Voice actor Taiki Matsuno has passed away at the age of 56. Known for his role as Hajime Kindaichi in the anime “Kindaichi Shonen no Jikenbo,” Matsuno suddenly passed away from a right cerebral hemorrhage on June 26, with his agency, Aoni Production, announcing the news on their official website on the 27th. This sad news prompted an outpouring of condolences on social media from many of his colleagues and co-stars, including the original author of “Kindaichi Shonen no Jikenbo,” Seimaru Amagi. Matsuno’s unexpected death has sent shockwaves through the anime industry, as fans and peers alike mourn his passing and honor his significant contributions.
A Beloved Voice Actor’s Sudden Departure
Matsuno Taiki, renowned for his iconic role as Kindaichi Hajime in the anime “Kindaichi Shonen no Jikenbo,” passed away on the 26th of June due to a right cerebral hemorrhage. The news was confirmed by his agency, Aoni Production, on their official website on the 27th. Matsuno’s sudden demise at the age of 56 has left the anime and voice acting community in profound grief.
Heartfelt Tributes from Colleagues and Creators
The original author of “Kindaichi Shonen no Jikenbo,” Amagi Seimaru, expressed his deep sorrow on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “I can’t believe it. I don’t want to believe it. I can’t hear it anymore. That catchphrase of yours… ‘I swear on my grandfather’s name!’ My heartfelt condolences. May you rest in peace, Matsuno-kun.”
Iizuka Mayumi, who voices Hayami Reika in “Kindaichi Shonen no Jikenbo,” reminisced, “Matsuno-san… At the Kindaichi studio, you were always kind and cheerful, and a really reliable and beloved senior. I still can’t accept it, and my emotions are overflowing. Kindaichi-kun, we’ll meet again someday. Until then, please watch over everyone.”
Ikezawa Haruna, who voices Kindaichi Fuzo, lamented, “There are still many mysteries that have yet to be solved.”
Career Highlights and Contributions
Born on October 16th in Tokyo, Matsuno Taiki’s career spanned numerous popular roles. He was known for voicing Banjome Jun in “Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters GX,” Kouga in “Inuyasha,” and SpongeBob Squarepants in the Japanese dub. His contributions to the anime industry are cherished by fans and colleagues alike.
Mourning from the Anime Community
Aoni Production shared the heartbreaking news, expressing the collective sadness of the voice acting world. Furukawa Toshio, known for his role as Piccolo in “Dragon Ball Z” and a fellow Aoni Production member, wrote on X, “I am shocked by the sudden passing of Matsuno Taiki, my fellow Aoni Production colleague. We had many opportunities to work together every day, such as working as voice actors and training the next generation at Aoni Juku Tokyo School, and we were close friends for many years. We would like to express our deepest condolences. It’s the wrong order, it’s too early, it’s too early, Taiki-chan…”
Cherished Memories and Lasting Impact
Kondo Takayuki, who plays Oishi Shuuichirou in “The Prince of Tennis,” expressed his gratitude, “We performed together on stage many times during our time in the theater company, and I still vividly recall the words of praise you showered on me, a total novice. I received words that were beyond my imagination as a rookie. I will never forget that scene.”
Oki Kanae, who voices Aoi Minamo in “RD: Submersible Investigation Room,” could not hide her surprise, saying, “Matsuno-san, is that true…? Yesterday, Umezawa-san and the others were talking about having a Fresh Prince get-together, and today I was discussing plans with Berry, Pine, and Passion…I never thought I’d never see you again, Matsuno-san. There was so much I wanted to talk to you about, Matsuno-san!”
An Irreplaceable Presence
Iwata Mitsuo, who played Takeuchi Itsuki in “Initial D,” shared his sorrow, “I am so sorry,” and reminisced, “We were the same age and had been friends since we were child actors. He was in Himawari and I was in Komadori, and we would call each other ‘Iwaccho’ and ‘Matsuno-kun’ and we often worked on the same set and became voice actors together. I pray from the bottom of my heart that he may rest in peace.”
Matsuno Taiki’s passing is a significant loss to the anime industry. His voice brought life to many beloved characters, and his presence will be deeply missed. The outpouring of tributes from his peers highlights the profound impact he had on those around him and the legacy he leaves behind.
Matsuno Taiki’s death marks a poignant moment for anime fans worldwide. His distinctive voice and memorable performances have left an indelible mark on the industry. As fans and colleagues mourn his loss, they also celebrate the rich legacy he leaves behind, ensuring that his contributions to the world of anime will never be forgotten.
