Kōno has decided to resume her public work activities, after receiving an email threatening to harm her in April. The decision to resume her activities is based on the status of the investigati...
Actress, Dark Souls Narrator Pik-Sen Lim Dies at 80
Actress played prominent roles in early British television
― Malaysian-British actress Pik-Sen Lim died at 80, according to an Instagram post from actor Daniel York. Malay Mail reported that she died on June 9. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Daniel York Loh (@danielyorkloh) Lim provided the voice of the narrator in FromSoftware's Dark Souls and Dark Souls 3's opening scenes. The actress...
Voice Actress Yui Ogura Cancels Concert Appearance After Head Concussion
CT scan does not identify major abnormalities, but doctors recommend rest
― The official website for voice actress and singer Yui Ogura announced on Sunday that she has canceled her appearance at the "Sekai Symphony 2025" concert for the Project Sekai: Colorful Stage game later in the day, due to suffering a slight concussion to the head while moving around the previous night. The announcement added ...
Otakon 2025 Hosts A-1 Pictures Staff, Voice Actor Taishi Murata, Character Designer Hidenori Matsubara, More
Grimms Notes composer Taketeru Sunamori, Arifureta singer MindaRyn
―
The staff for Otakon 2025 announced on Thursday the event will host A-1 Pictures' director Shotaro Kitamura and production manager Yutaro Ito (pictured at right), who worked on the production of Makeine: Too Many Losing Heroines!. The event will also host the creative team behind the Too Many Losing Heroines! light novels: novelist...
Takeru Hokazono's Kagurabachi Manga Takes 1-Week Break Due to Author's Health
Manga is scheduled to return on June 23
― The official X (formerly Twitter) account for Takeru Hokazono's Kagurabachi manga announced on Thursday that the manga is taking an unplanned one-week break from this year's 29th issue of Shueisha's Weekly Shonen Jump magazine on Monday due to Hokazono's "sudden illness." The manga is slated to return in the 30th issue, which will release on June 23. Hokazono...
Samantha Kelly No Longer Voices Princess Peach, Toad in Mario Game Franchise
Recently released Mario Kart World game has new voices for characters
― Voice actress Samantha Kelly revealed on her Instagram account on Saturday that Nintendo has replaced her as the voice of Princess Peach and Toad in the Super Mario game franchise as of the release of the Mario Kart World game, which shipped on June 5 for Nintendo Switch 2. View this post on Instagram A post shared by SamanthaKel...
Love Live! Superstar!! Voice Actress Sakura Sakakura Takes Break
Sakakura won open audition in 2023 to play Tomari Onitsuka in Love Live! Superstar!!
― Talent agency StarRise announced on Tuesday that voice actress Sakura Sakakura is taking a break because extreme anxiety is taking a toll on her health. She is focusing on rest and has suspended updates on social media. She has also canceled upcoming appearances in the coming months up to at least August 22. Sakaku...
Voice Actor Mamoru Miyano Leaves Gekidan Himawari Talent Agency, Moves to Ken-On
Miyano's contract with Gekidan Himawari expired on Sunday
― Talent agency Gekidan Himawari announced that voice actor Mamoru Miyano has left the agency with the expiration of his contract, as of Sunday. Miyano then confirmed on his blog post on Monday that he left Gekidan Himawari and he will join talent company Ken-On. Miyano stated that he learned so much at Gekidan Himawari, and he believes that d...
Tower of God Creator SIU to Make 1st U.S. Appearance at Anime Expo
Webtoon Ent. to have booth on show floor for 1st time; host panels, creator signings
― WEBTOON Entertainment is making its debut on the Anime Expo show floor this year, and is also hosting panels, selling merchandise, and bringing webcomics creators to the event for signings. The WEBTOON booth (E-90, Entertainment Hall) will feature daily exclusive merch drops, interactive games, photo ops, and free...
