Veteran Japanese voice actor Kozo Shioya, best known for voicing the character 'Majin Buu' in the popular anime series "Dragon Ball Z", has passed away. Shioya's contributions to the anime industry spanned over four decades, with his work leaving a lasting impact on fans worldwide. The cause of his death has yet to be announced, and tributes to the late actor have begun to pour in from around the globe.
In Japan, voice actors, or seiyuus, hold a significant cultural importance, owing to the popularity of anime and gaming industries. Seiyuus like Kozo Shioya are beloved by fans and often hold celebrity status. The passing of such figures often leads to widespread expressions of mourning and remembrance from the enthusiast community.
In the U.S or EU, actors who voice beloved characters in animation or video games also gain a considerable following and respect, similar to their counterparts in Japan. The news of their passing prompts tributes and acknowledgements for their contributions to the industry.