The
beginning of 2026 is hitting us hard where it hurts the most. The anime
industry says goodbye to one of its most imposing and respected voices. Masaru
Ikeda, a veteran with more than 50 years of experience, died on January 31
at the age of 83. His agency confirmed the news recently, noting that
heart failure was the cause of his departure, leaving a huge
void in productions that marked several generations of fans.
A legacy
that transcends time
To talk
about Ikeda is to talk about authority in front of the microphone. Most will
remember him for giving life to General Revil in the
original Mobile Suit Gundam saga, a role he reprised in
multiple Universal Century installments and that made him a cult figure for
mecha fans. But his rank did not stop there; his deep and versatile voice also
gave us memorable characters such as director Koreyoshi Kitamura in Death
Note and the imposing Dr. Heinemann in the
psychological thriller Monster.
Even in
more recent series, Ikeda continued to prove that talent has no expiration
date. One Piece fans hear him as Nekomamushi,
while video game veterans immediately recognize him as Ikki Yoneda in Sakura
Wars. His agency took advantage of the statement to deeply thank the
colleagues and followers who supported him for decades, highlighting that he
worked until his last years with the same passion as the first day.
About
Masaru Ikeda
Masaru
Ikeda was not only an anime star; He was also a fundamental pillar in the world
of Japanese dubbing. He lent his voice to locate hundreds of
Hollywood movies and series, making him one of the most recognizable actors in
the country. His career began at a time when the industry was much smaller,
helping to lay the foundations of what we know today as the global anime
phenomenon. A great one is leaving, but we are left with an immense catalog of
characters that we will never forget.