Anime Expo 2025 Hosts Mokumokuren, Shinobu Seguchi, More Guests; Reveals 2 World Premieres
Guests also include: Chiaki Kobayashi, Goro Taniguchi, Makoto Furukawa, Hiroaki Akagi, Daiki Yamashita, George Wada
― The staff for the Anime Expo event announced over the past 10 days that it will host the following guests: Manga creator Mokumokuren and voice actor Chiaki Kobayashi for the world premiere of the anime of Mokumokuren's The Summer Hikaru Died (Hikaru ga Shinda Natsu) manga Shinobu Seg...
Operator of Illegal Webtoon Site OKToon Sentenced to 3 Years in Prison
Court also orders forfeiture of about US$510,000 for copyright infringement
― The operator of OKToon, a major illegal webtoon piracy site, has been sentenced to prison by a South Korean court. On May 26, the Daejeon District Court sentenced the defendant (identified as A) to three years in prison and ordered a forfeiture of about US$510,000 for violating copyright law. A was found guilty of operatin...
Voice Actor Ken Shiroyama Dies at 92
Actor voiced Ebizō in Naruto Shippūden
― Voice actor Ken Shiroyama died of natural cases on April 15. He was 92. His relatives held a private wake and funeral. Some of Shiroyama's best known roles include Ebizō from Naruto Shippūden, Dr. Meisel from the 1998 Spriggan movie, and Gametsu from UFO Senshi Daiapolon. Some of his Japanese dub roles include Mike Novick in 24, Eustace in Courage the Cowardly...
Mrs. Green Apple Wins Artist of the Year at 1st Music Awards Japan
Creepy Nuts, YOASOBI each win 2 more awards at event's Grand Ceremony
― The Japan Culture and Entertainment Industry Promotion Association (CEIPA) announced the major award winners during the Grand Ceremony of its inaugural Music Awards Japan event on Thursday. The major award winners are: Artist Of The Year
Mrs. Green Apple Song Of The Year
"Bling-Bang-Bang-Born" by Creepy Nuts New Artist Of The Yea...
YOASOBI's 'Idol' Wins Best Anime Song, Creepy Nuts' 'Bling-Bang-Bang-Born' Wins 7 Awards at 1st Music Awards Japan
Mashle: Magic and Muscles 2nd season's opening song wins Best Japanese Song, Best Viral Song, Best Japanese Dance Pop Song, Top Japanese Song in Europe, more awards
― The Japan Culture and Entertainment Industry Promotion Association (CEIPA) announced the winners of several categories during the Premiere Ceremony of its inaugural Music Awards Japan event on Wednesday. YOASOBI's "Idol" (from Oshi no K...
NoisyCell Bassist Kiara Dies
Rock band performed themes for Barakamon, Death Parade, Mr. Tonegawa anime
― The official X/Twitter account for the rock band NoisyCell announced on Sunday that the group's bassist Kiara (pictured leftmost in image at right) died on May 13. The announcement did not mention a cause of death. A funeral was held for close family members only. NoisyCell made their major debut in 2014, and then went on hi...
Manga Creator Kunichika Harada Dies at 73 Due to Heart Attack
Harada drew Pro Wrestling Superstar Retsuden, Kimura manga
― Publisher Bungeishunjū announced on Saturday that manga creator Kunichika Harada died on May 7 due to a heart attack. He was 73. His family held a private funeral. Harada was born in 1951 in Fukuoka. He made his manga debut in the winter season supplemental issue for Weekly Shonen Sunday in 1978. He is perhaps best known for drawing the art...
Dragon Ball Daima, Dan Da Dan, Solo Leveling Season 2, More Nominated for 2025 Astra TV Awards
3 anime series along with Fire Force season 3, Lazarus, The Apothecary Diaries season 2 nominated in Best Anime Series category
― The film critics in the Hollywood Creative Alliance (formerly the Hollywood Critics Association) announced the nominees for the 2025 Astra TV Awards on May 15. Nominees for the Best Anime Series are: Dan Da Dan
Dragon Ball DAIMA
Fire Force Season 3
Lazarus
Solo Leveling Se...
