The star loved a 5 decade profession.
Tributes have flooded in for beloved actor and stuntman Kenji Ohba who has died (Picture: Getty)
Legendary actor and stuntman Kenji Ohba, who appeared within the blockbuster Hollywood Kill Invoice films died peacefully on Wednesday (Might 6) on the age of 72 following a interval of ailing well being. The information was confirmed by Japan Motion Enterprise (JAE), who launched an announcement paying tribute to the star. “Concerning Kenji Ohba, an actor affiliated with our firm who had been recuperating from sickness for a while, we remorse to tell you that he handed away at 2:23 PM on Might 6, 2026, on the age of 72.
“The information of his sudden departure has left our workers, fellow actors, and all workforce members in a state of disbelief. We wish to specific our deepest gratitude to everybody for the kindness and assist proven to him all through his life, and we share this information with profound sorrow. In accordance with the needs of the bereaved household, the funeral and memorial providers will probably be held privately amongst shut kin,” they wrote.
We use your sign-up to offer content material in methods you’ve got consented to and to enhance our understanding of you. This may increasingly embody adverts from us and third events primarily based on our understanding. You may unsubscribe at any time. Learn our Privateness Coverage
The star’s well being woes started in Might 2018 when he was hospitalised after fainting at house. Following this, he had stepped again from the leisure business and public life though he continued to do voice work till 2021.
In January, his daughter Nao Wakaba, had posted a well being replace on X as she gave an replace concerning the remake of one in every of his most well-known roles as House Sherriff Gavan.
She informed followers often, he was quick asleep when she visited however as quickly as she talked concerning the new House Sheriff collection, he attentively listened to the dialog filled with vitality and enthusiasm.
Outdoors of Kill Invoice and his position as House Sherriff Gavan he had a powerful CV spanning over 5 a long time since 1965 with roles in iconic films and TV collection together with 1983’s Legend of the Eight Samurai, 1984’s House Cop Shaider: Pursuit! Shigi Shigi Abduction Plan and 2003’s Battle Royale II: Requiem.
Tributes flooded in for the star as followers have been left devastated. “Relaxation in energy, Kenji Ohba. Thanks for bringing to life one of the vital iconic heroes of my childhood and of so many tokusatsu followers all over the world, Retsu Ichijouji / House Sheriff Gavan…Thanks for the heroism, vitality, and pleasure you shared with the world. My deepest condolences to his household, pals, colleagues, and followers worldwide. Your legend won’t ever fade,”one penned on Fb.
One other added: “Extremely unhappy to learn concerning the passing of Kenji Ohba, who performed a number of Tokusatsu heroes together with the position that turned his most well-known—House Sheriff Gavan…The affect of his work will proceed to dwell lengthy within the hearts of followers. As Gavan would say: Farewell to tears, hey braveness!”
A 3rd chimed in: “Relaxation in peace, legend. Nonetheless bear in mind him in Kill Invoice because the lazy assistant to Hattori Hanzo.” A fourth added: “R.I.P. Kenji Ohba. You might be at all times a legend. Thanks for the unforgettable recollections.”
A fifth commented: “Surprising information. Farewell Legend. Relaxation in Peace Ohba-san Childhood hero for many people. Relaxation in peace Gavan.” In the meantime a sixth shared: “Farewell, Kenji Ohba. Gavan was, with out query, one of the vital iconic figures for me.
Might his passing carry him peace and tranquility.”
Leave a Reply