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| Veteran Voice Actress Tomo Sakurai Passes Away at 53, Leaving a Lasting Mark on Anime |
The anime world is in mourning today as veteran voice actress Tomo Sakurai has sadly passed away at the age of 53. The news was confirmed on August 13 via her agency and official X account. Sakurai had been urgently hospitalised on August 4 due to worsening symptoms of multi-organ cancer, but tragically, her condition did not improve.
Fans remember Sakurai not only for her immense talent but also for her courage and resilience. She had initially retired from the entertainment industry in 2016, citing difficulties with her voice, which she described as a challenge too great to continue performing.
Yet in 2019, she made a triumphant return to voice acting, delighting audiences once again. Most recently, she gained renewed attention for voicing Cynthia in the Pokémon anime series, a role that introduced her to a whole new generation of fans.
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In a heartfelt statement, her agency expressed deep gratitude for the messages of support and encouragement she received during her illness, while also sharing their sorrow over her passing.
“Tomo Sakurai always approached her treatment and recovery with positivity and determination,” the statement read.
“It is heartbreaking that despite these efforts, she has left us. We sincerely thank everyone who supported her and apologise for any distress caused.”
Tomo Sakurai’s funeral will be private, attended only by close family members, though a fan memorial event may be held in the future.
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In light of her passing, her scheduled appearance at the “TOMO Summer 2025 Live” event has been cancelled, with ticket refunds being processed.
Her career in the spotlight began in 1987 when she debuted as part of the idol unit Lemon Angel. She later transitioned to voice acting, leaving an indelible mark on the industry with iconic roles such as Mylene Jenius in Macross 7, Meimi Haneoka/Saint Tail in Kaitou Saint Tail, and Misao Makimachi in Rurouni Kenshin. Beyond anime, Sakurai also lent her voice to foreign film dubbing, showcasing her versatility and skill.
Colleagues, fans, and the wider anime community are mourning her loss, remembering her not just for her distinctive voice but also for her dedication, warmth, and passion that inspired many over decades in the industry.
Tomo Sakurai’s legacy will continue to resonate through her characters and performances, marking her as one of the most beloved voice actresses of her generation.