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Voice Actress Julie Mayfield Dies
Mayfield voiced Dr. Kureha in One PIece, Kyoko in Fruits Basket, Eva in Case Closed
― Mary Collins Agency revealed on Tuesday that voice actress Julie Mayfield died on November 20. She was 67. A memorial service will be held in 2026. Mayfield worked with Mary Collins Agency for 35 years. She has appeared in theater in Dallas-Fort Worth, and performed improv with 4 out of 5 Doctors and Lone Star Comed...
Chainsaw Man Creator Celebrates Texas Chain Saw Massacre's Return
Tatsuki Fujimoto: "Each subsequent film always offers a cathartic experience you rarely get in other films"
― Chainsaw Man creator Tatsuki Fujimoto posted comments regarding the upcoming theatrical re-release of The Texas Chain Saw Massacre film in Japanese theaters on Tuesday. Fujimoto said, "The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is an incredible film packed with gore, heartbreak, and sheer lovability. Peopl...
Voice Actor Jim Ward Dies at 66
Ward played Qwark in Ratchet and Clank, Jack Krauser in Resident Evil 4
― The Stephanie Miller Show host Stephanie Miller revealed that her former co-host and voice actor Jim Ward died on Wednesday. He was 66. Although the cause of death was not specified, Ward had a mild cognitive issue in 2021, which led to a severe case of COVID-19. He was hospitalized and paralyzed for four months. He also got Al...
Anime World Offers Condolences After Voice Actor Tomomichi Nishimura's Death, Part II
More creators, artists remember one of their own
― December 8 marked a sad day for anime fans around the world with the news of prolific voice actor Tomomichi Nishimura's death. His works are beloved around the world, and professionals and fans alike have taken to social media to express their tributes to the late Nishimura. Rui Araizumi 西村知道さまのご冥福をお祈りいたします。— あらいずみるい☆ (@araizumirui) December 8, 2025 ...
Anime World Offers Condolences After Voice Actor Tomomichi Nishimura's Death, Part I
Creators, artists, fans came together for their farewells
―
The world lost a veteran anime voice actor with the announcement of Tomomichi Nishimura's death on December 8. He is best known for his roles as Coach Anzai from Slam Dunk, Shibaraku from Chō Mashin Eiyūden Wataru, Richard Mardukas from Full Metal Panic, Mike in Ojarumaru, Jamitov Hyman in Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam, defensive captain officer ...
Voice Actor Ai Furihata Donates Part of Hong Kong Event Proceeds to Fire Victims
Furihata: "I hope this can be of some help to everyone"
― Voice actor Ai Furihata (voice of Love Live! Sunshine!!'s Ruby Kurosawa) announced on Sunday that she will donate a portion of her Hong Kong fan meeting proceeds to the recovery efforts of the Wang Fuk Court apartment complex fire. Furihata expressed her condolences to the victims of the November 26 fire: "In the hopes of helping with the reco...
Actor Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa Dies at 75
Tagawa played Shang Tsung in Mortal Kombat, Valco in Star Wars: Visions
― Actor Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa died due to compilcations from a stroke on December 4 in Santa Barbara, CA. He was 75. Tagawa is known for playing Shang Tsung in live-action film adaptations of the Mortal Kombat franchise. He also voiced the character in the Mortal Kombat 11 game. He played Heihachi Mishima in the 2009 live-action T...
Slam Dunk, Street Fighter Voice Actor Tomomichi Nishimura Dies
79-year-old voiced Slam Dunk's Coach Anzai, Street Fighter's M. Bison & Akuma
― The talent agency Arts Vision announced on Monday that voice actor Tomomichi Nishimura died on November 29. He was 79. His family already held a private funeral and service. The agency had previously reported on September 22 that he would be taking a hiatus from work due to poor health. Nishimura was born on June 2, 1946 ...
Tekken Director Katsuhiro Harada Leaves Bandai Namco
Harada worked on fighting game franchise for 30 years
― Katsuhiro Harada announced on X/Twitter on Monday that he will be leaving Bandai Namco at the end of 2025, having worked for more than 30 years at Namco and then Bandai Namco, and having worked on every entry in the Tekken franchise, including the most recent entry, Tekken 8. Monday marked the final day of Tekken's 30th anniversary. Harada expla...
Writing the Strongest Villainess - an Interview with Light Novel Author Touko Amekawa
What does it take to write a strong protagonist who is neither heroine nor villainess? Touko Amekawa discusses that among other topics.
―
It's a good time to be a fan of light novelist Touko Amekawa. English-language readers may have first been introduced to her work with Seven Seas' translation of 7th Time Loop: The Villainess Enjoys a Carefree Life, but before long, other publishers picked up her ...
