Nobuyo Oyama, the beloved voice actor known for bringing the character of Doraemon to life, has passed away at the age of 90. According to her agency, she died of natural causes, and her funeral was held privately by her family. Oyama voiced Doraemon for over 25 years, making the character a household name in Japan and across other Asian countries, including India.
A Storied Career
Born in Tokyo in 1933, Nobuyo Oyama began her voice acting career in 1965. Her breakthrough came with her role in the anime series Hustle Punch, which quickly gained her recognition in the industry. However, it was her portrayal of the lovable robotic cat Doraemon that truly defined her career. Starting in 1979, Oyama voiced Doraemon until 2005, when her health began to decline.
Her work in Doraemon spanned generations, touching audiences both in Japan and beyond. The series gained immense popularity, and Oyama’s distinct voice became synonymous with the character. Her legacy as Doraemon remains strong, especially in countries like India, where the show continues to be a favorite among children.
Struggles with Dementia
In 2015, Oyama’s husband, Keisuke Sagawa, revealed that she had been diagnosed with dementia, leading to her retirement from voice acting. Keisuke, a well-known television personality, stood by her until his death in 2017. Following his passing, Oyama was cared for in a retirement home by her manager. Despite her illness, she remained in stable health until her recent death.
A Lasting Legacy
Nobuyo Oyama will always be remembered for her incredible contribution to the world of anime. Her portrayal of Doraemon has left a lasting impact on fans worldwide, ensuring her legacy will live on.