Arihiro Hase
Arihiro Hase (April 22, 1965 - July 30, 1996) was a prominent voice actor hailing from Tokyo, Japan, and the son of esteemed voice actor Hase Sanji. He is best remembered for his role as Ichijyo Hikaru in the iconic Macross series, a performance that solidified his place in the anime industry.
Throughout his career, Hase was affiliated with Sigma Club and Production MThree, where he contributed his talents to various projects. His work in the Macross franchise not only showcased his vocal abilities but also connected him with fellow cast member and pop singer Iijima Mari, with whom he maintained a close friendship long after the series concluded. Hase was a regular attendee at Iijima’s concerts, reflecting the bond they shared over the years.
Tragically, on July 30, 1996, at the age of 31, Hase took his own life by jumping from his seventh-story window, a loss that reverberated throughout the anime community. In 2005, Iijima honored his memory by dedicating her reprisal of Lynn Minmay in the ADV Films English dub of Macross to him, ensuring that his legacy would be remembered. Hase's contributions to voice acting and his influence on his peers continue to be celebrated by fans and colleagues alike.