The Japanese voice actressAtsuko Tanakahas passed away at the age of 61. Over her career, which began in the early ’90s, Tanaka lent her voice to numerous iconic characters in anime and video games.
Her first credited role in anime wasMobile Suit Victory Gundam, where she voiced the character Juca Mellasch. In the same year, she made her video game debut, voicing Lisa in the Japanese dub of the Sega CD gameNight Trap. From there, she became a fixture in the industry, contributing her voice to over 160 video games.
The sad news of Tanaka’s passing was announced on August 07, 2025, by her son,Hikaru Tanaka, also a voice actor, viaX/Twitter. He revealed that she had been battling an undisclosed illness for a year.
Hikaru shared a heartfelt note, expressing gratitude for the support his mother received throughout her career. “In accordance with her wishes, I will refrain from disclosing the specific illness she had,” he wrote, per a machine translation.
“However, she faced her fight, including about a year of battling her illness, with dignity, seriousness, and a bit of her characteristic sharpness, in a way that truly embodied the life of Atsuko Tanaka.” He also asked fans to remember the characters and projects she poured her love into.
Atsuko Tanaka Leaves Behind A Lasting Legacy
Atsuko Tanaka is best known for several major roles in video games and anime. She famously portrayedMotoko Kusanagiin theGhost in the Shellfilms and series.
Her work extended to other well-known franchises, including her role asBayonettain theBayonettaseries and as one of the voices ofChun-Liin twoStreet Fightergames. Additionally, she voicedLisa LisainJoJo’s Bizarre Adventure,KonaninNaruto,CasterinFate/stay night, andHanamiinJujutsu Kaisen.
Her most recent video game work includes voicingRhinedottirinGenshin ImpactandLara Croftin theTomb Raiderseries. She also reprised her role asHanamiinJujutsu Kaisen: Cursed Clash.
Even in 2024, Tanaka remained active in anime. Her final roles includeRoseinThe Wrong Way to Use Healing Magic,KunusinBrave Bang Bravern!, andŌmurasaki no OmaeinYatagarasu: The Raven Does Not Choose Its Master.
Atsuko Tanaka’s contributions to the world of voice acting in anime and games have left a mark that will ensure her voice and powerful performances will be remembered by fans around the globe.
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