Ninja Hattori Voice Actress Junko Hori Dies at 89: A Heartfelt Farewell to a Legend

Junko Hori, the beloved Japanese voice actress known for her extensive work in anime and video games, has passed away at the age of 89. Her passing was announced by her talent agency, Production Baobab, earlier this week. The cause of death is attributed to old age.

A Legacy of Iconic Roles in Anime and Beyond

Hori’s death marks the loss of one of the most respected voices in the anime industry. Throughout her long career, she became widely known for her portrayal of the titular character Hattori-kun in the Ninja Hattori series, a role that brought her considerable fame. But her work didn’t stop there. Hori’s career spanned across several decades, leaving a lasting impact on both Japanese animation and international media.

In addition to her anime roles, Junko Hori also voiced several video game characters, including Sunakake Baba and Sasuke in the Gegege no Kitaro and Ganbare Goemon game series. She even dubbed roles in Western films, including To Kill a Mockingbird, Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome, and Get Your Gun, further showcasing her versatile talent.

The anime community has had a particularly difficult year, with the loss of several notable figures. In addition to Hori, fans have mourned the passing of Dragon Ball creator Akira Toriyama, Dragon Ball Z narrator Doc Harris, and Mob Psycho art director Ryo Kono, among others. These losses highlight the deep emotional connection fans feel toward the creators and voices that have shaped their favorite anime and characters.

Hori’s death adds to the sadness felt by her colleagues and fans alike. Known for her warm and professional demeanor, she was beloved not only for her iconic roles but also for her contributions to the broader world of animation.

The announcement of Hori's death came later than expected, as her family requested privacy during this difficult time. In accordance with their wishes, the wake and funeral were private, attended only by close relatives. Fans have been asked to refrain from visiting the funeral home or sending gifts, out of respect for the family's need for space during their mourning.

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Junko Hori’s Iconic Anime Credits

Hori’s career included a wide variety of roles across numerous iconic anime series. She voiced characters in Astro Boy, Cinderella Boy, Anne of Green Gables, Speed Racer, Tokyo Mew Mew, Doraemon, The Adventures of Gamba, Sindbad the Sailor, and Legend of the Mystical Ninja. Her talent and ability to bring life to her characters made her an integral part of the anime industry.

Her legacy will live on in the voices of the characters she brought to life, who continue to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide. As the anime industry reflects on her contributions, Junko Hori will always be remembered as one of the giants who helped shape the vibrant world of Japanese animation.

Fans of Junko Hori around the world have expressed their condolences, sharing fond memories of the characters she voiced and the joy she brought to their lives. While the anime community mourns her loss, Hori's legacy remains a shining example of dedication and passion in the world of voice acting.