[Obituary] Kenji Ohba, Star of Space Sheriff Gavan, Dies at 71; Daughter and Voice Actor Nao Wakaba Pays Tribute

Kenji Ohba (JP: 大葉健二), the actor best known for playing Retsu Ichijoji, also known as Gavan, in Space Sheriff Gavan, died on May 6. He was 71 years old. His daughter, voice actor and actress Nao Wakaba, mourned his passing in a message posted on her official X account.

Nao Wakaba Shares Emotional Message Following Kenji Ohba’s Death

Nao Wakaba announced that her father passed away at the hospital where he had been receiving treatment.

She wrote, “My father, Kenji Ohba, passed away peacefully on May 6 at the hospital where he had been undergoing treatment. To all the fans and everyone involved who loved and supported him throughout his life, I cannot fully express how grateful I am for your kindness and encouragement. Thank you so much.”

Wakaba also shared her emotional state following the sudden loss.

“I am still struggling to process everything, and many emotions are overwhelming me,” she wrote. “But I believe my father would smile and tell me, ‘Do not cry. Keep moving forward.’ So I will do my best.”

She added that she intends to treasure the love and words her father gave her throughout her life and continue carrying on his spirit through her work.

Daughter Thanks Her Father for a Lifetime of Love

In another heartfelt message, Wakaba addressed her father directly.

“Dad, first of all, thank you for all your hard work. And thank you so much for being my father.”

She also reflected on his love for gatherings and good times with friends.

“My father loved joyful drinking parties. Maybe he is still on his journey now, but once he arrives safely, I hope he can enjoy his favorite drinks and delicious food while laughing loudly and watching over us.”

The statement concluded with her gratitude to everyone who supported Kenji Ohba throughout his life and career.

Full Statement from Nao Wakaba

“To everyone who has always supported us,

As previously announced, my father, Kenji Ohba, passed away peacefully on May 6 at the hospital where he had been receiving treatment.

To all the fans and everyone involved who loved him and offered him so many encouraging words during his lifetime, I am filled with more gratitude than words can express.

Thank you very much.

I am still struggling to process this sudden event, and many emotions are overwhelming me. But I believe my father would smile and say, ‘Do not cry. Keep moving forward!’ So I will continue doing my best.

I will cherish all the love and words my father gave me, and I hope to sincerely continue each of my activities while carrying on his spirit.

Dad,

First of all, thank you so much for all your hard work. And thank you for being my father.

You loved cheerful gatherings with drinks and laughter. Perhaps you are still on your journey now, but once you arrive safely, I hope you enjoy your favorite drinks, delicious meals, and lively celebrations while watching over us with a smile.

Thank you so much.”

Source : ORICON NEWS