Naoki Bando – Death, Obituary – Japan – Veteran Voice Actor Passes Away at 69
The entertainment industry is mourning the loss of Japanese voice actor Naoki Bando, who has passed away at the age of 69, leaving behind a remarkable career that spanned anime, video games, and international dubbing.
Naoki Bando was widely respected for his versatility, bringing to life a wide range of characters across different genres and generations. His voice became familiar to audiences through both iconic anime roles and performances in global productions adapted for Japanese audiences.
Among his most recognized roles were Gatō in Naruto, Elder Centipede in One-Punch Man, and Lord Emon in Shadow of the Colossus. He also played multiple characters in Yo-kai Watch, including Manjimutt (Jinmenken), Robonyan Type-F, and Gargaros (Aka Oni).
His work extended into video games and western animation dubbing, where he voiced characters such as Quint Cetcham in Resident Evil: Revelations, Vargas Dyson in Mobile Suit Gundam AGE, and roles in titles like The Rugrats Movie and Batman: The Brave and the Bold.
Bando’s ability to transition seamlessly between villainous roles, comedic characters, and powerful creatures made him a standout figure in voice acting. His performances contributed to stories that reached audiences across cultures and generations.
Tributes continue to pour in from fans and colleagues who remember him not just for his talent, but for the lasting impact of the characters he brought to life. His legacy endures through the many worlds and stories shaped by his voice.