Takayuki Matsutani, Mamoru Oshii, Yoshikazu Yasuhiko, Mami Koyama, More Win TAAF Lifetime Achievement Awards
Also: Keiko Takemiya, Tomoko Konparu, Masaaki Mori, Nizo Yamamoto, Takashi Namiki
― The Tokyo Anime Award Festival (TAAF) announced the 2026 Lifetime Achievement Awards winners on Wednesday. Producer: Takayuki Matsutani (Astro Boy, Black Jack, Legend of the Forest) Author: Keiko Takemiya (To Terra, Kaze to Ki no Uta, Andromeda Stories) Screenwriter: Tomoko Konparu (2025 The Rose of Versailles, Soreik...
VTuber Kanata Amane Announces Graduation
holoForce member departs Hololive Productions on December 27
― Japanese VTuber Kanata Amane and VTuber agency Hololive Productions announced her graduation on Tuesday. Hololive Production stated that Amane will graduate on December 27. Amane, in turn, released a statement in Japanese and English on her X (formerly Twitter) account, confirming that she is departing from Hololive Productions due to ov...
Voice Actor Hiroki Yasumoto Cancels TV Appearance After Traffic Accident; Returns to Work After Doctor's Clearance
Yasumoto canceled Seiyū to Yo Asobi appearance on Monday
― Talent agency Sigma Seven announced on Monday that voice actor Hiroki Yasumoto was involved in a multiple collision traffic accident and has canceled his appearance on Monday's episode of Abema's Seiyū to Yo Asobi (romanized as Say You to Yo Asobi, literally Night Out with Voice Actors) program. The agency then reported on Tuesday that the do...
Legend of the Galactic Heroes Novelist Yoshiki Tanaka Suffered Debilitating Hemorrhage Last Year
Arslan author now rehabilitating in nursing facility, but still continues to write
― Hiroaki Adachi, the head of the Wright Staff company which manages the business affairs of The Legend of the Galactic Heroes and The Heroic Legend of Arslan novelist Yoshiki Tanaka, reported on Sunday that Tanaka had suffered a debilitating cerebral hemorrhage exactly one year ago on November 30, 2024. Tanaka had col...
RIDI Pulls BL Web Novel After Allegations Story Mirrors Career of e-Sports Legend Faker
Public outcry over using real person's achievements in adult fiction caused removal; author issues apology
― Korean webtoon and web novel platform RIDI suspended sales of the newly published boys-love (BL) novel Crazy Dog Hunts the Tiger only a day after its release on November 24, following accusations that the story closely mirrors the real-life career of the world-famed professional gamer known a...
Japanese Artists' Concerts, Musical Events Canceled in China Amid Political Tensions
LisAni! Shanghai event canceled; Bandai Namco Festival cancels stages; Ayumi Hamasaki, KAF, SID, Kokia, more cancel concerts
― Several Japanese music artists and Japanese music-themed events have canceled concerts and other events in China in the last 24 hours, amid rising political tension between Japan and China. The anime music magazine LisAni! has canceled its "LisAni! LIVE Shanghai 2025" concert...
Keita Richard Kusama Leaves Ae! Group
Actor also fined 100,000 yen following October arrest
―
Starto Entertainment announced on November 20 Keita Richard Kusama will part ways with his Japanese boy band Ae! Group. The group will consist of Yoshinori Masakado, Seiya Suezawa, Ken Kojima, and Masaya Sano going forward. The agency stated it will continue its contract with Kusama. Tokyo Metropolitan Police are also fining the actor 100,000 y...
Finding Relena: Exploring A Gundam Heroine's Legacy With Voice Actor Lisa Ann Beley
What was it like playing Relena, one of Gundam Wing's most controversial characters?
― This year marks the 30th anniversary of Mobile Suit Gundam Wing. But for American fans like me, it's only been 25 years since the giant robot show altered the course of my life. When it aired on Toonami in March of 2000, it sparked my lifelong obsession with Gundam that continues to this day, and I am not kidding w...
Korean Appeals Court Sentences Operator Behind NunuTV, OKToon Piracy Sites to 4.5 Years in Prison
Appeals court serves harsher sentence than initial 3-year term issued by lower court
― The Daejeon High Court's Criminal Appeals Division on November 13 sentenced the operator behind the illegal streaming site NunuTV and the webtoon piracy site OKToon to four years and six months in prison for copyright infringement. The sentence was harsher than the initial three-year term issued by a lower court i...
One Piece, Dragon Ball Super Series Director Tatsuya Nagamine Dies (Updated)
Nagamine directed One Piece's Wano Kuni, Egghead Island arcs; One Piece Film Z, Dragon Ball Super: Broly movies
― Composer Kōhei Tanaka and screenwriter Osamu Suzuki both reported on X/Twitter on Thursday that anime director Tatsuya Nagamine died this summer. Tanaka stated he had attended a gathering at Toei Animation to remember Nagamine on Thursday. Suzuki stated he could not attend the gathering d...
