Japanese Voice Actor Naoki Bando Passes Away at Age 69
TOKYO, Japan — The international anime, gaming, and performing arts communities are mourning the passing of veteran Japanese voice actor Naoki Bando, who died on September 28, 2026, at the age of 69 while undergoing medical treatment. Born on December 12, 1957, in Hokkaido, Japan, Bando built an acclaimed career spanning over four decades in the entertainment industry. Renowned for his impressive vocal range and versatility, he voiced memorable characters in iconic anime series, including Gatō in Naruto, Elder Centipede in One-Punch Man, and several key figures in the Yo-kai Watch franchise such as Robonyan and Manjimutt (Jinmenken). His work extended to major video games—notably voicing Lord Emon in Shadow of the Colossus and Quint Cetcham in Resident Evil: Revelations—as well as Japanese dubbing for international animated and live-action releases. Official Agency Statement and Funeral DetailsBando's talent agency, Production Ace, formally announced his passing on October 2, 2026, via an official press notice. The agency confirmed that Bando died peacefully on September 28 while undergoing medical treatment. Expressing profound gratitude for his decades of professional contributions and mentorship, Production Ace confirmed that private funeral services were held by close family members in accordance with his wishes. Specific medical details regarding the exact cause of death have been withheld out of respect for family privacy. Industry Tributes and Fan Condolences
Published by Global Report Center
TOKYO, Japan — The international anime, gaming, and performing arts communities are mourning the passing of veteran Japanese voice actor Naoki Bando, who died on September 28, 2026, at the age of 69 while undergoing medical treatment. Born on December 12, 1957, in Hokkaido, Japan, Bando built an acclaimed career spanning over four decades in the entertainment industry. Renowned for his impressive vocal range and versatility, he voiced memorable characters in iconic anime series, including Gatō in Naruto, Elder Centipede in One-Punch Man, and several key figures in the Yo-kai Watch franchise such as Robonyan and Manjimutt (Jinmenken). His work extended to major video games—notably voicing Lord Emon in Shadow of the Colossus and Quint Cetcham in Resident Evil: Revelations—as well as Japanese dubbing for international animated and live-action releases. Official Agency Statement and Funeral Details
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