The Dragon Ball fandom is mourning the loss of Yoko Kawanami, a veteran actress who contributed to several iconic Dragon Ball projects. Kawanami passed away on March 18, 2025, at the age of 67 after battling peritoneal cancer. Her talent agency confirmed the news, stating that Kawanami had been undergoing treatment for some time before her condition worsened. Her funeral was held privately among close family members.
Kawanami’s passing marks another significant loss for the Dragon Ball community, following the death of series creator Akira Toriyama in 2024. Her contributions to the anime industry extend far beyond Dragon Ball, but fans will remember her most fondly for bringing life to some of the series’ beloved side characters.
A Veteran Talent in the Dragon Ball Universe
Yoko Kawanami
Kawanami’s work in Dragon Ball began in the late 1980s, where she voiced multiple supporting characters. Most notably, she played Bikini, Bulma’s lively mother, in Dragon Ball Z and Dragon Ball Z Kai. While Bikini was not a major character, her presence added warmth and humor to the series, particularly in scenes involving Bulma’s eccentric family. Kawanami also voiced Ranfan and Fanfan in the original Dragon Ball, both of whom were memorable figures for longtime fans.
Ranfan, known for her martial arts skills and playful personality, left a lasting impression during her appearances in early tournament arcs. While these roles were not central to the plot, Kawanami’s expressive and versatile voice acting brought depth to the characters, making them more than just background figures.
Beyond Dragon Ball, Kawanami built an impressive resume with over 60 credited roles in major anime series. She appeared in Dr. Slump, another work by Toriyama, and had roles in popular series like Sailor Moon, Gegege no Kitaro, and Armored Trooper Votoms. Her ability to adapt to different genres and tones cemented her reputation as a versatile and reliable voice actress in the anime industry.
A Series of Losses for Dragon Ball Fans
Yoko Kawanami, Ranfan’s voice, has died at 67 https://t.co/Bll3N4kmwF pic.twitter.com/TdD9PZvGbA — Hozonkai (@Hozonkai1) March 27, 2025
Kawanami’s death adds to a string of tragic losses for the Dragon Ball franchise in recent years. In November 2017, Hiromi Tsuru, the original voice of Bulma, passed away at the age of 57. Tsuru’s sudden death shocked fans and cast a shadow over the franchise. Her work as Bulma had become inseparable from the character, making her passing deeply felt within the anime community.
The loss of Akira Toriyama in March 2024 further compounded the sadness. Toriyama’s death at the age of 68 marked the end of an era for Dragon Ball and manga as a whole. His creative genius shaped the world of anime and inspired countless creators and fans. Now, with Kawanami’s passing, the Dragon Ball universe has lost another important figure who helped bring its characters to life.
Despite these losses, the legacy of Dragon Ball remains strong. Kawanami’s work, along with that of Tsuru and Toriyama, continues to resonate with fans worldwide. Her contributions to the series and the broader anime industry will not be forgotten, as fans remember her voice and the characters she helped shape during the golden age of Dragon Ball.
Netflix has officially confirmed that Blue Box, one of its most popular anime of 2024, will be returning for a second season. The announcement was accompanied by a teaser showcasing Chinatsu and Taiki’s most touching moments from season one, reigniting excitement among fans. The show’s blend of sports and romance quickly earned it a dedicated following, making the renewal a highly anticipated moment for viewers eager to see how the story unfolds.
For those unfamiliar, Blue Box follows Taiki Inomata, a high school badminton player, and Chinatsu Kano, a basketball star. Their relationship, marked by quiet longing and growing mutual respect, formed the emotional core of season one. The season ended with Taiki finally resolving his feelings, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of their relationship in the next chapter. With the confirmation from @aonohako_PR on X, fans are now looking forward to more emotional highs and romantic developments in season two.
The Perfect Balance of Sports and Romance
Blue Box Episode 2 Still
What sets Blue Box apart from other series is its ability to strike a balance between athletic ambition and romantic tension. While most sports anime focus heavily on competition and romance anime lean toward emotional drama, Blue Box merges the two seamlessly.
Taiki’s devotion to badminton and Chinatsu’s commitment to basketball provide a meaningful backdrop to their growing connection, adding depth to both the romantic and competitive aspects of the story. This combination makes the series appealing to a wide audience, as it caters to both sports and romance fans without sacrificing either element.
━━大喜くんが辛い時は隣にいるよ━━ TVアニメ『アオのハコ』 第2期制作決定 ！🟦 第2期制作決定PV！ ▶ https://t.co/XHXwDjnUqb #アオのハコ #アニハコ pic.twitter.com/AtboLc3UM8 — アオのハコ【公式】@TVアニメ放送中！ (@aonohako_PR) March 27, 2025
The emotional depth of Blue Box also played a key role in its success. The series’ slow-burn approach allowed Taiki and Chinatsu’s relationship to unfold naturally, with each shared moment carrying weight. Season one focused on the foundation of their relationship, but now that Taiki has clarified his feelings, the next season has the opportunity to deepen their emotional bond. The thoughtful exploration of their ambitions, struggles, and quiet understanding made the first season a standout, and season two is expected to build on this carefully crafted dynamic.
Season 2 to Explore New Emotional Depths
Blue Box Episode 2 Still
One of the biggest reasons fans are excited about season two is the potential for Taiki and Chinatsu’s relationship to evolve. Season one established their connection, but with growing hints of romantic feelings, the upcoming season could explore their emotions more directly. As they continue to push themselves in their respective sports, their emotional struggles and deepening affection are likely to become even more intertwined. This creates the potential for heartfelt and memorable moments as they face new challenges together.
Season two is also expected to bring more character development, as Taiki and Chinatsu face new hurdles both in their athletic and personal lives. Their competitive spirits and individual goals may complicate their growing relationship, raising questions about whether they can balance love and ambition. Fans are eager to see how their dynamic will shift and whether they will finally take the next step toward becoming a couple. Regardless of the outcome, season two promises to deliver the same emotional weight and thoughtful storytelling that made the first season a success.
With Blue Box officially returning, anticipation for the new season is already building. The next chapter of Taiki and Chinatsu’s story is poised to offer a fresh blend of romance and competition, ensuring that fans remain deeply invested in their journey.
