Voice of first 'Fujiko Mine' dies at 87, marking end of original 'Lupin the Third' cast

Yukiko Nikaido, the renowned voice actress who first brought the iconic character Fujiko Mine to life in the classic anime "Lupin the Third," has passed away at the age of 87. She died peacefully on July 3 due to old age and frailty, her family announced.

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The first generation voice actors have truly all gathered in heaven.

Nikaido's passing holds significant weight for anime fans, particularly those who grew up with the original 1971 "Lupin the Third" series. With her departure, the entire main voice cast from that inaugural lineup has now passed away. This includes Yasuo Yamada, the first voice of Lupin III, who died in 1995; Kiyoshi Kobayashi, the voice of Daisuke Jigen, who passed in 2022; Chikao Ōtsuka, the voice of Goemon Ishikawa XIII; and Gorō Naya, the voice of Inspector Zenigata.

Beyond her legendary role as Fujiko Mine, Nikaido was also known as the wife of actor Hiroshi Yagyu. Her second son, Sosuke Yagyu, shared the news via the Yatsugatake Club's SNS, revealing that his mother had lived in a care facility for the past 11 years. He described her final years as peaceful and happy, thanks to the diligent care provided by the staff. The family fondly remembers her cheerful personality and her appreciation for beauty, which they feel still resonates within the club's premises.

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The voice of a childhood classic has ended an era.

The news has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans on social media, who expressed their sadness and nostalgia. Many commented on the end of an era, thanking Nikaido for her unforgettable portrayal of Fujiko Mine. Her voice has now become a cherished memory, marking a final farewell to the original sound of "Lupin the Third."

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Thank you for leaving behind the most charming Fujiko Mine.