SNK CEO Kenji Matsubara Steps Down, Transitions to Advisory Role
SNK's board chairman to serve as interim CEO
― Fighting game company SNK announced on Tuesday that CEO Kenji Matsubara will step down as CEO and "transition to an advisory role." During a transitional period, the company's board has appointed its chairman to serve as interim CEO (the announcement did not say who the chairman was, but SNK's website does list the seven members of its board). SNK appoin...
Webtoon Names Priya Girishankar as Head of Marketing for Global English-Language Platform
Grishankar previously worked at Disney, Los Angeles Times
― The Hollywood Reporter reported on Wednesday that WEBTOON Entertainment has appointed Priya Girishankar as the new head of marketing for its global English-language platform. Based at the company's headquarters in Los Angeles, Girishankar will report directly to Yongsoo Kim, the Chief Strategy Officer and Head of Global WEBTOON. She will le...
22/7 Project's Nagomi Saijō Graduates From Franchise
Voice of Miu Takigawa to graduate after activities of group's 15th single release on July 16
― The official website for the 22/7 idol project announced on Sunday that Nagomi Saijō, who plays Miu Takigawa, is graduating from the franchise. Saijō will graduate from the franchise after the activities for the group's 15th single scheduled for release on July 16. The exact date of Saijō's graduation will ...
Gold House Names Webtoon Execs, Pokémon Company CEO, Crunchyroll President as Part of 100 'Most Impactful Asians' List for 2025
Filmmaker Joon-ho Bong; BLACKPINK members Lisa, Rosé; more make list
― Asia-Pacific non-profit organization Gold House named Webtoon Entertainment founder and CEO Junkoo Kim, Webtoon Entertainment CFO and COO David Lee, The Pokemon Company CEO Tsunekazu Ishihara, Penguin Random House CEO Nihar Malaviya, and Crunchyroll president Rahul Purini part of its Most Impactful Asians A100 list for 2025. Other...
Rap Duo chelmico Reveals Makiko Suzuki's Poor Health, Announces Hiatus
Duo canceled appearances, postponed event due to Suzuki's poor health
― The official X (formerly Twitter) account of rap duo chelmico revealed on Thursday that member Makiko Suzuki has been in poor health recently, and announced that the duo will take a break from activities, as Suzuki focuses on recovering. chelmico apologized to their supporters and related parties for the concern and inconvenience...
Voice Actress Rie Takahashi Resumes Work After Vocal Cord Surgery
Takahashi thanked fans, staff, colleagues for their support
― The 81 Produce talent agency announced on Friday that voice actress Rie Takahashi began gradually resuming her in-studio work that same day, while still being mindful of her health (particularly her throat). Takahashi had announced on April 3 that she would take a one-month break to undergo surgery for vocal cord nodules. The agency again ...
Voice Actress Marika Kōno Delays or Pulls Out of 2 Events After Email Threat
Kōno's agency Aoni Production received April 2 email threatening to harm her
― The official X (formerly Twitter) account of the Aoni Production agency announced on Wednesday that it has postponed or withdrew the appearances of voice actress Marika Kōno at events, after receiving an email threatening to harm Kōno. Aoni stated that it received an April 2 email message threatening to harm Kōno's life an...
Actor Mizuki Itagaki Dies at 24 After Going Missing in January
Actor appeared in live-action Moribito, Keep Your Hands Off Eizouken!, Hot Gimmick, more
― The family of actor Mizuki Itagaki announced on Instagram on Thursday that Itagaki had died from an "unexpected incident." He was 24. The Instagram Story stated that Itagaki had gone missing in late January, and had been suffering from a mental illness since last year. His family had been cooperating with his f...
Japanese Man Sentenced for Illegally Modifying 2nd-Hand Nintendo Switch Units
Transport worker Fumihiri Otobe given 3-year suspended sentence, 500,000 yen fine
― RKC Kōchi Broadcasting reported on Monday that the Kōchi District Court sentenced 58-year-old Fumihiro Otobe — accused of violating the Trademark Act law for illegally modifying Nintendo Switch console units and selling them online — to two years in prison, suspended for three years (if Otobe remains on good behavior ...
