‘One Piece’ Voice Actor Grant James Dead At 87
Today, the global anime community is mourning the passing away of one of the top voice actors in the industry, Grant James. Affiliated with FUNimation Entertainment and ADV Films, the 87-year-old actor was popular for voicing several anime characters. From Fullmetal Alchemist’s Fatherly Master to One Piece’s Chef Zeff, James, the actor has contributed a lot to the anime industry. How did the voice actor die? Keep reading to find out the details!
Grant James’ Memorial Services Will Be Held In January
On Sunday, Juli Erickson, a fellow voice actress, and James’ wife confirmed the actor’s death. The news of his passing was shared on his official Facebook page where Erickson informed that Grant James’ memorial services will be held on January 2023. She also claimed that she and James were known as The Godfather and Godmother of Acting in Dallas due to their acting classes.
[Source: Facebook]
As per ComicBook, the anime voice actor passed away on November 23, 2022. Per reports, James’ cause of death was due to age and was believed to be natural.
The official death statement reads:
“At the age of 87, Grant leaves behind his beloved wife of 36 years, Juli Erickson, their many children, gaggles of grandchildren, a growing list of great-grandchildren, an adopted film and stage family. Grant has touched many lives, and we invite you to share with us your laughs and tears. In early January 2023, there will be a memorial show in multiple acts, and we’re putting out a call for help. We are reaching out to all of you for contributions of your time, acting or writing talent, stories of his life, photos, and footage, or donations, and we are considering locations.”
Grant James Started His Acting Journey At 4
Born in 1935, James started out as an actor at the age of 4. Moreover, he played the esteemed role of Goat #3 in Billy Goats Gruff. In 1962, he received his MFA and in 1986, he wed his fellow voice actress Juli Erickson. Apart from contributing his voice to the anime industry, James also worked in theatre, TV, film, and even audiobooks.
[Source: YouTube]
Some of his notable works apart from One Piece or Full Metal Alchemist include:
- Tokio in Hal
- Sirius in Nabari no Ou
- Number Zero in 009-1
- Kido in Baki The Grappler
- Mujika in Mushishi
[Source: YouTube]
James has also voiced other roles in popular anime titles like D. Gray-man, Dragon Ball Z, Detective Conan, Darker Than Black, The Sacred Blacksmith, Soul Hunter, and more.
Finally, the voice actor was an inspiration for many aspiring artists. May he rest in heaven!
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