Ikue Otani

Ikue Otani

Born:August 18, 1965

Place of Birth:Tokyo Prefecture, Japan

Known For:Acting

Biography

Ikue Otani, a talented Japanese voice actress and singer, has captivated audiences worldwide with her iconic portrayal of Pikachu in the beloved Pokémon series. With her distinctive voice and infectious energy, she has brought the lovable Electric-type Pokémon to life in a way that has endeared her to fans of all ages.

Beyond her role as Pikachu, Otani has showcased her versatility and skill as a voice actress in a wide range of characters across various anime series and films. Her ability to breathe life into diverse roles with depth and emotion has solidified her reputation as one of the industry's most respected talents.

In 2006, Otani made headlines when she took a brief hiatus from her work due to pregnancy. Despite her temporary absence, her legacy as the voice of Pikachu remained unchanged, a testament to the enduring impact of her work and the seamless way in which she has embodied the beloved character.

Throughout her career, Otani has continued to enchant audiences with her dynamic performances and unwavering dedication to her craft. Her contributions to the world of voice acting have left an indelible mark, earning her a special place in the hearts of fans around the globe.

With a career spanning decades, Otani has proven herself to be a true powerhouse in the world of Japanese animation. Her ability to evoke a wide range of emotions through her vocal performances has made her an invaluable asset to the industry, garnering her widespread acclaim and admiration.

In addition to her work as a voice actress, Otani has also showcased her musical talents as a singer, further demonstrating her artistic versatility and passion for creativity. Her multifaceted career continues to inspire and delight audiences, showcasing her boundless talent and dedication to her craft.

As a trailblazer in the world of voice acting, Otani has set a standard of excellence that has earned her numerous accolades and a dedicated fan following. Her iconic portrayal of Pikachu has become synonymous with the character itself, solidifying her status as a legend in the realm of animated entertainment.

Despite the challenges and demands of her profession, Otani has remained a steadfast and committed artist, approaching each new role with enthusiasm and professionalism. Her unwavering work ethic and passion for her craft have earned her the respect and admiration of her peers and fans alike.

Through her extraordinary talent and unwavering dedication, Ikue Otani has left an indelible mark on the world of animation, bringing joy and laughter to countless viewers through her memorable performances. Her contributions to the industry continue to resonate with audiences of all ages, cementing her legacy as a true icon in the realm of voice acting.

Images

Ikue Otani

Filmography

Acting

My Neighbor Totoro

My Neighbor Totoro

Additional Voices (voice)

1988

Two sisters move to the country with their father in order to be closer to their hospitalized mother, and discover the surrounding trees are inhabited by Totoros, magical spirits of the forest. When the youngest runs away from home, the older sister seeks help from the spirits to find her.
The Last: Naruto the Movie

The Last: Naruto the Movie

Konohamaru (voice)

2014

Two years after the events of the Fourth Great Ninja War, the moon that Hagoromo Otsutsuki created long ago to seal away the Gedo Statue begins to descend towards the world, threatening to become a meteor that would destroy everything on impact. Amidst this crisis, a direct descendant of Kaguya Otsutsuki named Toneri Otsutsuki attempts to kidnap Hinata Hyuga but ends up abducting her younger sister Hanabi. Naruto and his allies now mount a rescue mission before finding themselves embroiled in a final battle to decide the fate of everything.
One Piece Film Red

One Piece Film Red

Tony Tony Chopper (voice)

2022

Uta — the most beloved singer in the world. Her voice, which she sings with while concealing her true identity, has been described as “otherworldly.” She will appear in public for the first time at a live concert. As the venue fills with all kinds of Uta fans — excited pirates, the Navy watching closely, and the Straw Hats led by Luffy who simply came to enjoy her sonorous performance — the voice that the whole world has been waiting for is about to resound.
Pokémon Detective Pikachu

Pokémon Detective Pikachu

Pikachu (voice)

2019

In a world where people collect pocket-size monsters (Pokémon) to do battle, a boy comes across an intelligent monster who seeks to be a detective.
Ghost Cat Anzu

Ghost Cat Anzu

Pi-Pi-chan (voice)

2024

Precocious tween Karin finds herself abandoned by her father in rural Japan. Living in a temple with her grandfather, she meets Anzu, a giant "ghost cat" and notorious layabout tasked with looking after her. Distrustful of her new guardian, Karin sabotages Anzu's odd jobs for the townsfolk and befriends the eccentric local forest spirits. In an effort to win Karin over, Anzu accidentally makes a deal with the devil, and all Hell breaks loose.
Pokémon: The First Movie

Pokémon: The First Movie

Pikachu (voice)

1998

Determined to prove its superiority, a bio-engineered Pokémon called Mewtwo lures Ash, Pikachu and others into a Pokemon match like none before.
Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You!

