Koichi Yamadera, a renowned Japanese voice actor, was born on June 17, 1961, in Shiogama, Japan. He graduated from Tohoku Gakuin University and is affiliated with Across Entertainment. Yamadera's impressive career spans multiple mediums, including video games and TV animation.
He made his voice-acting debut in the OVA Megazone 23, playing the role of motorcycle-riding Shinji Nakagawa. His television debut was in the anime Bosco Adventure, where he voiced the cowardly but friendly otter. However, it was his breakout role as Ryoga Hibiki and the Jusenkyo Guide in Ranma 1/2 that truly showcased his talent. The same year, he voiced Shaman in the TV series Granzort.
In 1991, Yamadera joined forces with Toshihiko Seki and Noriko Hidaka to form the acting unit Banana Fritters, which disbanded in 1995. The group's performances were well-received, and Yamadera continued to establish himself as a prominent voice actor.
In addition to his voice work, Yamadera has also had a successful television career. He became a host on the TV Tokyo children's variety show Oha Suta in October 1997. In 1994, he married Mika Kanai, with whom he had a long-term partnership. However, the couple divorced in the spring of 2006.
Throughout his career, Yamadera has been recognized for his iconic roles in various anime series and films. Some of his most notable performances include Kaiketsu Zorori, the Japanese dub of Full House, Ranma 1/2, Soreike! Anpanman, Brave Exkaiser, Ghost in the Shell, Ghost in the Shell: Innocence, Neon Genesis Evangelion, Cowboy Bebop, the Yatterman remake, Mobile Suit Gundam: Char's Counterattack, Paprika, and Vampire Hunter D-Bloodlust.
Yamadera has also gained recognition for his work in dubbing English-language films, including roles voiced by Jim Carrey and Eddie Murphy. His impressive range and versatility have cemented his status as one of Japan's most respected and beloved voice actors.