Time Magazine Names Yoshiki, Yoshitomo Nara, Hiroyuki Sanada in Top 100 Most Influential People of 2025 List
Magazine honors X Japan singer, Hinagiku no Jinsei illustrator, Shōgun actor
― Time Magazine revealed its list of the world's most influential people of 2025 on Wednesday, and it named Yoshiki as one of the top 100 people. He is in the magazine's "Icons" category. The list honors 100 people who have changed the world. The magazine also named artist Yoshitomo Nara in the "Artists" category and Shōgun ...
Game Developer gz Establishes Sirius Studio With Bloodborne Producer Teruyuki Toriyama
Studio to develop PC, console, VR, XR games
― Osaka-based game developer gz announced on Thursday it has established the wholly owned associated game studio named Studio Sirius, based in Tokyo. The studio was officially established on March 3, and will plan and develop digital games for consoles and PC as well as VR games and XR content. Demon's Souls remake and Bloodborne game producer Teruyuki Tori...
Actor/Director/Writer William Roberts Dies
Roberts had voice roles in Xenoblade Chronicles 2, Appleseed, Patlabor
― The offiical X/Twitter account for The Witcher game series posted on Wednesday that actor, director, and writer William Roberts (a.k.a. Bill Roberts) has died. Roberts' former wife Nicolette Roberts wrote an obituary for him on February 14. Roberts was born in Roseburg, OR on October 18, 1943. He moved to London, England to go t...
Webtoon Entertainment Appoints Aron Levitz as President of Wattpad
Levitz will report directly to Junkoo Kim, CEO and founder of WEBTOON Entertainment
― On April 2, WEBTOON Entertainment announced it has appointed Aron Levitz as president of Wattpad Corporation, its global web novel subsidiary. Levitz will step down from his concurrent position as president of Wattpad WEBTOON Studios Corp. and will now focus solely on Wattpad. He will report directly to Junkoo Kim,...
Alberta's Animethon Hosts ClariS in August for Group's 1st N. American Performance
3-member unit restarted activities in January
― The Animethon event located in Edmonton, Alberta announced on Thursday that female singing unit ClariS will make their North American performance debut at the event's MusicFes. Animethon takes place at the Edmonton Convention Centre in Canada on August 8-10. ClariS had announced in January that the unit had restarted activities and had added two new mem...
Voice Actress Rie Takahashi Takes 1-Month Break for Surgery
Takahashi to have surgery for vocal cord nodules
― Voice actress Rie Takahashi announced on her X (formerly Twitter) account on Thursday that she will take a one-month break to undergo surgery for vocal cord nodules. Takahashi apologized to her supporters for causing concerns, but she assured fans she is in good health. Takahashi also expressed her gratitude to the people who helped with her schedule...
Voice Actor William Bassett Dies at 89
Actor provided voices in Ah! My Goddess: The Movie, Mobile Suit Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory, Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro
― Voice actor William Bassett died at 89 on February 9, according to an obituary posted on the Dignity Memorial website. The actor was known for his role in ads for the Whataburger restaurant franchise. Bassett was born in 1935 and acted in numerous roles across televisio...
Voice Actress Fairouz Ai Returns From Partial Hiatus Under New Agency
Ai works under Maus agency after hiatus to recover from post-traumatic stress disorder
― Voice actress Fairouz Ai announced on Tuesday that she left the talent agency Raccoon Dog, with which she was affiliated for three years, on March 31, and has moved to Mausu Promotion on Tuesday (April 1, which is the start of the Japanese fiscal year). Ai also announced that restrictions on her activities has be...
Game, Anime Composer Yoko Shimomura Receives BAFTA Fellowship
Shimomura has composed for Kingdom Hearts, Street Fighter franchises, more
― The British Academy Film Awards (BAFTA) announced on Monday that video game and anime composer Yoko Shimomura will receive the BAFTA Fellowship at the 21st annual BAFTA Games Awards on April 8. The event will take place at the Queen Elizabeth Hall in London and will be livestreamed on BAFTA's YouTube and Twitch channels. Shi...
