Ghost in the Shell Creators Mourn the Passing of Atsuko Tanaka, Voice of Major Motoko Kusanagi: "A Silent yet Powerful Presence," "A One-of-a-Kind Character, the Major"

The official Ghost in the Shell X (formerly Twitter) account was updated to announce the passing of Atsuko Tanaka, the voice actress who portrayed the protagonist, Major Motoko Kusanagi, in the anime.

Tanaka, who voiced the main character, was remembered in the post: "We are saddened to report that Atsuko Tanaka, who portrayed Major Motoko Kusanagi in the Ghost in the Shell anime series, has passed away."

The post continued, "Since her iconic role in the 1995 film GHOST IN THE SHELL, Tanaka-san brought the one-of-a-kind character of the Major to life in numerous Ghost in the Shell series, including Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex, with a quiet yet powerful presence and a unique charm. We express our deepest gratitude and offer our heartfelt condolences."

Production I.G, the animation studio behind Ghost in the Shell, also posted on X, stating: "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Atsuko Tanaka, who continuously portrayed Major Motoko Kusanagi since the original GHOST IN THE SHELL. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for her many contributions and offer our deepest condolences."

Kouichi Yamadera, who voiced Togusa, one of the main characters in Ghost in the Shell, expressed his grief on X: "Atsuko Tanaka was a dear friend, and I am overwhelmed with sadness. We shared so many memories during Ghost in the Shell. It’s painful to think that I can no longer call her 'Major.'"

He continued, "Just 10 days ago, I was able to speak with her directly. She was beautiful, strong, kind, and incredible right to the end. Thank you for everything, Acchan. You did well."

Atsuko Tanaka was also known for dubbing the voices of stars like Nicole Kidman and Jennifer Lopez. Her notable roles in anime included Major Motoko Kusanagi in Ghost in the Shell, Lisa Lisa in JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, Misuzu Suenaga in Salaryman Kintaro, Caster in Fate/stay night, Hanami in Jujutsu Kaisen, and Flamme in Frieren: Beyond Journey's End, among others.

Source : ORICON NEWS