Naoki Bando Obituary, Cause of Death – Veteran Japanese Voice Actor Dies at 69
TOKYO, Japan — The Japanese entertainment industry and international anime and gaming communities are mourning the death of veteran voice actor Naoki Bando, who passed away on September 28, 2026, at the age of 69 while receiving medical treatment.
Bando was born on December 12, 1957, in Hokkaido, Japan, and built a career spanning more than four decades. Known for his versatility and distinctive vocal performances, he became associated with numerous memorable characters across anime, video games, and Japanese-language dubbing.
Among his notable anime roles was Gatō in Naruto, as well as Elder Centipede in One-Punch Man. He also contributed to the popular Yo-kai Watch franchise, voicing characters including Robonyan and Manjimutt (Jinmenken).
His work extended beyond television animation into major video game productions. Bando provided the voice of Lord Emon in Shadow of the Colossus and Quint Cetcham in Resident Evil: Revelations. His career also included Japanese dubbing work for international animated and live-action productions.
Production Ace Confirms Death
Bando’s talent agency, Production Ace, formally announced his death in an official statement released on October 2, 2026.
According to the agency, Bando died peacefully on September 28 while undergoing medical treatment. Production Ace expressed gratitude for his long professional career and the contributions he made to the entertainment industry, including his work and mentorship over the years.
The agency also confirmed that private funeral services were conducted by close family members in accordance with Bando’s wishes.
Cause of Death
The specific medical cause of Naoki Bando’s death has not been publicly disclosed. His agency confirmed that he was undergoing medical treatment when he died but did not release further medical details, citing respect for the family’s privacy.
Anime and Gaming Community Pays Tribute
Following the announcement, tributes began emerging from colleagues, production professionals, voice actors, and fans in Japan and around the world.
Those familiar with Bando’s career have remembered him for his professionalism, humor, vocal versatility, and ability to portray a wide range of characters. His performances included heroes, villains, creatures, and supporting characters, allowing his voice to become part of numerous anime and gaming experiences enjoyed by audiences across generations.
For fans of anime and video games, Bando’s extensive body of work represents a career that helped bring fictional characters to life through his distinctive performances.
His death marks the loss of a veteran performer whose career stretched across more than 40 years. Family members, colleagues, and fans continue to remember his contribution to Japanese entertainment and extend condolences to those closest to him.
