Anime World Mourns Passing of Tomo Sakurai, Iconic Voice Behind Macross 7's Mylene and Pokémon's Cynthia

The global anime community is united in sorrow following the profound loss of Tomo Sakurai, a revered Japanese voice actress whose distinctive talent imbued iconic characters with unforgettable life and emotion. At the age of 53, Sakurai tragically passed away due to complications from multi-organ cancer, a formidable adversary she had courageously battled since her diagnosis with pancreatic cancer in August 2023. Despite an official retirement in 2016, her unwavering dedication to her artistry saw her continue to make sporadic yet significant contributions to the anime industry, leaving an indelible mark on its landscape right up to her final moments.

A Legacy of Iconic Voices

Sakurai's prolific career boasted an impressive roster of roles, with her portrayal of Mylene Flare Jenius in the seminal Macross 7 standing out as a fan favorite. She also garnered immense international acclaim for her captivating performance as Cynthia in the globally beloved Pokémon series, a character that resonated deeply with audiences across continents. Her commitment to her craft remained evident in her more recent work, including her participation in the 2024 anime Grandpa and Grandma Turn Young Again.

Her agency, Feathered, delivered the heartbreaking announcement, confirming that a private funeral service has already been conducted. Plans for a public farewell event, allowing legions of fans and colleagues to pay their respects, are expected to be unveiled in the near future.

An Enduring Impact

News of her passing has elicited an outpouring of heartfelt condolences and tributes from every corner of the anime world, a testament to her immense influence on both Japanese and global pop culture. Her agency passionately highlighted her extraordinary dedication and unwavering perseverance throughout her illness, noting her tireless efforts to recover and remain an active, vibrant presence in the entertainment sphere. Fans and industry peers alike are now mourning the departure of a truly unique voice that shaped the identities of numerous cherished characters spanning multiple genres. Tomo Sakurai leaves behind an enduring legacy, ensuring her artistry will forever be etched in anime history. Official channels have been flooded with poignant memories and images celebrating her invaluable contributions, guaranteeing that her resonant voice will continue to inspire and move fans for generations.