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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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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),...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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 ...
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...
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 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...
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...
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