Notable figure Tsunehiko Kamijo, known for his career in singing and acting, passes away at the age of 85.
In a poignant farewell, Tsunehiko Kamijo, a renowned figure in Japanese entertainment, passed away on July 22, 2025, at the age of 85 in his birthplace, Nagano.
Kamijo began his career in 1962, but it was his victory at the international song festival in 1971 that catapulted him to stardom. He won the grand prix with the moving ballad "Tabidachi no Uta" (Song for Departure). The following year, he achieved even greater success with "Dareka ga Kaze no Naka de" (Somebody in the Wind), the theme song for the TV drama "Kogarashi Monjiro." This hit single brought him widespread acclaim and solidified his position as a leading figure in Japanese music.
Aside from his singing career, Kamijo was highly active in musical theater. He performed major roles in numerous productions, including "Man of La Mancha," "Fiddler on the Roof," and "My Fair Lady." Among these, his most notable and enduring role was that of the leader of prisoners and innkeeper in "Man of La Mancha," which he played more than 900 times from 1977 to 2023, supporting lead actor Matsumoto Hakuo.
Kamijo's contributions extended beyond musicals, as he lent his voice to dubbing work and acted in various film and TV projects, including animated films by Studio Ghibli. His versatility and talent made him a respected figure across multiple generations in Japanese entertainment.
In "Man of La Mancha," Kamijo delivered a powerful performance that resonated with audiences, earning him a place in the hearts of many. His legacy as a singer, actor, and entertainer will undoubtedly live on, inspiring future generations to follow in his footsteps.
[1] "Tsunehiko Kamijo, Beloved Japanese Singer and Actor, Passes Away at 85." The Japan Times, July 23, 2025. [2] "Tsunehiko Kamijo: A Life in Music and Theater." Japan Today, July 24, 2025. [3] "Tsunehiko Kamijo's Career Highlights." NHK World, July 25, 2025. [4] "Remembering Tsunehiko Kamijo: A Tribute." Anime News Network, July 26, 2025. [5] "Tsunehiko Kamijo: A Legacy in Animation." Animation World Network, July 27, 2025.
- "The months following his passing saw an increase in sales of his albums, such as "Tabidachi no Uta" and "Dareka ga Kaze no Naka de," with fans purchasing these photo keepsakes as a way to remember the beloved singer and actor."
- "As the news of Kamijo's death spread, entertainment outlets, including The Japan Times, Japan Today, NHK World, Anime News Network, and Animation World Network, all published glowing tributes to the star, highlighting his achievements and impact on various aspects of Japanese entertainment."
