Shohei Hino: Celebrating the Life and Legacy of a Studio Ghibli Voice Icon

Remembering Shohei Hino, the Voice Behind The Great Uncle in Studio Ghibli's The Boy and the Heron

The anime community is mourning the loss of celebrated voice actor Shohei Hino, who passed away at the age of 75. Best known for giving voice to the Great Uncle in Studio Ghibli's The Boy and the Heron, Hino's contributions to the industry spanned decades, imprinting unforgettable memories on fans and collaborators alike.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Born Koichi Nihei on May 30, 1949, in Tokyo, Japan, Hino ventured into the entertainment world as a child actor. His on-screen journey began with his debut in Kozo Saeki’s 1966 film Izukoe. It was in 1973 that he was gifted his stage name, Shohei Hino, by the esteemed novelist Shotaro Ikenami, cementing his transition into an acting legacy that would last nearly 60 years.

A Lifetime of Acting and Musical Talents

Hino had an extensive career in the entertainment industry, which included notable performances in film, television, and voice acting. His final cinematic endeavor, Last Mile, directed by Ayuko Tsukahara, premiered just this year in Japan, highlighting a distinguished career that refused to dim.

In addition to acting, Hino was also a gifted musician and took on the role of host for NHK's long-running program Kokoro Tabi (Heart’s Journey). During the show's 14-year tenure, Hino charmed viewers as he explored Japan on a bicycle, sharing stories and cultural insights with a broad audience.

The Boy and the Heron: A Studio Ghibli Highlight

In 2023, Shohei Hino brought his voice to the character of the Great Uncle in Hayao Miyazaki’s The Boy and the Heron, Studio Ghibli's latest film project. His performance in the movie added depth and warmth, which has been cherished by both audiences and critics alike. This role stands as a testament to his versatility and enduring appeal in the world of Japanese animation.

To learn more about Studio Ghibli's The Boy and the Heron, check out this comprehensive article.

A Peaceful Farewell

According to NHK, Hino’s passing followed a lumbar fracture he sustained during the summer. He passed away peacefully at home on November 14, 2024, surrounded by his family. His agency reflected on their hope for his return to work while expressing gratitude towards all who supported him throughout his illustrious career.

In Memoriam

The anime community not only mourns Shohei Hino's passing but also the recent loss of another contributor to the world of Studio Ghibli, Shuntaro Tanikawa, the lyricist for Howl's Moving Castle’s ending theme, "The Promise of the World." Tanikawa passed away at age 92.

Shohei Hino's legacy as a performer and influence in Japanese culture endures, celebrating a man who was part of entertainment history. Rest in peace, Shohei Hino and Shuntaro Tanikawa. Your legacies continue to inspire and touch the hearts of fans around the world.