Live-Action City Hunter Film Actor Richard Norton Dies at 75
Australian martial artist also served as fight choreographer, stuntman for many films
― Judy Green — the wife of Hollywood actor, trainer, stuntman, and choreographer Richard Norton — announced on Instagram on Saturday that Norton had died. He was 75. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Richard Norton (@rjnorton70) Norton was born in January 1950 in Australia. He was a martial artist who was...
Production of Webtoon-Based Live-Action Thriller Series Dear X Delayed Due to Injury of Actor Do-hoon Kim
Actor was diagnosed with a 24-week recovery period
― The filming of the live-action series Dear X has been put on hold after actor Do-hoon Kim suffered a serious injury on set. According to Korean entertainment media outlet Sports Chosun, Kim fractured his left forearm while practicing motorcycle riding during a break in filming last week. The accident occurred as he attempted a short ride and lost ...
Transformers, Star Wars Voice Actor Clive Revill Dies at 94
Actor was also veteran of Broadway, Royal Shakespeare Company
― The Hollywood Reporter reported on Wednesday that actor and voice actor Clive Revill died on March 11 after a battle with dementia. He was 94. Revill was born in Wellington, New Zealand in April 1930, and was recruited to be an actor by Laurence Olivier. He is perhaps most famous for his role as the original voice of Emperor Palpatine in...
Votoms, God Mars Voice Actress Yōko Kawanami Dies
Dr. Slump & Arale-chan, Marmalade Boy voice actress was 67
― Talent agency Aoni Production announced on Thursday that voice actress Yōko Kawanami died on March 18 of peritoneal metastasis. She was 67. Due to the wishes of her family, her wake and funeral were held for close relatives only. Kawanami was born in Kanagawa Prefecture on April 22, 1957. Kawanami is perhaps best known as voicing Coconna Va...
Risa Kubota Returns to Voice Acting Under New Stage Name Risa Hoshina
Hoshina to have business partnership with Wave Master sound production company
― Sound production company Wave Master announced on Tuesday that voice actor Risa Kubota has returned to voice acting under the stage name Risa Hoshina, and will have a business partnership with Wave Master. (Compared to her previous name, the "Risa" in her new stage name has the same pronunciation, but a different first k...
Live-Action One Piece Series' Showrunner Matt Owens Exits Show
Owens leaves after production of 2nd season to work on his mental health
― Showrunner of the live-action series of Eiichiro Oda's One Piece manga Matt Owens announced on his Instagram account on Saturday that he is leaving the show after finishing production on the second season to work on his mental health. He stated that he will "come back refreshed for the new adventures that await." View this pos...
Singer/Actor Isao Sasaki Hospitalized for Acute Exacerbation of Interstitial Pneumonia
Sasaki to not return to work until end of April
― Singer and voice actor Isao Sasaki revealed on Monday that he had been hospitalized for acute exacerbation of interstitial pneumonia. After returning from Thailand in mid-January, Sasaki was not feeling well so he went to the doctor. The doctor called an ambulance and had him admitted to the hospital, since his blood oxygen level was very low. He has ...
Voice Actor Shiki Aoki Goes on Hiatus Due to Health
The IDOLM@STER Cinderella Girls cast member sees a doctor after feeling unwell, advised to rest for a while
― Talent agency Kawadon Entertainment announced on Monday that voice actor Shiki Aoki has gone on hiatus due to health reasons. The company's X/Twitter post explained that Aoki has been seeing a doctor because he was feeling unwell, and he has been advised to rest for the time being. The compan...
BTS Singer Jin Hosts Variety Show With Webtoon Artist Kian, Comedian Ye-eun Ji
Series following 3 people as they operate B&B on Ulleungdo island debuts on Netflix on April 8
― On March 12, Netflix released a minute-long teaser for Kian's Bizarre B&B, an unscripted variety show featuring webtoon artist/entertainer Kian, BTS member Jin, and SNL Korea comedian Ye-eun Ji. The series follows the three as they operate a bed-and-breakfast on Ulleungdo island, navigating the challenge...
