RIP Atsuko Tanaka (1962-2024)

This was not what I was intending to follow the previous post, but we have sadly lost another beloved voice actress. Atsuko Tanaka has passed away from an undisclosed illness at age 61, with her daughter Hikaru breaking the news online.

Tanaka voiced many roles in anime and video games in her life, including the Japanese voice of gym leader Lenora and Lucy of the Battle Frontier in Pokémon. Other notable roles included the original voice of Major Motoko Kusanagi in Ghost in the Shell and a recurring voice of the title character of Bayonetta. She continued voice acting until her passing; with some of her final roles including the games Sand Land and Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance.

I wish the best for Tanaka's friends, loved ones and colleagues at this difficult time. May she rest in peace.