Ryōko Kinomiya (来宮 良子, Kinomiya Ryōko), born Ryōko Sakurai on July 10, 1931, in Kyoto, Japan, was a distinguished actress and voice actress who left an indelible mark on the Japanese entertainment industry. Renowned for her distinctive low voice, Kinomiya made significant contributions to both live-action and animated works. She gained particular acclaim as the Japanese voice for iconic actress Faye Dunaway, bringing depth and nuance to her characters.
Throughout her career, Kinomiya showcased her versatility across various genres, earning her a dedicated following. Her talent was recognized in 2008 when she was honored with a Merit Award at the 2nd Seiyu Awards, a testament to her significant impact on the voice acting community. Kinomiya's performances resonated with audiences, highlighting her exceptional ability to convey emotion and character through her vocal work.
Sadly, Kinomiya passed away on November 25, 2013, due to multiple organ failure, just a few weeks shy of her 82nd birthday. Her legacy endures through her memorable performances and the influence she had on aspiring voice actors and actresses in Japan. Ryōko Kinomiya remains a celebrated figure in the world of Japanese entertainment, remembered for her remarkable contributions and unique voice.
