Voice actor Tomo Sakurai has passed away at the age of 53, as announced by her agency Feathered and her official X account. She was urgently hospitalized on August 4 due to worsening symptoms of multi-organ cancer but passed away on August 13.

Sakurai had once retired from the entertainment industry but later returned, attracting renewed attention in recent years for her role as Cynthia in the anime Pokémon.

On X, the statement read:
“Tomo Sakurai was urgently hospitalized on August 4 after her condition, which had been under treatment for multi-organ cancer, suddenly worsened. Despite receiving medical care, her symptoms did not improve, and with great regret, we announce that she passed away on August 13. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for all the kind messages and support she received during her lifetime.”

The agency also added:
“She fought bravely alongside us with the hope of a full recovery, but this outcome leaves us with deep sorrow and regret. To all who supported her, we offer our sincere apologies.”

Her funeral will be held privately among close relatives. Feathered stated, “We kindly ask that inquiries and coverage regarding the funeral be refrained from. A farewell gathering for fans may be arranged at a later date.”

They also issued a notice about ticket refunds for the canceled “TOMO Summer 2025 Live!” originally scheduled for August 17, reminding attendees to check their email for refund instructions.

Sakurai made her entertainment debut in 1987 as a member of the three-girl idol unit Lemon Angel. She later transitioned to voice acting, earning acclaim for roles such as Mylene Jenius in Macross 7, Meimi Haneoka/Saint Tail in Kaitou Saint Tail, and Misao Makimachi in Rurouni Kenshin. She also worked extensively in dubbing foreign films.

In September 2016, she suddenly announced her retirement, citing difficulties with her voice:
“I feel that my important voice as an actor has become much harder to produce. As a voice actress, I cannot endure these changes.”

However, she resumed activities in 2019, with her performance as Cynthia in Pokémon gaining major recognition.

Tomo Sakurai, Pioneer of the “Idol Voice Actress” Era — A Central Figure in the 1990s Voice Actor Boom, Remembered for Her Grace and Charisma

Source : ORICON NEWS