Voice actor Nagai Ichiro, known for his role as Isono Namihei in Japan's national anime "Sazae-san", passed away on January 27 at a hospital in Hiroshima City at the age of 82. The news was announced on the official website of his agency, Aoni Production.

According to the announcement, Nagai had been at the broadcast station in Hiroshima for work in the afternoon on January 26 and was staying at a hotel in the city. On January 27 before noon, he was found collapsed in the bathtub in his hotel room by an employee and declared dead upon arrival. His farewell will be held at a later date.

Nagai has played Namihei in "Sazae-san" for more than 44 years since 1969 and has charmed audiences with his signature "Bakamon~!" He is also known for his prolific roles, including Konaki Jijii in "GeGeGe no Kitaro", Dr. Sado Sakezo and Chief Tokugawa Hikozaemon in "Space Battleship Yamato", Kotetsu in "Jarinko Chie" and Dyce in "Future Boy Conan". Furthermore, he reads the opening narration and plays tens of characters in anime "Mobile Suit Gundam". In 2009, he was awarded the lifelong achievement award at the "Third Seiyuu Awards". 

 Our sincere condolences go to his family and friends.

Source & Image: My Navi