Pokemon fans around the world are mourning the passing of the voice actor behind Professor Oak in the original Japanese anime.
Unsho Ishizuka has voiced the beloved character and narrated the Japanese anime since the series debuted in 1997. Prof. Oak was first introduced in “Pokémon! I Choose You!” according to Neoseeker.
Ishizuka role as the professor extended to voicing some of the beloved Pocket Monsters such as Onix.
Japanese website Mantan-Web first reported Ishizuka’s passing after the 67-year-old actor’ succumbed to esophageal cancer.
Fans took to Twitter to share their condolences and memories of the talented performer.
Unsho Ishizuka, known for the role of Professor Oak in Pokémon, has passed away at 68. I enjoyed Pokémon anime with your voice as a child… Thank you for your hard work, your great work will forever remain in my heart. Rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/bEO88RJj40
The Pokèmon Community is saddened to learn that [Noboru ishizuka] the voice actor of Japanese Professor Oak has passed away at age of (68) after a long battle with the cancer
Oh man, that’s heartbreaking. Joseph Joestar, Mr Satan after Mr Gori passed, and of course Professor Oak. He voiced so many legendary characters. He’ll be sorely missed. https://t.co/8fPgnBstdR
Unsho Ishizuka passed away due to cancer, the voice of characters such as Old Joseph, Jet, Mr Satan, Hohenheim, Dojima, Heihachi, Professor Oak, Dr. Gel and many many more
Rest in piece, his voice was like a grandpa to all of us, he will be missed pic.twitter.com/GJdU8TAyI7
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