Voice Actor Showtaro Morikubo Also Steps Down from Arknights Game Role
Voice actor stepped down from Genshin Impact game earlier this week
― The official Japanese X (formerly Twitter) account of Chinese developer Hypergryph's Arknights mobile game announced on Friday that voice actor Showtaro Morikubo will step down from the role of Elysium in the game due to "various circumstances." Hypergryph apologized to fans and stated that it will announce a replacement of the exi...
Voice Actor Dave Mallow Dies at 76
Mallow voiced Digimon's Angemon, Power Rangers' Baboo/intro announcer
― Voice actress Dorothy Fahn posted on X/Twitter on Tuesday that her fellow voice actor Dave Mallow has died. TMZ reported that Mallow died on Tuesday after being in hospice care at the MonteCedro Senior Living Community in Altadena, California. He was 76. Mallow has played numerous characters in the Digimon series, including Angem...
CODA Works with China to Arrest Chinese Piracy Website Owner
Suspect had run anime piracy website since 2022
― Japan's Content Overseas Distribution Association (CODA) announced on Friday that the Shijiazhuang Public Security Bureau arrested a man from the Liaoning Province in China on suspicion of running the Zzzfun piracy website. The website violates copyright law by illegally distributing anime and other content to users in China through its website and ap...
Naver Webtoon Continues Sponsoring 'Hyun-se Lee Cartoon Creation Camp' for Aspiring Creators
Outstanding works may be serialized via Naver Webtoon
― Naver Webtoon announced on March 4 that it will once again officially sponsor the "Hyun-se Lee Cartoon Creation Camp" this year, continuing its support for aspiring webtoon creators. The camp was first launched in 2001 by Doo-ho Lee, a professor at Sejong University at the time, as a so-called "hell camp" designed to immerse students completely...
Anime NYC Hosts Rooster Fighter Manga Creator Shu Sakuratani, Anime Adaptation's Screenwriter Hiroshi Seko
Sakuratani, Seko attend 4-day event on August 21-24
― The staff of Anime NYC announced on Saturday that it will host Rooster Fighter (Niwatori Fighter) manga author Shu Sakuratani, and the upcoming anime adaptation's screenwriter Hiroshi Seko at this year's event. 🗽GUEST ANNOUNCEMENT🗽Shu Sakuratani is a talented and innovative Japanese manga artist and creator, best known for his acclaimed series "Ro...
Japan's Agency for Cultural Affairs Honors Gōshō Aoyama, Masahiro Sakurai, Kiyotaka Oshiyama, Katsura Hashino
Detective Conan creator, Super Smash Bros. director win Art Encouragement Prizes
― The Japanese government's Agency for Cultural Affairs awarded Detective Conan manga creator Gōshō Aoyama and Super Smash Bros. game series director and game design videos creator Masahiro Sakurai with the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology's Art Encouragement Prize for the 75th annual awards...
Anime Producer Kouichirou Itou Sentenced to 4 Years in Prison
your name., Weathering With You, Suzume producer charged with obscene acts against 3 minors
― The below article contains references to child sexual assault. The Wakayama District Court has sentenced on Friday 53-year-old anime producer Kouichirou Itou to four years in prison for committing nonconsensual sexual intercourse with three minor girls, and knowingly exchanging money with a 15-year-old girl ...
Junji Ito Nominated for Eisner Hall of Fame
Late manga creator Shigeru Mizuki pre-selected to enter Will Eisner Comic Awards Hall of Fame this year
― The organizers of the Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards announced on Friday that they have nominated horror manga creator Junji Ito for the Will Eisner Comic Awards Hall of Fame. Voters will select which six of this year's 18 nominees will be the latest to join the Hall of Fame. The organizers al...
D4DJ Voice Actress Himari Hazuki to Retire From Entertainment Industry
Cast member in Rebirth, Teppen, Tōgane! Omatsuri-Bu decides on new path in life
― The talent agency Ace Crew Entertainment announced on Saturday that voice actress Himari Hazuki will retire from the entertainment industry on March 31. The agency explained that she decided to take a step towards a new life. The company added that it will notify fans on what will happen with her official fan club "Hima...