Late Ghibli Director Isao Takahata's Unproduced Scripts Found at Home
Around 130 pages of notes include Princess Kaguya prequel, stories based on Shuten-dōji, Kenji Miyazawa
― NHK reported on Tuesday that around 130 pages of scripts and notes on unproduced works were found in late director Isao Takahata's home in June earlier this year. Seiji Kano, a professor at Tokyo Zokei University, and director of the Institute of Isao Takahata and Hayao Miyazaki Films, has examin...
Super Mario Manga Artist Kazuki Motoyama Dies
Motoyama drew manga based on Super Mario franchise from 1988-1998
― Manga creator Risa Motoyama revealed on Instagram on October 2 that her brother Kazuki Motoyama (real name Masumi Motoyama), artist of various manga based on Nintendo's Super Mario series, has died. She did not confirm date or cause of death on Instagram. Motoyama was best known for manga based on the Super Mario franchise, dating ba...
Perfume Member Ayaka Nishiwaki Announces Marriage
Nishiwaki: “Marrying a fan has always been my dream. Congratulations, teenage me! We did it!”
― Ayaka Nishiwaki, member of Japanese technopop trio Perfume, announced through her Instagram account on Tuesday that she has gotten married. Nishiwaki noted her partner is a non-celebrity, a longtime friend, and a fan of Perfume. Nishiwaki also said marrying a fan has been a dream of hers, and congratulated...
Voice Actor Fumiyoshi Shioya Limits Activities
Agency states actor is "exhausted" after being slandered on social media
― Talent agency Haikyo announced on Friday that voice actor Fumiyoshi Shioya is limiting some of his activities. The agency explained that Shioya is "exhausted" and has been forced to take a break from his work, due to what it says is "slander and false information" being spread on social media services like X/Twitter and online...
Hololive VTuber Korone Inugami Announces Hiatus
Inugami takes break from streaming to focus on medical care for her family
― Ho̵lolive VTuber Korone Inugami announced on Thursday that she is going on hiatus from streaming to focus on medical care for her family. An X (formerly Twitter) post by the VTuber's agent stated, "We will announce [Inugami's] return after discussing it with her." Inugami's agent further stated that her agency will post her ...
Panorama of Hell Manga Creator Hideshi Hino Reveals Pancreatic Cancer Diagnosis
79-year-old creator of Red Snake, The Town of Pigs manga will have surgery at start of next year
― Horror manga creator Hideshi Hino revealed on his X/Twitter account on Wednesday that he has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Hino explained as the cancer has not spread, he will have surgery at the beginning of next year to remove the cancer. For the remainder of this year, he is undergoing IV ch...
Manga Artist Masakazu Katsura Halts All New Work to Recuperate After Major Surgery
Artist behind Video Girl Ai, DNA², Tiger & Bunny adds it will take a while to regain his strength
― Manga artist Masakazu Katsura reported on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Tuesday that he recently had a major surgery, although he could not go into much detail on it. As a result, he has put all his work on hold except for previous projects (commissioned before the surgery), on which he still wor...
Hololive VTuber Akai Haato Goes on Hiatus
Due to health, after consulting with her family, Haato will go on hiatus to prioritize her recovery
― VTuber agency Cover announced on October 31 that hololive VTuber Akai Haato is going on hiatus. Haato's agency stated, "Regarding Akai, due to her health and after consulting with her family, has decided to go on hiatus." Cover added that comments by Haato during recent streams have been cut in such ...
Manga Creator Go Nagai, Dragon Quest Creator Yuji Horii Inducted Into Order of the Rising Sun
Creator of Devilman, Mazinger Z, Cutie Honey, Getter Robo & JRPG pioneer among 3,963 honored
― The Japanese government honored manga creator Go Nagai (Devilman, Mazinger Z, Cutie Honey, Getter Robo) and Dragon Quest game franchise creator Yuji Horii with the Order of the Rising Sun Award, Gold Rays with Rosette for their significant contributions to the country on Monday. The Ministry of Internal Aff...
G.I. Joe Animated Series Voice Actor Lee Weaver Dies
Actor also known for work on The Bill Cosby Show, Easy Street, NYPD Blue
― Entertainment news website The Hollywood Reporter reported on Saturday that actor Lee Weaver died on September 22. He was 95. Lee Weaver, Actor in 'O Brother, Where Art Thou,' ‘The Bill Cosby Show’ and 'Easy Street,' Dies at 95 https://t.co/AVWd0XmEiZ— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) November 1, 2025 Weaver is perhaps best known...
