Hideo Kojima and Others Honor Akihiro Miwa, Iconic Japanese Singer and

Japanese news sources including Mainichi announced over the weekend that iconic Japanese singer and actor Akihiro Miwa passed away aged 91 on June 20.

Akihiro Miwa, known for his roles in Studio Ghibli's Princess Mononoke and Howl's Moving Castle, was a versatile artist with a career spanning over seven decades. From cabaret singer to openly gay celebrity, Miwa's impact on Japanese entertainment was profound. He was a survivor of the Nagasaki Atomic Bomb and a vocal advocate for peace.

Aside from his voice acting work, Miwa appeared on various TV shows and continued performing until 2019. His message of love as the solution to global issues resonated with many, leaving a lasting impact on the industry. Voice actors, including Megumi Ogata and Fumi Hirano, shared how Miwa's words inspired and uplifted them throughout their careers.

Hideo Kojima, the renowned creator of Metal Gear Solid and Death Stranding, paid tribute to Miwa by considering revisiting some of the actor's iconic works. Miwa's influence extended beyond Japan, touching the lives of artists and creators worldwide.