Pokémon the Movie: I Choose You!

Pikachu (voice)

2017

Ash Ketchum wakes up late one morning after having broken his alarm clock in his sleep. He eventually makes it to Professor Oak's lab, but is told that the three starter List of Pokémon (Bulbasaur, Squirtle, and Charmander) have already been taken by Trainers who were on time. However, Oak reveals that he has one more Pokémon, an Electric-type named Pikachu. Despite its volatile and feisty personality, as well as its refusal to get inside a Poké Ball, Ash happily takes Pikachu for his journey.
Pokémon the Movie 2000

Pokémon the Movie 2000

Pikachu (voice)

1999

When Lawrence III's scheme to capture the Legendary Pokémon Lugia upsets the balance of nature, it is up to Ash Ketchum and his friends to save the world.
One Piece Film: GOLD

One Piece Film: GOLD

Tony Tony Chopper (voice)

2016

The glittering Gran Tesoro, a city of entertainment beyond the laws of the government, is a sanctuary for the world’s most infamous pirates, Marines, and filthy rich millionaires. Drawn by dreams of hitting the jackpot, Captain Luffy and his crew sail straight for the gold. But behind the gilded curtains lies a powerful king whose deep pockets and deeper ambitions spell disaster for the Straw Hats and the New World alike.
Pokémon the Movie: Mewtwo Strikes Back - Evolution

Pokémon the Movie: Mewtwo Strikes Back - Evolution

Pikachu (voice)

2019

After accepting an invitation from a mysterious trainer, Ash, Misty and Brock meet Mewtwo, an artificially created Pokémon who wants to do battle.
Detective Conan: The Time Bombed Skyscraper

Detective Conan: The Time Bombed Skyscraper

Mitsuhiko Tsuburaya (voice)

1997

Once brilliant teenage detective Shinichi Kudo was given a poison that reverted him to a 4-year-old. He's adopted the pseudonym Conan Edogawa so no one (save for an eccentric inventor) will know. Now he's got to solve a series of bombings before his loved ones become victims. Who is this madman and why is he doing this? Only the young genius can save the day but will even he be up to the task?
Pokémon: Lucario and the Mystery of Mew

Pokémon: Lucario and the Mystery of Mew

Pikachu (voice)

2005

In the legendary past, before Poké Balls were invented, an aura-guiding hero Pokémon named Lucario sensed two groups of armies about to clash, and a threat of a massive war in front of Oldoran Castle in Kanto that would leave no survivors. He transferred this message to his master, the legendary hero Arlon, while he was being attacked by a violent group of Hellgar. During the battle, his sense of sight was lost and he was rendered unable to see. He used the detection of his Aura, and so with the offensive Wave Bomb, he eliminated them. Though by the threat, the queen of Rota, Lady Rin was resolute to die with her civilians, and so Arlon made a choice.
Mary and The Witch's Flower

Mary and The Witch's Flower

Tib (voice)

2017

Mary Smith, a young girl who lives with her great-aunt in the countryside, follows a mysterious cat into the nearby forest where she finds a strange flower and an old broom, none of which is as ordinary as it seems.
One Piece Film: Strong World

One Piece Film: Strong World

Tony Tony Chopper (voice)

2009

20 years after his escape from Impel Down, the legendary pirate Shiki, the Golden Lion, reappears causing massive upheaval to the Marines. During his long seclusion, he was able to come up with a scheme to bring the World Government to his knees. On his way to execute the plan, Shiki crosses paths with the Straw Hat Pirates and becomes so impressed with Nami's knowledge of meteorology that he abducts her to forcedly enlist her into his crew. Luffy and the gang end up on a strange land populated with monstrous beasts as they desperately search for Shiki and Nami.
Pokémon 4Ever

