24-7-2024 (TOKYO) The Japanese entertainment industry mourns the loss of a legendary voice actress, Noriko Ohara, who breathed life into one of anime’s most iconic characters for over a quarter of a century. Ohara, best known for her portrayal of Nobita in the globally acclaimed Doraemon series, died on 12 July 2024 at the age of 88, as confirmed by her agency, 81 Produce, in a statement released on Tuesday.
The agency’s announcement, posted on their official website, read: “Our esteemed colleague, Noriko Ohara (born Noriko Tobe), succumbed to illness on 12 July 2024, despite ongoing medical treatment. In accordance with the family’s wishes, a private funeral service was held with only close relatives in attendance. We extend our deepest gratitude for the kindness and support shown to Ohara-san throughout her illustrious career.”
Ohara’s tenure as Nobita, the lovable yet hapless schoolboy in the Doraemon franchise, spanned from 1979 to 2005. Her distinctive voice characterisation of Nobita became the definitive version for millions of fans worldwide, cementing her place in the annals of anime history.
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Throughout her prolific career, which stretched over five decades, Ohara lent her vocal talents to numerous beloved characters. Notable among these were her portrayals of Peter in the classic series Heidi, Girl of the Alps, and Claudia LaSalle in the critically acclaimed Macross franchise.
In a revealing 2017 interview with Cinema Today, Ohara offered insights into the demanding nature of voice acting for Doraemon. She likened the experience to that of an athlete, saying, “Everyone got along splendidly. Working on Doraemon was akin to being a professional sportsperson. We would record seven to eight episodes in a single session, with Gian Nobita’s antagonist constantly in pursuit. It required substantial stamina and endurance.”
Ohara’s portrayal of Nobita was instrumental in bringing the character to life, capturing the essence of a clumsy yet endearing schoolboy who relies on his robotic cat friend, Doraemon, to navigate life’s challenges. Her nuanced performance contributed significantly to the series’ enduring popularity and its ability to resonate with audiences across generations.
The Doraemon franchise, which began as a manga in 1969, has grown into a cultural phenomenon, spanning animated series, films, and a wide array of merchandise. Ohara’s contribution to this beloved franchise helped solidify its place in the hearts of fans not just in Japan, but around the globe.
