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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...
Voice Actor Megumi Hayashibara Sparks Controversy With Recent Blog Post
Hayashibara: “Japan's taxes should go 'first' to those who pay them (including foreigners living in Japan who pay taxes, of course)”
― Japanese news outlet Jcast News reported on Monday that voice actor Megumi Hayashibara came under fire for a June 8 blog post. The report said that Hayashibara initially wrote “I had a fun trip to our neighboring country, Korea,” “There were some things Korean and Jap...
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...
Voice Actor Nobunaga Shimazaki Is Now a Dad
Voice of 2019 Fruits Basket's Yuki Sōma announced his 1st child's birth
― Nobunaga Shimazaki, voice of the 2019 Fruits Basket's Yuki Sōma, announced the birth of his first child on Sunday. The voice actor stated, “I am happy to announce a new life has been born.” I am happy to announce a new life has been born.
Thanks to the support of everyone who has been supporting me, Nobunaga Shimazaki, I am ab...
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 Kosuke Kuwano Announces Marriage
Voice of My Hero Academia's Yuga Aoyama marries partner outside entertainment
― Kosuke Kuwano, the voice actor of My Hero Academia's Yuga Aoyama, announced on Friday that he had gotten married. The voice actor thanked his fans and colleagues and noted his wife is a non-celebrity. To everyone,
Thank you for your continued support.
I would like to announce that I, Kosuke Kuwano, have married a non-cel...
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...
Voice Actor Haruka Tomatsu Announces Birth of 2nd Child
Voice of Sword Art Online's Asuna Yuki announced 2nd child with birthday cake photo
― On Wednesday, voice actor Haruka Tomatsu announced she had given birth to her second child on her blog. The voice actor stated, "…Even though there were some hectic moments because the birth came earlier than expected, I've forgotten all about it because of the lack of sleep, fun, and discoveries I've made every day...
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...
Voice Actor Yui Ishikawa Announces Birth of 1st Baby
Voice of Attack on Titan's Mikasa announces birth with her newborn's footprint
― Voice actor Yui Ishikawa announced on her X (formerly Twitter) account on Sunday, Mother's Day, that she had given birth to her first child. The voice actor included a handwritten message with a footprint of her child to her fans, supporters, and colleagues with the post. いつも応援してくださっている皆さまへ、ご報告です。 pic.twitter.com/Q1kQlGE...
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...
Shoko Nakagawa Announces Pregnancy on Birthday
The multi-talent's wish to have a child has finally come true.
― Multi-talent Shoko Nakagawa announced on her website and social media that she is pregnant on Monday — which happens to be Children's Day and her 40th birthday. “Shokotan” revealed the news with a handwritten letter to her fans, supporters, and colleagues:
To everyone who always supports me
To all the people who have taken care of me
...
Shoko Nakagawa Celebrates Early Birthday with Dragon Quest Creator
Mother-daughter voice actors Keiko Han & Megumi Han also celebrated Shokotan's 40th
― Multi-talent Shoko Nakagawa reported on Thursday she celebrated an early birthday with some famous friends. In attendance at Nakagawa's small party were Dragon Quest creator Yuji Horii and mother-daughter voice actors Keiko Han and Megumi Han. Yay! I got to celebrate🎉 my birthday early surrounded by all the people I...
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 Actor Chinami Hashimoto Announces Marriage
Voice of Princess Connect! Re:Dive's Eriko celebrates news with fans, fellow cast members
― Voice actor Chinami Hashimoto announced on Thursday that she had gotten married. The voice actor offered a message to his fans and supporters: 結婚のご報告です🕊️ pic.twitter.com/XVKtyViRpz— 橋本ちなみ (@chinami_hsmt) May 1, 2025 Marriage announcement.🕊️ To everyone,
Thank you for your warm support.
I am happy to announce...
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...
Voice Actor Riho Iida Gives Birth — to Twins
Love Live's Rin Hoshizora voice announces birth with photo of fist-bumping
― Voice actor Riho Iida announced she had given birth to twins on Thursday. The voice actor reported she “gave birth to twins on a sunny day when the cherry blossoms were in full bloom.” Iida also included a photo of what appears to be her twins fist-bumping each other: ご報告です。桜が満開の、よく晴れた日に双子を出産しました。小さなふたりに毎日癒されながら、幸せな時間を過ごしてい...
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...
Gundam Designer Yoshikazu Yasuhiko Draws Sakura Miku
See Sakura Miku enjoying cherry blossoms at Hirosaki City
― The Hatsune Miku Official Blog announced on March 12 that Mobile Suit Gundam character designer and Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin creator Yoshikazu Yasuhiko had drawn Vocaloid idol Hatsune Miku as Sakura Miku for the HiroHako Spring Sightseeing Campaign. The piece depicts Sakura Miku carrying sweets by Hirosaki Castle in Hirosaki, Aomori Pr...
