Kenji Ohba, the action star who famously played Gavan/Retsu Ichijouji in "Space Sheriff Gavan," also appeared in the "Super Sentai" series, and even made it to Hollywood in "Kill Bill," has passed away.
Japan Action Enterprise officially announced on May 7th that Ohba died on May 6th at the age of 72. Fans worldwide are mourning the loss of this legendary figure in action and tokusatsu entertainment.
The official statement read: "Our affiliated actor, Mr. Kenji Ohba, who had been undergoing long-term medical treatment for an illness, passed away on May 6, 2026, at the age of 72."
They also extended their gratitude: "We sincerely thank everyone for their care and kindness towards him during his lifetime. We hereby inform you that, in accordance with the wishes of his family, the wake and funeral services will be held privately among close relatives."
Kenji Ohba, inspired by the late action superstar Sonny Chiba, joined Japan Action Club (JAC) as one of its first members. Beyond acting, he was also highly active in the industry as a stuntman and action performer. The master and apprentice even appeared together in Hollywood films, with Ohba later participating in "Kill Bill Vol. 2" and its spin-off.
However, his most iconic role remains Gavan/Retsu Ichijouji in "Space Sheriff Gavan," a performance that introduced him to countless fans.
Sonny Chiba passed away in 2021 from complications of COVID-19. Kenji Ohba himself had collapsed at home in May 2018 but was fortunately rushed to the hospital and saved. Now, with both master and apprentice reunited in the heavens, fans are filled with sorrow. For many tokusatsu enthusiasts, Kenji Ohba wasn't just "Gavan"; he symbolized the spirit of action heroes from that era. His passing marks the end of an iconic tokusatsu legend.