Veteran Tokusatsu Actor Kenji Ohba Passes Away

Veteran tokusastu actor and stunt performer Kenji Ohba passed away on May 6th, 2026 at age 72.

Japan Action Enterprise has announced that longtime tokusatsu actor and stunt performer Kenji Ohba passed away on May 6th, 2026 at the age of 72.

“Regarding our affiliated actor, Mr. Kenji Ohba, who had been undergoing medical treatment for some time, he passed away on May 6, 2026. He was 72 years old at the time of his passing.”

“We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude for the kindness and support shown to him during his lifetime, and we respectfully inform you of his passing. In accordance with the wishes of his family, the wake and funeral will be held privately with close relatives.”

Ohba was known for playing the titular role of Retsu Ichijouji/Gavan in the original Space Sheriff Gavan series in 1982. In the years prior, he portrayed the role of Shiro Akebono/Battle Kenya in Battle Fever J (1979), followed by Daigoro Oume/Denji Blue in Denshi Sentai Denjiman (1980). Ohba served as a suit actor in various series such as Himitsu Sentai Gorenger, Android Kikaider, and Kikaider 01. He would also go on to guest star in the Metal Heroes, Super Sentai and Kamen Rider series over the following decades.

Source: Oricon Japan