TOKYO, OCT 11 – A Japanese actor, Nobuyo Oyama, who played the role of the voice of Doraemon, a cat cartoon loved by children in Japan and other countries, has died at the age of 90, his agency said today.
For almost 30 years until 2005, Oyama lent his husky voice to the famous blue cat character from the 22nd century with his magic pocket and a fantastic supply of gadgets, including a door that allows people to travel everywhere.
He died on September 29 of old age, his talent agency said AFP. His funeral was attended by close relatives, he said.
Doraemon is still broadcast as one of the series anime Japan which has been shown for the longest time, has been popular throughout Asia including other regions.
While Oyama’s successor has played the role for nearly 20 years, his voice remains the robot’s most influential sound for many who grew up with it.
In the Doraemon series, a cat cartoon character with a big smile travels back in time to help a lazy schoolboy named Nobita overcome the trials of everyday life.
Created by artist Fujiko F. Fujio, the character first appeared in the comics manga in 1969, making the transition to small and large screens in the following decade. – AFP