Live-Action Crying Freeman Actor Tchéky Karyo Dies
Actor known for roles in La Femme Nikita film, The Missing series
― Entertainment news outlet Deadline reported on Friday that French actor Tchéky Karyo died on Friday of cancer. He was 72. Karyo played Detective Netah in the 1995 English live-action film based on Kazuo Koike and Ryōichi Ikegami's Crying Freeman manga. Karyo was born in Turkey in 1953, and he and his family moved to France when he wa...
Detective Conan's Gōshō Aoyama, Major's Takuya Mitsuda Illustrate Pro Baseball Player Shohei Ohtani
Just in time for the MLB World Series
― Home security company Secom's X (formerly Twitter) account revealed on Tuesday illustrations of Japanese Major League Baseball phenomenon Shohei Ohtani, of the Los Angeles Dodgers, by manga creators Gosho Aoyama (Detective Conan) and Takuya Mitsuda (Major baseball series) to commemorate Ohtani playing in the World Series. The post states that those who particip...
Exit 8's Walking Man Actor Yamato Kochi's Life Changes Overnight After Film's Hit Run
Yamato Kochi: "If I don't wear a hat, fans swarm around me, and if I do, no one notices me (lol)."
― Actor Yamato Kochi, who played the Walking Man from the hit live-action film Exit 8 (8-Ban Deguchi), revealed to Japanese women's magazine Josei Jishin on Sunday changes in his life following his appearance in the film. Kochi stated that he has been recognized as the Walking Man while in public. “If I...
WEBTOON Ent. Makes 1st Appearance at LightBox Expo This Weekend
WEBTOON hosts panels featuring editors, producers behind Lore Olympus, The Mafia Nanny, unOrdinary
― WEBTOON is making its debut at LightBox Expo 2025, which is being held from October 24-26 at the Pasadena Convention Center in California. At the event, WEBTOON is hosting a lineup of creator- and editor-led panels aimed at helping both aspiring and professional artists expand their opportunities in ...
Full Metal Panic! Creator Shoji Gatoh to Launch New Project With Fantasia Bunko
More details to be revealed on November 20
― Kadokawa announced on Saturday during the "Fantasia Bunko Hōsōkyoku Aki no Dai Kanshasai" livestream event that Full Metal Panic! light novel author Shoji Gatoh is launching a new project with Kadokawa's Fantasia Bunko imprint. Kadokawa will reveal more details on November 20, the same day the third volume of Full Metal Panic! Family will ship. ◤◢◤◢◤◢ 特 報...
Ken Akamatsu Hands Over Duties to New Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
Manga creator debuted Love Hina manga in October 1998
― Manga artist and politician Ken Akamatsu announced on X/Twitter ended his duties as the Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology. He has handed over the role to Masato Shimizu. Akamatsu began his new roles as a member of the House of Councillors on the same day on the Committee on Education, Culture and S...
Video Game World Offers Condolences After Developer Tomonobu Itagaki's Passing
Creators, artists, & fans came together for their farewells
― On October 16, the video game world learned that we had lost Tomonobu Itagaki. Best known for creating the Dead or Alive fighting game series, reviving the Ninja Ryukenden series as Ninja Gaiden, and heading Koei Tecmo's Team Ninja, Itagaki brought joy to thousands of game enthusiasts around the world. People within the game industry have...
Japan Names 1st Voice Actor Masako Nozawa, Manga Creator Keiko Takemiya as Persons of Cultural Merit
Dancer/actor Min Tanaka, playwright/actor Hideki Noda also honored
― The Japanese government has selected 21 honorees for this year's roster of Persons of Cultural Merit. The roster includes Masako Nozawa (Dragon Ball's Son Goku, Gegege no Kitarō's Kitarō) as the first voice actor to be so honored, as well as manga creator Keiko Takemiya (Toward the Terra, The Door into Summer, Andromeda Stories), da...
Dead or Alive, Ninja Gaiden Creator Tomonobu Itagaki Dies
"Final message" posted on Itagaki's Facebook account
― The official Facebook account of game designer Tomonobu Itagaki announced on Thursday that he has died. A "final message" from Itagaki stated on the account that if the message has been posted, it means that he has died. Itagaki was 58. The message translates:My final words:The light of my life is finally fading.If this message has been posted, i...
Visual Effects Society Names Godzilla, Ultraman's Eiji Tsuburaya to Hall of Fame
Pioneering special effects director worked on Godzilla, Rodan, Ultraman
― The Visual Effects Society announced on Wednesday that it will posthumously induct Japanese filmmaker and special effects director Eiji Tsuburaya into its Hall of Fame. The VES will also posthumously add Glenn Campbell and Mabel Normand into its Hall of Fame.The 2025 VES Honors Celebration will take place at Sony Pictures Image...