Former Gainax Member, Dragon Quest Sword Designer Jun Tamatani Dies
Worked at Gainax predecessor General Products, continued working with Gainax on Princess Maker
― Science fiction writer Hiroe Suga reported on her X (formerly Twitter) account on Monday that designer and illustrator Jun Tamatani has died. Tamatani was one of the first employees at General Products, the store founded by Toshio Okada and Yasuhiro Takeda to sell merchandise, create garage kits, and lice...
Transformers Films' Writer, Producer Roberto Orci Dies at 51
Orci co-wrote 2007 Transformers, 2009 sequel, 2009 Star Trek reboot, Transformers Prime
― Screenwriter and producer Roberto Orci died on Tuesday, February 25 due to a kidney disease. He was 51. Orci co-wrote the 2007 Transformers film with Alex Kurtzman and John Rogers, and also co-wrote the 2009 sequel Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen with Ehren Kruger and Alex Kurtzman. He co-created the Transfo...
Nobuo Yamada Reveals Cancer Diagnosis, Performance Cancellations
Saint Seiya singer known as NoB was diagnosed 7 years ago with kidney cancer
― Singer Nobuo Yamada (also known as NoB) revealed on Tuesday that he was diagnosed with kidney cancer seven years ago. Yamada has been continuing his activities despite his diagnosis. However, due to health reasons, he has decided to cancel his "Saint Seiya 'Pegasus Fantasy' Grand Finale' performance in Mexico on March 29-3...
Gundam Creator Yoshiyuki Tomino, Actress/Singer Chieko Baisho Invited to Join Japan Art Academy
Tomino, Baisho among 15 new Japan Art Academy members to be appointed on March 1
― The Japan Art Academy revealed its 15 new members on February 20, which includes Mobile Suit Gundam creator Yoshiyuki Tomino and singer/actress Chieko Baisho. The new members will be appointed by Japan's Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology on March 1. The Japan Art Academy is a national inst...
Blackpink's LISA to Release Comic Project
56-page limited-edition comic features artwork by Japanese artist MINOMIYABI
― LISA of BLACKPINK is preparing for her solo debut with the release of her album ALTER-EGO on February 28. Earlier this month, she rereleased the single "Born Again," featuring Doja Cat and RAYE, signaling the start of her solo career. Alongside the album, LISA is launching ALTER-EGO: THE OFFICIAL COMIC in collaboration wi...
Sae-ron Kim's Final Film Based on Webtoon to Release Later This Year
Live-action project based on Every Day We webtoon to include both theatrical film, series
― The late actress Sae-ron Kim's final film, Every Day We, is set for a theatrical release as early as this fall. Director Min-jae Kim confirmed in an interview with Yonhap News Agency (YNA) on Thursday that the film is currently in the editing process and is expected to be released either in the fall or winter...
Travel Writer, Tetsuko no Tabi Manga Writer Hirohiko Yokomi Dies at 63
"Ultimate railway otaku" visited every train station in Japan
― Shogakukan announced on Friday that travel writer and Tetsuko no Tabi manga storywriter Hirohiko Yokomi died of acute heart failure on Wednesday. He was 63. A funeral was held for close relatives only. Yokomi is perhaps best known as the person who visited every train station in Japan. He had previously visited all of the JR stations in ...
Slow Loop Manga Goes on Hiatus While Creator Maiko Uchino Undergoes Breast Cancer Treatment
Manga will move from Manga Time Kirara Forward to Comic Fuz service when it returns
― The official X (formerly Twitter) account for Houbunsha's Manga Time Kirara magazine revealed on Friday that Maiko Uchino's Slow Loop manga is going on hiatus. When the manga resumes, it will move from Manga Time Kirara Forward to the Comic Fuz app and website. Houbunsha will reveal the manga's resumption date in Ma...
