Taiki Matsuno, known for his role as Hajime Kindaichi in the anime The Kindaichi Case Files, passed away on the 26th due to a right cerebral hemorrhage. He was 56 years old. His agency, Aoni Production, announced the news on their official website on the 27th. The sudden news of his death has led to an outpouring of condolences from the voice acting community.

Mitsuo Iwata, a long-time friend of the same age, wrote on his X (formerly Twitter), "I am deeply saddened. We have been friends since our child actor days, with him at Himawari Theatre Group and me at Komadori Theatre Group. We called each other 'Iwacho' and 'Matsuno-kun,' often ending up on the same projects and both becoming voice actors. I sincerely pray for his soul."

Shigeru Chiba, known for his role as Buggy in "One Piece," expressed his shock, saying, "I am surprised by the sudden news of Taiki Matsuno's passing. It's too soon... I sincerely pray for his soul."
Toshio Furukawa, known for his role as Piccolo in "Dragon Ball," shared his condolences, "I am shocked by the sudden news of my fellow Aoni Production colleague, Taiki Matsuno's passing. We had many opportunities to work together, both as voice actors and at Aoni Juku Tokyo, where he was dedicated to training the next generation. We had a long and close relationship. I express my deepest condolences. It's too soon, way too soon, Taiki-chan..."

Mayumi Iizuka, who played Reika Hayami in "The Kindaichi Case Files," reminisced, "Matsuno-san... You were always so kind and cheerful in the Kindaichi studio. You were a truly reliable and beloved senior. I still can't accept it, and my thoughts are overflowing. Kindaichi-kun, we'll meet again someday, right? Until then, please watch over us."

His agency reported, "Our company member, Taiki Matsuno (56), passed away on June 26, 2024, due to a right cerebral hemorrhage. We deeply appreciate your kindness towards him during his life and respectfully inform you of his passing. The wake and funeral will be held privately at the request of his family. We appreciate your understanding."

Born on October 16 in Tokyo, Matsuno was known for his roles as Hajime Kindaichi in "The Kindaichi Case Files," Jun Manjoume in Yu-Gi-Oh! GX, Koga in Inuyasha, and SpongeBob in "SpongeBob SquarePants."

Source : ORICON NEWS