Atsuko Tanaka, the Japanese voice behind iconic characters like Street Fighter's Chun-Li, Lara Croft, Bayonetta, and Tess in the Japanese version of The Last of Us, has died at the age of 61.
In addition to her extensive video game credits, which include Kaine from Nier Replicant, Tanaka also had notable roles in anime and other shows, including Motoko Kusanagi in Ghost of the Shell and JoJo's Bizarre Adventure.
Tanaka's death was revealed by his son, voice actor Hikaru Tanaka, who confirmed that he died of an undisclosed illness earlier today (August 20).
“I would like to express my deepest gratitude on behalf of the fans who loved Atsuko Tanaka and the people in the industry who cared for her throughout her life,” Hikaru Tanaka said, according to a machine translation of an Oricon News article.
“It's very unfortunate that we have to announce the father-son relationship in this way.
“At his request, we will not reveal the specific name of the disease, but aside from his year-long battle with the illness, I believe he lived a typical Tanaka life: serious, dignified and a bit playful.
“I feel truly blessed to have such a proud mother.”