The anime world lost a cornerstone voice on May 15 with the passing of Wakana Yamazaki, the seiyuu behind Ran Mōri in the long-running Detective Conan series. Her departure marks the end of an era for one of anime's most enduring franchises.

Yamazaki brought Ran to life since the TV anime's debut in 1996—nearly three decades of consistent, cherished performances. Detective Conan creator Gōshō Aoyama reflected on her absence, saying, "To think I'll never hear that gentle, comforting voice that was always there again… it's so sad."

The anime's production staff released an official statement expressing their gratitude: "We have learned of the passing of voice actress Wakana Yamazaki, who voiced Ran Mōri in Detective Conan for nearly 30 years. The entire production staff would like to express our deepest gratitude for the tremendous dedication and contributions Wakana Yamazaki made to the series over the years, and we pray for her eternal rest."

Cast and collaborators shared personal memories. DAIGO, who wrote lyrics for multiple Detective Conan opening and ending themes with his band BREAKERZ, recalled composing with Yamazaki's voice in mind: "Whenever I wrote lyrics, I could hear Wakana Yamazaki's voice in my head. It's a voice I adore."

Toshio Furukawa, who voiced Detective Yamamura, remembered their shared agency and countless projects together. "We even went on a trip to Bali with colleagues," he wrote. "I'll never see that dimpled smile again."

Noriko Hidaka, who voiced Masumi Sera alongside Yamazaki, expressed disbelief at the loss. She noted that despite three decades working together since their first collaboration, Yamazaki continued delivering memorable performances right up to recent Detective Conan films.

Yamazaki's voice defined Ran's character for an entire generation of fans worldwide. Her warm delivery and emotional depth became inseparable from one of anime's most iconic heroines, cementing her legacy as an irreplaceable part of Detective Conan's identity.