Voice Actor Yūki Kaji's Agency Issues Statement on Online Posts
VIMS: “Yūki Kaji would normally not wish to discuss such topics, but we take seriously the negative impact this has had not only on him but also on his family…”
― Voice actor Yūki Kaji's agency VIMS issued a statement on Monday regarding allegedly slanderous and misleading statements made about Kaji online. The statement noted the agency is aware of “false and misleading information about Yuki Kaji ...
Marlon Wayans Drops F-Bomb After Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle Outgrosses His Film
Wayans: “F**k Anime!” — Co-star Tyriq Withers: “You can't disrespect anime.”
― American actor, comedian, writer, and producer Marlon Wayans (Scary Movie) let his feelings about anime known during an episode of the ShxtsnGigs Podcast on October 2. Wayans appeared on the podcast with Him film co-star Tyriq Withers to speak about their movie. At around the 20:40 mark Withers is asked about his interest ...
Starto Entertainment Suspends Activities of Ae! Group Member Keita Richard Kusama After Arrest
Actor slated to star in upcoming 2nd live-action Mr. Osomatsu film
― Tokyo Metropolitan Police arrested Japanese boy band Ae! Group member Keita Richard Kusama on Saturday on suspicion of indecent exposure. Kusama's agency Starto Entertainment announced on the same day that Kusama's activities are suspended.Kusama is slated to star in the second live-action film in the Mr. Osomatsu (Osomatsu-san) fra...
Original Tiger Mask's 'Osaka Tiger' Mask Found & Verified
Mask valued at 3,000,000 yen (about US$20,397.30)
― Japanese variety and antiques appraisal program Kaiun! Nandemo Kanteidan featured on September 30 an original mask worn by professional wrestler and first real-life Tiger Mask, Satoru Sayama. The mask's owner, an avid Tiger Mask fan, stated that the mask was the “Osaka Tiger” mask Sayama wore during a meet-and-greet event on August 9, 1984. Among Ti...
Former BABYMETAL Member Yui Mizuno Ends Contract with Music Label
Musician will step away from entertainment
― Music label and production company Amuse announced on Tuesday that former J-pop/metal band BABYMETAL member Yui Mizuno (YUIMETAL) has ended her contract with the company in a move to step away from the entertainment industry.Mizuno stepped away from the media after departing from BABYMETAL in October 2018.She shared a message on her company's website at th...
Shoko Nakagawa Announces Birth of Twins
Nakagawa: “They both held my fingers tightly. So cute!”
― Multi-talent Shoko Nakagawa (popularly known as Shokotan) announced the birth of her twin sons on Tuesday. “I gave birth to healthy twins safely around 9:30! The babies and I are all doing well!” Nakagawa also included a photo of herself holding her twin boys. 9:30頃に無事、元気な双子を出産しました！母子共に健康です！2人とも2600g越え！産声もしっかりしてました小さな、力強い命たちを人生かけて守っていきたいと心から思い...
Voice Actors Kaito Ishikawa & Maaya Uchida Announce Marriage
Gate co-stars spread happy news in a joint message to their fans & colleagues
― Voice actors Kaito Ishikawa and Maaya Uchida, who happened to play Gate's Takeo Kurata and Shino Kuribayashi, respectively, announced on Tuesday that they have married each other on their respective social media accounts. The two voice actors released a joint statement thanking their supporters and colleagues. This is a ...
Gisèle Alain Manga Creator Sui Kasai Dies
Kasai left Gisèle Alain manga on hiatus since 2014
― Manga creator Sui Kasai died on September 12. Kasai's relatives announced the passing on the creator's X (formerly Twitter) account on Sunday, and noted that they had already held funeral services. Kasai is survived by fellow manga creator and wife Ao Ogino. Kasai is perhaps best known for the now-unfinished Gisèle Alain manga series. Set in early ...
Teenage Mercenary Webtoon Creators to Attend NYCC in 1st U.S. Con Signing
WEBTOON also announces other guest creators attending event, panel lineup
― WEBTOON Entertainment will return to New York Comic Con, and it has revealed its schedule of panels, creator signings, and exclusive fan experiences. The creators of Teenage Mercenary, YC and Rakyeon, will make their first U.S. convention appearance at the event. Other WEBTOON featured guests include: Brent Bristol (Ordeal),...
Kikuko Inoue Celebrates Her '17th' Birthday — in Turkey! Anime's Cosplay
Inoue: “17 isn't an age, it's a way of life”
― Voice actor Kikuko Inoue posted a photo celebrating her “17th” birthday on Thursday. Inoue stated, “17 isn't an age, it's a way of life” and noted she cosplayed as an Ikkokukan High School student from this year's anime series Turkey! Time to Strike. (While Inoue voiced Suguri from Turkey! Time to Strike, her character is not an Ikkokukan High School stu...
