Nobuyo Oyama, the legendary Japanese voice actress renowned for voicing the beloved robotic cat Doraemon in the iconic anime series, has passed away at the age of 90. Her death was confirmed by her family, though the cause has not yet been publicly disclosed.
Oyama’s portrayal of Doraemon, the time-traveling cat from the future, made her a household name and a central figure in the lives of millions of fans worldwide. She voiced the character for over 30 years, from the anime’s debut in 1973 through its modern iterations, continuing her work even as the series became a global phenomenon.
Throughout her career, Oyama became synonymous with Doraemon‘s voice, lending the character a distinct, playful, and comforting tone that resonated deeply with audiences of all ages. Her work was not limited to Doraemon; she also voiced several other characters in a wide range of anime, video games, and commercials, but Doraemon remained her signature role.
Born on November 10, 1933, in Koshigaya, Saitama, Oyama began her career in the 1950s and quickly gained recognition for her versatile voice work. She was known for her ability to bring warmth, humor, and emotional depth to her characters, and her contributions to the anime industry were widely respected by peers and fans alike.
Fans and fellow artists have expressed an outpouring of tributes to Oyama on social media, reflecting on her immense influence on Japanese pop culture and her enduring legacy in the world of animation. Many consider her one of the most iconic voices in anime history.
Nobuyo Oyama’s legacy will live on in the hearts of fans and through the enduring popularity of Doraemon, whose adventures continue to entertain new generations of viewers around the world.