Beloved Voice Actress Tomo Sakurai Dies at 53, Remembered for Iconic Anime Roles

The anime world mourns the profound loss of Tomo Sakurai, a revered voice actress whose distinctive talent breathed life into countless beloved characters. Sakurai, aged 53, tragically passed away on August 13, 2025, succumbing to complications from multiple organ cancer after a hospitalization earlier that month. Her agency confirmed the heartbreaking news, leaving fans and industry colleagues in deep sorrow.

Sakurai's illustrious career spanned decades, beginning in 1987 as an idol before she transitioned into the demanding yet rewarding field of voice acting. Her versatility knew no bounds, allowing her to portray a vast array of personalities across diverse genres, from high-octane action to heartfelt romance and mystical fantasy. She became an indispensable voice in some of anime's most iconic franchises.

Remembering Her Iconic Roles

She was perhaps most globally recognized for her unforgettable portrayal of Mylene Flare Jenius in the groundbreaking 'Macross 7' series, where her vocal performance seamlessly blended with the mecha action and musical narrative, cementing her status as a fan favorite.

Beyond 'Macross 7', Sakurai's legacy is etched in the hearts of viewers through her compelling roles as the spirited Misao Makimachi in the enduring historical samurai epic 'Rurouni Kenshin', the charming Shayla-Shayla in the fantastical 'El Hazard', and the enigmatic Meimi Haneoka in 'Kaitou Saint Tail'. More recently, a new generation of fans came to know her voice as the formidable Cynthia (Shirona) in 'Pokémon: The Arceus Chronicles', showcasing her continued impact on contemporary anime.

Her expansive filmography also includes memorable contributions as Chigusa Sakai in 'Shakugan no Shana' and roles in seminal animated features like 'Fatal Fury: The Motion Picture' and 'Gall Force: The Revolution', further demonstrating her incredible range and dedication to her craft.

A Legacy of Dedication

Despite announcing a temporary retirement in 2016 due to vocal difficulties, a testament to her unwavering passion, Sakurai made a much-anticipated return to voice acting in 2019, continuing to grace productions with her unique vocal artistry until her health unfortunately declined.

While her funeral was a private affair, her agency has conveyed immense gratitude for the outpouring of fan support and indicated that discussions for a public memorial are underway. Tomo Sakurai's indelible contributions have profoundly shaped the landscape of anime, and her captivating performances will forever resonate with audiences, ensuring her legacy endures for generations to come.