Remembering a 34-Year Legacy
In a bittersweet announcement on Saturday, the official website of the Chibi Maruko-chan television anime revealed that the final episode featuring the late TARAKO's voice as the beloved Maruko is set to air on March 24. The special one-hour episode, titled "Maruko, Mizu no Aji ga Wakaru?" (Maruko, Do You Know the Taste of Water?), marks the end of an era for fans who have cherished TARAKO's portrayal of Maruko for an incredible 34 years.
A Remarkable Journey of Dedication
Since the debut of Chibi Maruko-chan on January 7, 1990, TARAKO poured her heart and soul into bringing the endearing character to life. Even in the face of health challenges, she exhibited unwavering dedication, recording for the series from a hospital ward. The anime's staff fondly remembers TARAKO's commitment, stating that she faced Chibi Maruko-chan with great love until the very end.
Contemplating the Future: Seeking a Worthy Successor
With the imminent departure of TARAKO from the iconic role, the anime's staff faces the challenging task of considering a replacement voice actor. Fans worldwide are left wondering who will step into the shoes of Maruko and continue the legacy. As the industry contemplates the transition, discussions are ongoing about when the episodes with the new voice actor for Maruko will begin airing.
A Versatile Talent Remembered
TARAKO's contribution to the world of anime extends beyond Chibi Maruko-chan. From the mischievous Kirara in InuYasha to the sinister Monokuma in Danganronpa 3: The End of Hope's Peak High School: Future Arc and Danganronpa V3: Killing Harmony, her versatile talent left an indelible mark. Whether portraying Debeko in Dead Dead Demon's Dededede Destruction, Pat in One Piece: Unlimited World R, or lending her voice to the whimsical world of Magical Taruruuto-kun as Taruruuto, TARAKO showcased unparalleled versatility.
An Icon's Legacy Lives On
Beyond her voice acting prowess, TARAKO led the Waku Produce theatrical group and contributed to Trobadour Ongaku Jimushō. Her first foray into the world of anime was as a kindergartener in the original Urusei Yatsura series. Additionally, TARAKO's musical talents shone through as she performed theme songs for some of the anime she worked on, including Alice in Wonderland and Katsugeki Shōjo Tantei Dan.
The Final Curtain Call
As the curtain falls on TARAKO's final performance as Maruko, fans around the world are left with a mixture of nostalgia and anticipation. The anime industry faces the challenge of honoring the legacy she leaves behind while navigating the uncharted waters of finding a successor for such an iconic role. On March 24, fans will gather to bid a heartfelt farewell to the voice that brought joy and laughter to Chibi Maruko-chan for over three decades.
