Kapanlagi.com - Sad news comes from the Japanese voice acting industry, which has produced so many iconic characters in the world of anime. Renowned Japanese voice actress, Masako Ikeda, is reported to have just breathed her last after decades of career, leaving a deep mark in the entertainment industry of the Land of the Rising Sun.
The name Masako Ikeda is not unfamiliar to anime lovers, especially those who follow various legendary works from the classic to modern era. Her distinctive voice has brought to life various important characters, including in popular anime such as GUNDAM and also the series featuring the legendary combat unit VALKYRA.
The passing of Masako Ikeda is certainly a great loss for the world of anime and for fans who grew up with the characters she portrayed. Here is the complete news regarding her career journey and the great legacy left by the legendary Japanese voice actress, as reported by KapanLagi from various sources.
1. Sad News from Haikyo Agency

ikeda with cream hair/rottentomatoes.com
The Haikyo voice acting agency officially announced the sad news of the passing of Masako Ikeda. This voice acting legend passed away on March 3, 2026, as summarized by KapanLagi from crunchyroll.
The cause of death was a sudden brain hemorrhage at the age of 87. The official announcement was made by Haikyo on March 13, 2026, shocking many parties.
2. Private Final Tribute
The final tribute ceremony and burial for Masako Ikeda was held privately. Only close relatives attended, in accordance with the family's wishes.
The Haikyo agency expressed sincere gratitude for the support over the years. The statement also emphasized deep appreciation for the guidance and encouragement provided.
3. The Career Journey of a Child Actress to Hollywood Dubber

ikeda laughs freely/myanimelist.com
Masako Ikeda was born in Tokyo on January 1, 1939, and began her career as a child actress in 1949. She has been active in television and stage dramas, showcasing her talent from a young age.
Her voice acting skills are highly regarded, especially when dubbing for Hollywood actresses like Audrey Hepburn and Meryl Streep. Her dedication to narration has also become her standout expertise.
4. Anime Voice Icon
Masako Ikeda's career in the anime world began in the 1960s, participating in classic works such as KIMBA THE WHITE LION and ASTRO BOY. For over 70 years, she has left an invaluable legacy.
She is best known for her role as Maetel in the series GALAXY EXPRESS 999, which started in 1978. Maetel has become one of the most iconic female heroes in the history of Japanese anime that she brought to life.
5. Contribution in GUNDAM and VALKYRIA REVOLUTION

smiling white shirt/myanimelist.com
Besides Maetel, Masako Ikeda is also widely known for her contributions to the GUNDAM franchise, where she voiced the mother of the main character Amuro Ray. This role showcases her versatility across various genres.
She also lent her voice to the game VALKYRIA REVOLUTION, expanding her work into the video game industry. Her presence in GUNDAM and VALKYRIA REVOLUTION proves her extensive influence.
6. Achievement Award
For her dedication and contributions, Masako Ikeda received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 1st Voice Acting Awards in 2007. This award serves as recognition of her remarkable career.
She also received an award in the Achievement category at the Tokyo Anime Award Festival 2020. These various awards solidify her position as a legend in the Japanese voice acting industry.
7. An Unforgettable Voice Legacy

wearing black/animenewsnetwork
Masako Ikeda is not just a voice actress, but an artist who brings every character to life with her distinctive voice. Her voice has become an inseparable part of many people's childhood memories.
Her dedication over the decades has inspired many generations, both behind the scenes and in front of the microphone. Her voice legacy will continue to be remembered and appreciated by fans around the world.
Masako Ikeda's passing is a great loss for the Japanese entertainment world and global anime fans. However, her works will continue to live on and inspire. Farewell, Masako Ikeda, your legacy is eternal.
8. FAQ
Who is Masako Ikeda? Masako Ikeda is a legendary Japanese voice actress known for her roles in various anime, including as Amuro Ray's mother in GUNDAM, a character in VALKYRIA REVOLUTION, Maetel in GALAXY EXPRESS 999, as well as the voice of Audrey Hepburn and Meryl Streep in the Japanese dubbing versions.
When and how did Masako Ikeda pass away? Masako Ikeda passed away on March 3, 2026, at the age of 87 due to a brain hemorrhage. This sad news was announced by the Haikyo agency on March 13, 2026.
What are some of Masako Ikeda's iconic roles in anime and games? In addition to being known as the voice of Amuro Ray's mother in the GUNDAM franchise and a character in the game VALKYRIA REVOLUTION, Masako Ikeda is also iconic for her role as Maetel in the GALAXY EXPRESS 999 series.
What awards has Masako Ikeda received? She received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 1st Voice Acting Awards in 2007 and the Achievement Award at the Tokyo Anime Award Festival in 2020.
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Disclaimer: This translation from Bahasa Indonesia to English has been generated by Artificial Intelligence.