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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
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...
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...
Reading with Manga One App Editor-in-Chief, NOVELOUS App Producer Yuki Wada
Longtime editor Yuki Wada discusses his experience in the Japanese publishing industry and where it's going from here.
― Yuki Wada has been an editor for various publications in Japan for quite some time, working on a wide range of titles. He has been instrumental in the creation of the NOVELOUS platform, a light novel serialization app that offers readers a variety of light novels not otherwise ava...
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...
Hololive Night Pulls Huge Grand Slam at Dodgers Stadium
Unlike the Dodgers that night, the hololive VTubers did not strike out once.
― Out of everything I went to at Anime Expo this year, the hololive Night at Dodgers stadium had to be the best out of all of them. This was my first time at a baseball stadium in over 17 years as I'm not a sports fan in the slightest, yet seeing all of the hololivery on the jumbotron coupled with the fan interaction on the ...
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...
Kill la Kill Animator Apologizes After Supporting Nationalist Japanese Politician
Sushio endorsed politician Uryū Hirano in a now-deleted X/Twitter post
― Kill la Kill character designer and animator Toshio “Sushio” Ishizaki endorsed nationalist Japanese politician Uryū Hirano for her bid for Japan's upper legislative house in a now deleted X (formerly Twitter) post on July 5. “My current favorite is Uryū Hirano. Her name and way of life are just so cool,” Sushio posted. “I can't...
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...
A Discussion with Mokumokuren—Creator of The Summer Hikaru Died
Mokumokuren discusses inspiration and creating the story they wanted to read at their first con appearance.
― There's much anticipation for the airing of the anime adaptation of Mokumokuren's The Summer Hikaru Died. At Anime Expo 2025, Mokumokuren made their first appearance at an American anime convention. They showed up wearing a black block over their head in order to conceal their identity. Howev...
BL Manga Creator Ogerestu Tanaka Makes First Appearance at Anime Expo 2025
“I’m touched that you’re all here today and I intend to draw BL until I drop!“
― Famed Boys Love manga creator Ogeretsu Tanaka celebrates more than a decade since her debut in 2014. Brought to Los Angeles by KUMA Books, Tanaka has been booked and busy exploring the city's milkshakes and burgers. As a panel full of fans filled the convention room, Tanaka waved to fans as she wore a pink mask made of c...
Voice Actor Yurika Kubo Announces Marriage
Voice of Classroom of the Elite's Kikyo marries someone outside entertainment life
― Voice actor Yurika Kubo (Classroom of the Elite's Kikyo Kushida) announced on Tuesday she had gotten married. She thanked her supporters and noted her husband is a non-celebrity. To everyone who supports me and everyone who cares about me,
At a time when the summer sky is shining brightly, I apologize for raising a ...
Voice Actors Shizuka Ishigami, Kohei Yanagi Reveal Marriage, Pregnancy
Voices of Nukitashi's Nanase, Junnosuke post joint messages
― Voice actors Shizuka Ishigami and Kohei Yanagi (who happen to co-star in Nukitashi the Animation as Nanase Katagiri and Junnosuke Tachibana, respectively) announced they had married and are expecting their first child on their respective X (formerly Twitter) accounts on Monday. Ishigami stated, “[Kohei] is a very caring person who always ...
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...
Experience Live Boxing Action at Hajime no Ippo's 1st 'Dynamite Glove' Event on November 18
7 live boxing matches to take place at manga's real-life boxing venue Korakuen Hall in Tokyo with appearance by Joji Morikawa
― You have read the manga, watched the anime, and this year, fans can get a chance to experience the world of Joji Morikawa's Hajime no Ippo manga through a live boxing event titled "Dynamite Glove 2025," on November 18 at Tokyo's Korakuen Hall — the real-life venue where many...
Cowboy Bebop Director Shinichiro Watanabe Names 100 All Time Best Movies
The #1 spot goes to a martial arts classic
― Anime director Shinichiro Watanabe released a new book, Watanabe Shinichiro no Sekai Cowboy Bebop Kara Lazarus Made (Shinichiro Watanabe's World: From Cowboy Bebop to Lazarus), to chronicle his work on several anime titles on Thursday. Included in the final pages is a list of Watanabe's top 100 movies. Bruce Lee's 1973 classic Enter the Dragon takes the to...
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...
Konami Makes Yu-Gi-Oh! Card of Shohei Ohtani's Dog
Will his dog Decoy be the key to Ohtani's Yu-Gi-Oh! deck?
― Los Angeles Dodgers star hitter and pitcher Shohei Ohtani revealed on Tuesday that he received a one-of-a-kind Yu-Gi-Oh! game card from Konami. In a video on Instagram, Ohtani opened a box from Konami. Inside was a portrait of his pet dog Decoy, a Yu-Gi-Oh! card of Decoy, and the caption, "First pitch delivered August 28, 2024." Ohtani inclu...
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...
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...
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