Mahito Tsujimura

Mahito Tsujimura was a prolific Japanese actor and voice actor whose career spanned more than seven decades, beginning in the post‑war era and extending into the digital age. Born on April 14, 1930, in Tokyo, Japan, he entered the entertainment world in 1947, quickly establishing himself as a versatile talent capable of moving seamlessly between live‑action tokusatsu, television drama, and animated voice work. His early breakthrough came with roles in classic tokusatsu series such as Ultra Seven and the original Kamen Rider, where he portrayed a parade of memorable monsters and alien antagonists, showcasing his ability to imbue even the most outlandish characters with personality. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Tsujimura expanded into voice acting for anime, contributing iconic performances as the Great Chief in Galaxy Express 999, the King in Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, and the dignified Dai Kaiōshin in Dragon Ball Z. He continued to lend his resonant voice to later hits like One Piece (as Banban) and Negima, proving his adaptability across generations of animation. In addition to television, his filmography includes significant roles in live‑action movies such as Tampopo (1985) and A Taxing Woman (1987), as well as voice work for internationally acclaimed video games like Arc the Lad and Virtua Fighter series, where his portrayal of characters such as Shun Di left a lasting impression on gamers worldwide. Mahito Tsujimura remained active until shortly before his death on November 27, 2018, a testament to his enduring passion for performance. Represented by 81 Produce, he is remembered not only for his extensive body of work but also for his professionalism and the warm, mentor‑like presence he brought to studios and sets. His legacy lives on through the countless characters he embodied, influencing both peers and newer generations of voice actors in Japan and beyond.