Hideo Kojima and More Pay Tribute to Akihiro Miwa, the Iconic Japanese Singer and Actor Behind Wolf Goddess Moro in Princess Mononoke, Who Has Died Aged 91
Akihiro Miwa, an iconic Japanese singer, actor, and cultural figure, has passed away at age 91. According to Japanese news sources, he died on June 20, 2026.
Miwa is internationally recognized for lending his distinctive voice to two Studio Ghibli animated films: as the wolf goddess Moro in Princess Mononoke and as the Witch of the Waste in Howl’s Moving Castle.
A flamboyant entertainer with a career spanning over seven decades, Miwa was a household name in Japan. Beginning in the 1950s as a cabaret singer of French chanson, he became one of Japan’s first openly gay celebrities during the postwar period, bringing early visibility to LGBTQ+ representation in entertainment. Throughout his lifetime, Miwa worked as a singer, actor, author, and drag performer, leaving an indelible mark on Japanese popular culture.
Musically, Miwa achieved success with several hit songs, most notably “Yoitomake no Uta” in 1964. He also appeared in numerous live-action films, contributing to his reputation as a versatile and prolific artist.
His passing has prompted tributes from prominent figures across the entertainment industry, including video game creator Hideo Kojima, reflecting the deep respect and significant influence Miwa commanded throughout Japanese culture and beyond.