Shoko Nakagawa Illustrates Her Experience Being Pregnant
Shokotan: “It's all because of hormones”
― Multi-talent Shoko Nakagawa (popularly known as Shokotan) released an illustration comic detailing her pregnancy experience on Tuesday. Nakagawa stated, “Today, I'm going to talk about some surprising things that happened due to hormonal changes during pregnancy” and asks men to read the comic. In the comic, Nakagawa noted her constant use of the restroom, s...
Professional Wrestler Kenny Omega Gets Revenge on Final Fantasy Composer Nobuo Uematsu
Only took 1 year for Omega to put Uematsu into a cobra twist
― Final Fantasy composer Nobuo Uematsu posted images of his "rematch" with All Elite Wrestling star and executive vice president Kenny Omega (Tyson Smith) on X (formerly Twitter) last Saturday. The composer states, "A revenge match with Kenny Omega after a year! The cobra twist really hurts when you lock it in for real…" Uematsu shared two ...
Transformers, G.I. Joe Animated Series' Writer Ron Friedman Dies
Friedman wrote for numerous animated series, films, U.S. television shows
― Entertainment news website Variety reported on Monday that writer Ron Friedman died from cardiopulmonary arrest at Motion Picture and Television Fund in Los Angeles, CA on September 15. He was 93. Friedman was born on August 1, 1932. He got a Bachelor of Arts in Architecture at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA. Fr...
Fuuto Pi Director Praises Student's Cyclone Joker Unicorn Gundam Model
Model was on display at Kaijō Junior & Senior High School culture festival
― FUUTO PI director Yousuke Kabashima complimented the Kaijō Junior & Senior High School's model club for a Unicorn Gundam model painted as Kamen Rider W's Cyclone Joker on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Sunday. Kabashima noted that his son was touring the school during its culture festival and excitedly told the model's ...
Voice Actors Kensho Ono, Kana Hanazawa Divorce
Joint statement: “Due to differences in our lifestyles, it became difficult for us to find time to spend together as a couple, and as we continued to drift apart, we decided to respect each other and go our separate ways”
― Voice actors Kensho Ono and Kana Hanazawa released a joint statement on Sunday to announce they have divorced. The two voice actors released the statement on their X (formerly Tw...
Star Fruit Books Founder Matt Haasch Dies
Haasch launched GoFundMe campaign on September 2 to cover expenses during lymphoma treatment
― The official website of Star Fruit Books announced on Monday that its founder Matt Haasch has died. The company added that all orders and projects will be put on hold as the company staff take the time to mourn and honor Haasch's memory. The company stated that its core members are committed to carrying on ...
Race Horse Haru Urara, Inspiration for Uma Musume Pretty Derby Franchise Character, Dies
Throroughbred race horse had 113-loss streak before she retired
― The official X/Twitter account for the Uma Musume Pretty Derby franchise announced that Haru Urara, the Thoroughbred race horse that served as the inspiration for the franchise's character of the same name, died peacefully on Tuesday. She was 29. A veterinarian checked on Urara on Monday when she was not defecating. Urara had horse col...
Gimmick! Game Composer Masashi Kageyama Dies
Composer died at 62 after battle with stomach cancer
―
The official Bluesky account for Japanese record label Brave Wave announced on Monday composer Masashi Kageyama died on September 5 after a battle with stomach cancer. He was 62. Kageyama was known for his work on Sunsoft's 1992 Gimmick! platformer game for Nintendo Famicom (Nintendo Entertainment System in West). The game used an advanced sound...
One-Punch Man Season 3 Director Shinpei Nagai Responds to Fan Concerns
Response comes amidst fans' worries over season 3's quality with relatively unknown director
― Shinpei Nagai released a statement on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Wednesday regarding his appointment as the One Punch Man season 3 director and concerns over the quality of the new season of the anime series. Nagai starts with a brief overview of his career and anime series he has worked on: "I've ...
Voice Actor Tatsuhisa Suzuki Resumes Musical Activities With New Music Project 'SHINKIRO&Co.'
Suzuki to still use vocalist name Ta_2; to hold 1st solo concert under SHINKIRO&Co. project on October 13
― Japanese entertainment news websites reported on Monday that voice actor Tatsuhisa Suzuki is set to fully resume his musical career with a music project called "SHINKIRO&Co.," and will hold a band-style solo concert titled "cantabile con anima" on October 13 at the Shinagawa Intercity Hall in T...
