Jefferson Utanes, the Tagalog voice actor of Doraemon and Son Goku, dies at 46

Filipino voice actor Jefferson Utanes passed away on Tuesday after battling Chronic Kidney Disease. He was 46 years old.

His death was confirmed to GMA News Online by his wife, Catherine, who said that he was diagnosed with Stage 5 CKD in early 2024 and had been undergoing dialysis.

Jefferson underwent an angioplasty procedure last week, but he felt pain on his back and flank a few days after he was discharged. He died of a heart attack at home.

Anime fans have been mourning Jefferson, who was the Tagalog voice for many iconic characters such as Doraemon and Son Goku.

He also voiced James and Professor Oak in "Pokémon," Hisoka in "Hunter X Hunter," Kogoro Mouri in "Detective Conan," Yami Yugi in "Yu-Gi-Oh," Li Syaoran in "Cardcaptor Sakura," Ryomen Sukuna in "Jujutsu Kaisen," and Okarun in "Dandadan." 

Those who wish to pay their respects to Jefferson may visit his wake in St. Peter Chapels in San Roque, Antipolo City. Viewing starts on December 17 at 6 p.m. and Interment is on December 21.

—MGP, GMA Integrated News