Noted singer-actor Tsunehiko Kamijo, aged 85, passes away in Japan.
Tsunehiko Kamijo: A Legendary Figure in Japanese Entertainment
Tsunehiko Kamijo, a renowned singer, actor, and voice actor, was born on March 7, 1940, in Nagano Prefecture, Japan. His career spanned over six decades, leaving an indelible mark on the Japanese entertainment industry.
Kamijo began his singing career in 1962 and gained significant recognition in 1971 when he won the Grand Prize at the 2nd World Popular Song Festival for his song "Tabidachi no Uta" ("Song for Departure"). This victory catapulted him to fame, and he went on to perform the hit theme song "Dareka ga Kaze no Naka de" for the 1972 television period drama Kogarashi Monjiro.
In addition to his success in music, Kamijo also made a name for himself in voice acting. His memorable roles included the manager in Studio Ghibli's Spirited Away, Gonza in Princess Mononoke, Mamma Aiuto Boss in Porco Rosso, Boss in Kentauros no Densetsu, Cash in Doraemon the Movie: Nobita's Great Adventure in the South Seas, Sebastian in the Japanese dub of Disney's The Little Mermaid, and Alan-a-Dale in Disney's Robin Hood Japanese version.
On stage, Kamijo was known for his extensive performances in major musicals such as Man of La Mancha, Fiddler on the Roof, Cabaret, My Fair Lady, Twelfth Night, and Zorro. His most notable role was the prison warden and innkeeper in Man of La Mancha, which he played for 948 performances from 1977 until 2023.
Television roles included appearances in popular series such as 3-Nen B-Gumi Kinpachi-sensei; his last television work was in 2014 with Trick Shinsaku Special 3.
Tragically, Tsunehiko Kamijo passed away on July 22, 2025, at the age of 85 due to senility at a hospital near his home in Nagano Prefecture. His funeral was held privately with close family.
Kamijo's versatile talents across singing, acting, and voice acting made him a well-respected figure in Japanese entertainment. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of artists to come.
Career Highlights:
- Singer debut in 1962; Grand Prize winner of the World Popular Song Festival in 1971.
- Hit TV theme song Dareka ga Kaze no Naka de for Kogarashi Monjiro (1972).
- Voice acting in multiple acclaimed Studio Ghibli films.
- Long-running stage actor with nearly 1,000 performances in Man of La Mancha.
- Roles in television dramas and popular series.
During his illustrious career, Tsunehiko Kamijo not only appeared in widely-acclaimed television series but also lent his voice to several celebrated Studio Ghibli films, such as Spirited Away and Princess Mononoke. Moreover, his captivating performances in hit songs like "Dareka ga Kaze no Naka de" ensured his status as a renowned entertainer, regularly seen on the cover of music magazines and entertainment tabloids featuring photos of celebrities.