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 ...
Answerman - Why is There an Overlap Between Moe and the Alt-Right?
The weaponization of irony makes it hard to distinguish sincerity from sarcasm. What can we do to counter the online radicalization of anime fans?
― Overworked 9-5 Employee asks: “From the K-On! profile pic meme to accounts that post images of Anya Forger with white nationalist undertones, there's an unhealthy number of alt-right internet users who spout hateful content and have an affinity for cute...
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 ...
Anime World Offers Condolences After Voice Actor Yoko Kawanami's Passing
Creators, artists, & fans came together for their farewells
― The anime world lost another prolific voice actor with the announcement of Yoko Kawanami's passing on March 27. She is best known for her roles as Coconna Vartia in Armored Trooper Votoms, Midori Norimaki (née Yamabuki) in Dr. Slump, Bulma's Mother in Dragon Ball, and Rumi Kishikawa in Marmalade Boy. Her work has touched the lives and hear...
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 ...
Hayao Miyazaki Shaves Off Iconic Beard
And shows it off with protégé Hideaki Anno.
― Anime studio Khara shared a photo of Hideaki Anno and legendary Studio Ghibli animator Hayao Miyazaki on its second X (formerly Twitter) account on Wednesday. The two men appear happy in the photo, but something is amiss about Miyazaki — he's missing his iconic beard. According to Anno, Miyazaki shaved the beard because, “it was too much hassle to take c...
Evangelion Director Hideaki Anno Is Working on 5 Different Scripts Now
And he wants to work on a 6th for another Shin Kamen Rider
― Anime studio Khara reported on Tuesday that renowned animator, director, and screenwriter Hideaki Anno is currently writing screenplays for no less than five different works. Plus, if a new Shin Kamen Rider project is green-lit, Khara's co-founder and president would be working on six different scripts. 53年前の今日18日は『仮面ライダー対ショッカー』の公開日。そして2年前...
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...
Voice Actor Yoshimasa Hosoya Announces Marriage
Voice of Attack on Titan's Yuta Reiner Braun made announcement as plum trees are in full bloom
― Voice actor Yoshimasa Hosoya announced on Monday that he had gotten married. The voice actor offered a message to his fans and supporters: いつも応援してくださる皆様へ。 pic.twitter.com/KjBv8D9G95— 細谷佳正 YOSHIMASA HOSOYA (@hosoya_info) March 9, 2025 To everyone who always supports me. Announcement
I apologize for the pe...
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...
Frieren: Beyond Journey's End Wins 11th Anime Trending Awards
Frieren: Beyond Journey's End wins 5 other awards; DAN DA DAN, The Dangers in My Heart 2nd season win 4 awards each
― The 11th annual Anime Trending Awards announced its winners on Saturday and Frieren: Beyond Journey's End won Anime of the Year, as well as five other awards including Action or Adventure Anime of the Year and Fantasy Anime of the Year. DAN dA DAN and the second season of The Dangers ...
Actor Yuki Yamada Requests 3-Day Vacation For Future Monster Hunter Releases
Actor begrudgingly worked on Monster Hunter Wilds release day
― Japanese news outlet Oricon reported on February 18 that actor Yuki Yamada has asked his agency for three days off for future Monster Hunter releases. The actor's comments came during the press scrum after Capcom's Monster Hunter Wilds media launch event. 山田裕貴、事務所にモンハン休暇を直訴!? 『モンスターハンターワイルズ』メディア発表会に登場し思いのたけを語った。 pic.twitter.com/Si1MJblOQ...
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...
Ameku M.D.: Doctor Detective Voice Actor Ayane Sakura Gets Health Screening
Sakura: “I got a mammography from a fan.”
― The official X (formerly Twitter) account for the Ameku M.D.: Doctor Detective anime revealed that the February 15 episode of the anime's special program Ameku Takao no Kyushinbi features Ameku's voice actor Ayane Sakura receiving a medical screening. The episode is available on Aniplex's YouTube channel. 📺YouTubeにて配信開始‼￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣￣🥼天久鷹央の休診日💉佐倉綾音、人間ドックに行く▽...
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...
Voice Actors Tomoaki Maeno & Mikako Komatsu Announce Birth of Their 2nd Child
Dragon Quest: The Adventure of Dai costars announce birth of their 2nd child
― Voice acting couple Tomoaki Maeno and Mikako Komatsu announced the birth of their second child on social media on February 14. Komatsu noted that this was her first Instagram post of 2025 and both she and her child are healthy. In turn, Maeno stated, “This experience has given me a renewed sense of the preciousness of life...
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...
