Akio Nojima
Voice ActorAkio Nojima has worked as a Japanese actor and voice performer since the 1960s. He's perhaps best recognized for two non-anime dub roles, voicing Saga from Saint Seiya and giving KITT, the talking car of Knight Rider, its Japanese voice; in Bleach, he plays Sōken Ishida, grandfather of Uryu Ishida and a retired Quincy warrior.
Bleach Role
Nojima voices Sōken Ishida, the grandfather of Uryu Ishida, in flashback appearances throughout Bleach. Sōken was a skilled practitioner of Quincy powers who mentored Uryu before his death at the hands of a Hollow, an event that shapes Uryu's motivations for much of the series. Nojima's performance lends the character a steady, dignified presence befitting his role as a formative influence on the story's Quincy lore.
Career and Notable Roles
Nojima has had a long career as an actor and voice performer since the 1960s, working across television, anime, and dubbing. He worked through Tokyo Actor's Consumer's Cooperative Society earlier in his career, then joined Sigma Seven in 2016. His two sons, Hirofumi and Kenji Nojima, are also voice actors, while a third son, Satoshi, writes about nature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who does Akio Nojima voice in Bleach?
Nojima voices Sōken Ishida, the grandfather of Uryu Ishida, in flashback appearances throughout Bleach. Sōken was a retired Quincy warrior who mentored Uryu before dying at the hands of a Hollow, an event that shapes Uryu's motivations.
What is Akio Nojima best known for outside anime?
Nojima is recognized for two non-anime dub roles: voicing Saga from Saint Seiya and giving KITT, the talking car of Knight Rider, its Japanese voice. Those parts stand alongside his long career as an actor and voice performer since the 1960s.
What talent agency does Akio Nojima belong to?
Nojima worked through Tokyo Actor's Consumer's Cooperative Society earlier in his career before joining the agency Sigma Seven in 2016. He has been active as an actor and voice performer since 1963.
When did Akio Nojima start his acting career?
Nojima has worked as an actor and voice performer since the 1960s, with his career dating to 1963. He was born in 1945 and continues working today.
Does Akio Nojima have family also in voice acting?
Yes, his sons Hirofumi Nojima and Kenji Nojima are both voice actors. A third son, Satoshi, writes about nature rather than working in entertainment.
Sources & Information
This content is original writing by Daddy Jim Anime based on the Bleach anime series, manga, and official materials. Episode and chapter references are cited where applicable.
Rights holders
- Created byTite Kubo
- Published byShueisha
- Animated byStudio Pierrot
All rights belong to their respective owners.
Character and scene imagery on this site is original artwork by Daddy Jim Anime, not screenshots or licensed imagery. Official cover art is used on three types of pages for editorial commentary:
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