Hikari Yono

Hikari Yono (よの ひかり, Yono Hikari; October 8, 1974 - November 15, 2020) was a talented Japanese voice actress and narrator, hailing from Shirakawa, Fukushima Prefecture. She pursued her passion for the arts at Nihon University College of Art, which laid the foundation for her illustrious career.

Yono's professional journey began at "School Birds," a television narration school, before she secured affiliations with Mausu Promotion and B-Box. Eventually, she transitioned to a freelance career, showcasing her versatility as she narrated and voiced characters in various projects, including international film dubbing through the Boar Butterfly initiative.

Throughout her career, she brought to life numerous memorable anime characters, such as Samui in the beloved series Naruto: Shippuden, Kaolinite in Bishoujo Senshi Sailor Moon Crystal Season III, and Yoshino Uehara in the popular series Gantz. Her performances were celebrated for their depth and emotional resonance, earning her a dedicated fanbase.

In early 2020, Yono faced health challenges that forced her to step back from her work. Tragically, on November 20, her family announced via her Twitter account that she had passed away on November 15 while undergoing treatment for cancer. A heartfelt message from her family was shared by her manager at Velvet Office, highlighting her bravery and the impact she left on her fans and colleagues.