Ameku M.D.: Doctor Detective Radio Show Plays Recordings of Main Lead Ayane Sakura Sleeping
Voice of title character is genuinely sleeping
― The official X (formerly Twitter) account for the Ameku M.D.: Doctor Detective anime teased that the February 11 episode of the anime's audio radio program Nikkan Sakura Ayane Tensai Ameku Takao ni Naru 100 nichi Kan features the sleeping sounds of voice actor Ayane Sakura. The episode is available on the Aniplex YouTube channel, Apple Podcasts, and Sp...
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...
NHK World Streams Documentary About Detective Conan Creator Gōshō Aoyama Worldwide
Go behind-the-scenes of Detective Conan
― NHK World began streaming a new documentary about Detective Conan manga creator Gōshō Aoyama, originally from the Professional Shigoto no Ryūgi (The Professionals, or literally, Style of Professional Work) series, with English subtitles worldwide on December 28. The Professional Shigoto no Ryūgi Mangaka Gosho Aoyama SP special first ran on NHK BS Premium 4K i...
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...
Shintaro Kago's Dementia 21, Kan Takahashi's Ōgishima Saijiki Manga Win Angoulême Awards
Dementia 21 wins Series Prize, Ōgishima Saijiki wins Konishi Award
― The 52nd Angoulême International Comics Festival announced its winners on February 2, and Shintaro Kago's Dementia 21 volume 2 won the Le Fauve de la Série (Series Prize) award. Huber publishes Dementia 21 in French, and Baptiste Neveux is the translator into French. Fantagraphics released the two-volume manga in English in 2018 and...
Totto-chan, Look Back Staff Win Awards at 3rd Niigata Int'l Animation Film Festival
Yuki Hayashi also wins award for My Hero Academia: You're Next film
― The third Niigata International Animation Film Festival announced winners for the Hiroshi Ōkawa Award and the Kōji Fukiya Award on Friday. Shin-ei Animation won the Hiroshi Ōkawa Award for its work on the Totto-Chan: The Little Girl at the Window film. Director and animator Kiyotaka Oshiyama, animator Toshiyuki Inoue, and sound dir...
Kyoto Animation Arsonist's Lawyers Ask to Nullifiy Appeal Withdrawal
Defense asks for nullification 2 days after withdrawal of appeal last week
― The legal team of Shinji Aoba, who was convicted in the arson fire that killed 36 people and wounded 32 others at Kyoto Animation, asked the Osaka High Court to nullify Aoba's withdrawal of his appeal against his death sentence on January 30. Aoba himself withdrew the appeal two days earlier on January 28. When a suspect wit...
Gendai Production President/Producer Hisako Yamada Dies at 92
Yamada died on January 13 due to aspiration pneumonia
― Gendai Production announced on Wednesday that producer Hisako Yamada died on January 13 due to aspiration pneumonia. There will be a memorial service for her on March 25. She was 92. Yamada served as the president of Gendai Production, founded by her late husband and director Tengo Yamada. Yamada was a producer of multiple works, including the 1...
San Francisco Fine Arts Museum to Open 1st Major Manga Exhibit in U.S. in September
Featuring Fujio Akatsuka, Hirohiko Araki, Tetsuya Chiba, Eiichiro Oda, Gengoroh Tagame, Rumiko Takahashi, Keiichi Tanaami, Jiro Taniguchi, Kazumi Yamashita, Mari Yamazaki, and Fumi Yoshinaga
― The Fine Arts Museums of San Francisco's de Young Museum announced on January 27 that it will hold "the first major manga exhibition in the United States." The "Art of Manga" exhibit will display works by Fuji...
Voice Actor Mai Fuchigami Celebrates Birth of Her First Baby
Voice of Assassination Classroom's Nagisa announces birth of her daughter
― Voice actor Mai Fuchigami announced the birth of her daughter, her first child, on social media on February 1. The voice actor said she will be a “powerful mother and actress” going forward and included a photo of her daughter's feet. 【ご報告】先日、第一子となる女の子を出産いたしましたことをご報告させていただきます。これからは役者としても、そして母としてもパワフルに！一日一日を楽しんでいきたいと思います。今後とも...
Wizardry: Proving Grounds of the Mad Overlord Remake Game Wins Grammy Award
Game's composer Winifred Phillips won "Best Score Soundtrack for Video Games and Other Interactive Media" award
― The winners of the 67th Grammy Awards were revealed on Sunday and composer Winifred Phillips won the "Best Score Soundtrack for Video Games and Other Interactive Media" award for the 3D remake of the original Wizardry: Proving Grounds of the Mad Overlord game. Other winners of the Grammy ...
Meteor Garden Star Barbie Hsu Dies at 48
Live-action Mars star reportedly died of pneumonia after contracting influenza on vacation trip to Japan
― The BBC reported on Monday that Taiwanese actress Barbie Hsu — known for starring in the Meteor Garden live-action adaptation of Yoko Kamio's Boys Over Flowers (Hana Yori Dango) manga — has died of pneumonia. She was 48. Hsu's sister Dee Hsu said in a statement on Monday Hsu had contracted influ...
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