Anime World Offers Condolences After Voice Actor Takaya Hashi's Passing, Part II
Fans join creators in offering their condolences
― August 27 was a sad day for anime fans around the world with the news of prolific voice actor Takaya Hashi's passing. The works featuring his characters are beloved around the world, and fans have taken to social media to express their tributes: Fire Force TVアニメ『炎炎ノ消防隊』シリーズにて、グスタフ本田を演じていただいた土師孝也さんがご逝去されました。謹んでお悔やみ申し上げますとともに、ご冥福を心よりお祈り申し上げます。— TVアニメ『...
Lookism, Viral Hit Creator Taejun Pak Confirms Divorce
Pak denies rumors of lawsuit over property division
― Taejun Pak, the webtoon creator best known for Lookism, has confirmed that he divorced his former spouse, Soo-jung Choi, while firmly denying rumors of a property division lawsuit. In an interview with Korean entertainment media outlet OSEN published on Friday, Pak explained, “It is true that we divorced. Discussions began early last year, and th...
Anime World Offers Condolences After Voice Actor Takaya Hashi's Passing, Part I (Updated)
Creators, artists, & fans came together for their farewells
― The anime world lost a renowned voice actor with the announcement of Takaya Hashi's passing on August 27. He is best known for his roles as Toki from the Fist of the North Star franchise, Gerry Strydum from the Baki Hanma series, Kyohei Mizoguchi from the Fafner franchise, Gustav Honda from Fire Force, and Duke Inuarashi from One Piece. H...
New York Comic Con Screens U.S. Premiere of All You Need is Kill Anime in October
Kamudo manga creator Akira Himekawa listed as attending convention
― GKIDS announced on August 14 that it will screen the U.S. premiere of Warner Bros. Japan and STUDIO4°C's anime of Hiroshi Sakurazaka and Yoshitoshi ABe's All You Need Is Kill science fiction light novel at New York Comic Con this year, on October 10 (the screening is billed as the North American premiere but GKIDS has confirmed with...
VTuber Ironmouse Makes Rolling Stone's Top 25 Most Influential Creators of 2025
Announcement comes weeks after VTuber publicly announced departure from VShojo
― VTuber Ironmouse revealed on Wednesday on X (formerly Twitter) that she has made Rolling Stone magazine's Top 25 Most Influential Creators of 2025. Ironmouse said, "Thank you so much @RollingStone for including me on the 25 most influential creators of 2025 list. I still can't believe [I'm] on the list!" Ironmous's inclu...
Voice Actor Takaya Hashi Dies at 72
Voice of Fist of the North Star's Toki died on August 27
― Apte Pro announced on Thursday that its President, CEO, and voice actor Takaya Hashi died from a heart attack on August 27. He was 72. Hashi was born on January 8, 1952 in Tokyo. He joined the Seinenza Theater Company before becoming a voice actor. He later became the President and CEO of talent agency Apte Pro. His roles include Fist of the ...
Cat's Eye Creator Tsukasa Hōjō Releases Statement Before New Anime's Release
Tsukasa Hojo: "Since it was my first serialized work and I was feeling my way through it, it feels a bit embarrassing now."
― Cat's Eye creator Tsukasa Hojo released a statement on Tuesday prior to the new anime adaptation's release. Hojo stated he was grateful to the fans of his series, and it was thanks to them that Cat's Eye was receiving a new anime series. Hojo's full statement reads:
"We are on...
VTuber Suisei Hoshimachi Makes Cover of Forbes Japan 30 Under 30
3D animator Nashi and animator Kerorira also made Forbes Japan's 30 Under 30 list
― VTuber Suisei Hoshimachi revealed on Monday that she has made the cover of this year's October issue of Forbes Japan for the magazine's "30 Under 30" edition. ANN Japan based staff confirmed the magazine cover. The magazine also features an interview with the VTuber highlighting her career and what led her to become a...
YouTuber Calm Down Man Confirms Full Retirement from Webtoons
Former artist states he has no plans to return to comics medium
― YouTuber Calm Down Man, formerly known as the webtoon artist Lee Mal-nyeon, has declared his complete retirement from comics, stating he has no plans to return to the medium. Appearing on MBC's talk show Radio Star on August 20, Calm Down Man responded to a question about resuming his webtoon career by saying, "I've stopped drawing co...
Ryoko Shiraishi Goes Camping
Ryoko Shiraishi's thought smores were made how?
― As a voice actor for male characters, female characters, and everyone in between, Ryoko Shiraishi has a uniquely flexible vocal range. But during her Otakon panel, the veteran entertainer spoke about broadening her horizons outside of her career. Befitting Otakon's 2025 camping theme, Shiraishi revealed she'd recently taken up camping in Japan after s...
Shuichiro Umeda Dazzles Otakon Crowd With The Summer Hikaru Died Q&A
From the chicken scene to accents, Shuichiro Umeda discusses what it's like to play both Hikaru and "Hikaru."