Dance Dance Danseur Manga Goes on Hiatus After Author's 2nd Surgery
George Asakura confirms she was safely discharged from hospital after 2nd craniotomy surgery
― Manga creator George Asakura stated on X (formerly Twitter) on February 14 that she was recently safely discharged from the hospital after a second craniotomy. She added due to that her Dance Dance Danseur manga will go back on hiatus for a while. Asakura joked that she "looks cool like Frankenstein." Asaku...
Hakusensha Founding Member, Manga Magazine Editor Nobumasa Konagai Dies at 94
Bessatsu Margaret editor-in-chief died of old age on February 2
― Publisher Hakusensha's founding member and manga magazine editor Nobumasa Konagai died of old age on February 2. There was a funeral for close relatives. He was 94. Konagai was born in 1930 in Shizuoka prefecture. He joined Shueisha and worked as an editor before becoming one of the founding members of Hakusensha in 1973. He served as ...
Actress Sae-ron Kim Found Dead, Investigation Underway
Police reported on Monday they believe her death was a suicide
― Warning: this article contains statements about a possible suicide. If you or anyone you know is suicidal or having suicidal thoughts, please reach out to a suicide prevention organization in your country. In the United States, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available by calling 988. In Korea, the suicide prevention help li...
Anime Figure Manufacturer Kaiyodo's Founder Osamu Miyawaki Dies at 96
Miyawaki died of old age on February 16
― Osamu Miyawaki, founder of anime figure manufacturer Kaiyodo, died of old age while undergoing medical treatment at a facility in Osaka on February 16 at 9:31 p.m. JST. He was 96. There will be a farewell ceremony for Miyawaki for close relatives at a later date. Miyawaki was born in Kochi Prefecture on May 20, 1928. In 1964, he founded Kaiyodo as a plastic m...
Voice Actor Atomu Shimojo Dies
Shimojo died on January 29 due to health issues from acute subdural hematoma
― Talent agency Tom Project announced last Thursday that actor Atomu Shimojo died on January 29 at a hospital in Tokyo.. He had been diagnosed with acute subdural hematoma in September 2023, and his health had worsened before his passing. He was 78. There was a funeral for close relatives. Shimojo was born on November 26, 19...
Nostalgiacon in Anaheim, CA Hosts Romi Park as Guest
Fullmetal Alchemist, Naruto, Attack on Titan voice actress participates in signings at event taking place on June 6-8
― Nostalgiacon's Instagram account announced on Tuesday that voice actress Romi Park will attend the convention in Anaheim, CA from June 6 though June 8. The actress will be participating in signings and autograph tickets are available on the event's website for US$200 each. Park's ma...
Look Back Anime Film Director, Producers Win Fujimoto Award
Cells at Work, Let's Go Karaoke, Oshi no Ko, Golden Kamuy also honored
― The Japan Academy Film Prize Association announced the winners of the 48th annual Japan Academy Film Prizes in a ceremony at the Grand Prince Hotel New Takanawa in Tokyo on Friday. Look Back won both the Best Animated Film award and the Creative Contribution award for its key and in-between animation staff. Look Back competed ag...
Live-Action Street Fighter Actor Peter Navy Tuiasosopo Dies
Tuiasosopo played E. Honda in 1994 live-action Street Fighter movie
― Actor Peter Navy Tuiasosopo died on Monday in the early morning. His son Manoah Peter Tuiasosopo revealed the news on Facebook, and he told TMZ that his father had died of heart complications in Phoenix, AZ. He was 61. Tuiasopopo played E. Honda in the 1994 live-action Street Fighter movie. He was the Fuji Announcer in the 2008 liv...
Grave of the Fireflies Composer Michio Mamiya Dies at 95
Mamiya also composed score for other Isao Takahata works Gauche the Cellist, Horus - Prince of the Sun
― Asahi Shimbun reported on December 12 that composer Michio Mamiya died on December 11, 2024 due to pneumonia. He was 95. His family held a vigil on December 17, and a funeral on December 18. Born in Hokkaido, Mamiya studied at the Tokyo Music School (the modern-day Tokyo University of the Arts) un...
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