In a heartfelt announcement, the Japan Academy Film Prize Association revealed the winners of the 48th Japan Academy Film Prize on Tuesday. Among those honored were the beloved voice actors of the Doraemon franchise, Noriko Ohara and Nobuyo Ōyama, who were awarded the Chairman’s Special Award.
This special recognition is typically given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the film industry, particularly those who are no longer with us.
Noriko Ohara, who voiced the iconic character Nobita, brought the character to life in various
Doraemon television series and films from 1979 to 2005. Sadly, Ohara passed away on July 12, 2024, after battling an illness. She was 88 years old at the time of her death. In addition to her role in Doraemon, Ohara lent her voice to other popular characters, including Conan in Future Boy Conan and Doronjo in the Yatterman series.
She also voiced Peter in Heidi – A Girl of the Alps and Oyuki in the 1981 series Urusei Yatsura. Notably, she portrayed both Hiyoshi Gō and Ri Katherine in the classic series Voltes V.
On the other hand, Nobuyo Ōyama was the voice behind Doraemon himself in the same series from 1979 to 2005.
She passed away on September 29, 2024, at the age of 90, due to senility. Ōyama’s contributions to anime were vast. She voiced Katsuo Isono in the Sazae-san anime from 1969 to 1970 and played Minota in Oniku Daisuki! Zeushi-kun. Additionally, she was known for her role as Monokuma in the Danganronpa series, for which she also performed the catchy song “Monokuma Ondo.”
In 2016, TARAKO took over her role in the Danganronpa franchise.
Looking ahead, the winners of the other categories in the 48th Japan Academy Film Prize will be announced on January 21, with the awards ceremony scheduled for March 14 in Tokyo.
The recognition of Ohara and Ōyama highlights their lasting impact on the animation industry, and their voices will continue to resonate with fans for years to come.
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