― Shuichiro Umeda entered his Otakon Q&A with an aura so gleeful and powerful that if one didn't know any better, they'd think it was the cause for some technical difficulty at the panel's start. The presentation hit a blue screen as it delayed its special video message from Hikaru's director...
Voice Actor Mike McFarland Diagnosed With Glioblastoma Following Brain Tumor Surgeries
McFarland had surgery last January for brain tumor
― The GoFundMe crowdfunding campaign to support voice actor Mike McFarland following his brain surgery last January revealed on Monday that McFarland has been diagnosed with glioblastoma, brain cancer that originates as a growth of cells in the brain or spinal cord. After attempting assisted living, McFarland is again in the hospital and is moving to...
Anime World Offers Condolences After Voice Actor Tomo Sakurai's Death
Creators, artists, fans came together for their farewells
― The anime world lost a renowned voice actor and singer with the announcement of Tomo Sakurai's death on August 13. She was known for her roles as Mylene Flare Jenius from the Macross franchise, Misao Makimachi from Rurouni Kenshin, Shayla-Shayla from El Hazard The Magnificent World, Meimi Haneoka from Saint Tail, and Hinowa from Gintama. She...
Anime NJ++ Convention Hosts Keita Amemiya
Anime NJ++ takes place on November 14-16
― New Jersey anime convention Anime NJ++ announced last week that it will host artist, director, and screenwriter Keita Amemiya for this year's convention. Amemiya will have a panel, interviews, and signings during the convention. Anime NJ++ will take place at the Hilton Hasbrouck Heights in Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey on November 14 to 16. Amemiya is perhap...
Macross 7, Rurouni Kenshin Voice Actress Tomo Sakurai Dies of Cancer at 53
Voice actress was hospitalized for multiple organ cancer on August 4
― The official X/Twitter account for voice actress Tomo Sakurai announced on Saturday that she died on August 13 after a battle with multiple organ cancer. She was 53. On August 10, Sakurai had canceled her "TOMO Natsu 2025 Live" concert that had been planned for August 17. She had been urgently hospitalized on August 4 after a medi...
Voice Actor Bill Flynn Dies at 86
Flynn voiced Dr. Agasa in Funimation's original dub of Case Closed
― Voice actor Bill Flynn (also known as William Flynn) died on July 4. He was 86. There will be a memorial service at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday at Restland Memorial Chapel in Dallas, TX. Flynn was born on September 9, 1938 in Yonkers, New York. In addition to acting, he was an instructor in the Air Force, counselor and director of the Ca...
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...
Apothecaries and Assassins: Q&A with Minoji Kurata
Nothing prepared manga artist Minoji Kurata for American fans
― Nothing about Washington DC was what Minoji Kurata expected. First, she had been told to prepare for hot, muggy weather so she wore a traditional yukata, but the air was unseasonably cool. Nothing prepared her for American fans either, who she described as “passionate,” surprising her by cosplaying even outside the convention, unlike in ...
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...
Ryota Takeuchi and Nobutoshi Canna Swap Travelers' Tales at Otakon Panel
On Otakon's final day, Ryota Takeuchi joined forces with Nobutoshi Canna for one of the most unique panels of the weekend: their leisurely sojourns through the Japanese countryside.
― On Otakon's final day, Ryota Takeuchi joined forces with Nobutoshi Canna for one of the most unique panels of the weekend. Rather than discussing more about their anime roles, they decided to discuss something else: lei...
Berserk's, Fate's Nobutoshi Canna Recalls Past Roles in Otakon Panel
From Guts to Knuckles, Nobutoshi Canna's had a storied career.
― Voice acting veteran Nobutoshi Canna entered the halls of Otakon with fans eager to get insight regarding his career's longevity. As the title of his Q&A panel implies, Canna would discuss his roles from Berserk to Fate, although he did get into a few other roles too. The tone was set beautifully when a fan found a perfect opportunity t...
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 ...
Entertainer Shoko Nakagawa Is Expecting Twins
Multi-talent had announced her pregnancy on her birthday May 5
― Japanese multi-talent Shoko Nakagawa (popularly known as "Shokotan") announced on Saturday that she is expecting twin boys. Nakagawa made the announcement in an X (formerly Twitter) post fetauring an exclusive interview she had with Japanese fashion magazine Numéro Tokyo. In her interview, she spoke about her expected twins, fertility t...
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...
Voice Actor Hina Kino Announces Birth of Son
Voice of Apocalypse Hotel's Tamako shared photo of her family holding each other's hands
― Voice actor Hina Kino announced the birth of her son on July 18. Kino included a photo of her family holding each other's hands and a short message to her colleagues and fans. I recently gave birth to a baby boy.
Both my son and I are in good health.
I would like to thank all my colleagues for adjusting my sche...
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