Unfortunately, the entertainment industry is in mourning. This morning, the passing of Atsuko Tanakaa renowned Japanese voice actress who worked on prominent anime and video game franchises, such as Bayonetta, Naruto, Cowboy Bebop, Jujutsu Kaisen and many more.
Hikaru Tanaka announced the news of her mother’s death on social media. The creative passed away at the age of 61 after losing a battle of more than 1 year against an illness that was not revealed. Her family and fans published various messages to say goodbye and thank her for all her work.
Anime and video game fans say goodbye to Atsuko Tanaka
The voice actress gave life to prominent characters
Atsuko Tanaka was a renowned voice actress who brought to life important video game and anime characters throughout her career. In addition to giving life to Bayonetta, she gave life to Motoko Kusanagi (Ghost in the Shell), Konan (Naruto), Coffee (Cowboy Bebop), Lisa Lisa (JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure), Hanami (Jujutsu Kaisen) and many more.
Her career began in 1983 as Matsumoto Kaori (Captain Tsubasa). He participated in notable animated series and also had an important career in video games. He worked in sagas such as Final Fantasy, Call of Duty, Street Fighter, Splinter Cell, New Megami Tensei and others.
“I would like to express my deepest gratitude on behalf of the fans who loved Atsuko Tanaka and the people in the industry who cared for her throughout her life (…) Due to her wishes, we will not reveal the specific name of her illness, but taking into account her year-long battle with it, I believe she lived a typical Tanaka life – serious, dignified, and a little playful,” her son wrote on social media.
Fans of his work and characters also posted messages thanking him for all his contributions to the entertainment industry and highlighting key moments in his career, which left a mark on many fans of video games and Japanese animation.
Atsuko Tanaka passed away at the age of 61
At LEVEL UP we send our condolences to the family and loved ones of Atsuko Tanaka. We also hope that the director finds peace in his final resting place.