Veteran voice actor Kozo Shioya, known for his roles as Majin Buu in "Dragon Ball Z," Nozomi Takamiya in "Slam Dunk," and Konaki Jijii in "GeGeGe no Kitaro," passed away on January 20 at the age of 71 due to a cerebral hemorrhage. His agency, Aoni Production, made the announcement today (January 28). In accordance with his family's wishes, the funeral was held privately with close relatives.
Kozo Shioya's extensive list of representative works includes diverse and iconic characters that are instantly recognizable by voice. These include the fourth-generation Konaki Jijii from "GeGeGe no Kitaro," San Kyoeimaru from "Nintama Rantaro," Nozomi Takamiya from "Slam Dunk," Robert from "Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam," and Unagi-Inu from "Tensai Bakabon."
While his voice acting work became less frequent as he aged, he remained the beloved voice behind many characters that fans fondly remember.
Below is the full translation of the official announcement:
An actor affiliated with our company,
Kozo Shioya (aged 71),
peacefully passed away on January 20, Reiwa 8 (2026), due to a cerebral hemorrhage.
We express our deepest gratitude for the kindness and support he received during his lifetime, and we hereby inform you of his passing.
In accordance with the family's wishes, the funeral was held privately with close relatives.
We apologize for the delay in this announcement.
via： 青二Production