Pokémon 4Ever

Pikachu (voice)

2001

In order to escape a greedy Pokémon hunter, Celebi must use the last of its energy to travel through time to the present day. Celebi brings along Sammy, a boy who had been trying to protect it. Along with Ash, Pikachu, and the rest of the gang, Sammy and Celebi must encounter an enemy far more advanced than the hunter, with the fate of the forest hanging in the balance.
One Piece Film: Z

One Piece Film: Z

Tony Tony Chopper (voice)

2012

Zephyr, now known as Z, rides the seas with only one goal: Destroy all pirates and their dreams at becoming King of Pirates. When Luffy and his crew encounter him at sea, not only are they utterly defeated by the man with an arm made of Seastone, Nami, Robin, and Chopper are turned 10 years younger due to Z's minion Ain. Luffy is so determined to win against him that he does not even notice Z's master plan that could sacrifice thousands of lives.
Pokémon 3: The Movie

Pokémon 3: The Movie

Pikachu (voice)

2000

When the sadness of her father's disappearance gets to Molly Hale, she unknowingly uses the Unown to create her own dream world along with Entei, who she believes to be her father. When Entei kidnaps Ash's mother, Ash — alongside Misty and Brock — invade the mansion looking for his mom and trying to stop the mysteries of Molly's Dream World and Entei!
Pokémon the Movie: The Power of Us

Pokémon the Movie: The Power of Us

Pikachu (voice)

2018

A young athlete whose running days might be behind her, a compulsive liar, a shy researcher, a bitter old woman, and a little girl with a big secret—the only thing they have in common is the annual Wind Festival in Fula City. The festival celebrates the Legendary Pokémon Lugia, who brings the wind that powers this seaside city. When a series of threats endangers not just the festival, but all the people and Pokémon of Fula City, it’ll take more than just Satoshi and Pikachu to save the day! Can everyone put aside their differences and work together—or will it all end in destruction?
Pokémon Heroes

Pokémon Heroes

Pikachu (voice)

2002

Ash, Pikachu and the gang try and stop a pair of thieves hiding out in the canals and alleyways of Altomare, the age-old water capital. Joining the adventure are two new legendary Pokémon, a pair of siblings named Latias and Latios, who serve as peacekeepers and protectors of the Soul Dew — a priceless treasure with a mysterious power.
The Imaginary

The Imaginary

Doron (voice)

2023

Amanda and her imaginary friend Rudger go on thrilling make-believe adventures. But when Rudger finds himself alone, he faces a mysterious threat.
Pokémon the Movie: White - Victini and Zekrom

Pokémon the Movie: White - Victini and Zekrom

Pikachu (voice)

2011

The Kingdom of the People of the Earth once ruled over the land, but now all that remains is the Sword of the Earth. in the city of Eindoak. Satoshi, Iris, and Dent arrive in Eindoak during a harvest festival's Pokémon Tournament and meet the legendary Pokémon Victini who wishes to share its powers of victory to someone. Elsewhere in the city, a descendant of the People of the Earth named Dred Grangil has arrived who seeks to revive the kingdom's power with the Sword of the Earth, bringing them back into power over the land, and Satoshi and his friends must stop him before he destroys the land along with Victini.
Pokémon: Zoroark - Master of Illusions

Pokémon: Zoroark - Master of Illusions

Pikachu (voice)

2010

Ash and his friends must stop a greedy media mogul from using the shape-shifting Zoroark to capture the time-travelling Celebi.
One Piece: Chopper's Kingdom on the Island of Strange Animals

One Piece: Chopper's Kingdom on the Island of Strange Animals

Tony Tony Chopper (voice)

2002

As the Straw Hat Pirates sail through the Grand Line.A line of geysers erupted from under the Going Merry. And the whole crew find themselves flying over the island. Unfortunatly, Chopper fell off the ship and was separated from his friends. Luffy and the others landed on the other side of the island. Chopper meanwhile finds himself being worshiped as the island's new king by the animals. To make matters worse, a trio of human "horn" hunters are on the island. The leader, Count Butler is a violin playing/horn eating human who wants to eat the island's treasure to inherit immense power. Will Luffy & the rest be able to prevent the count from terrorizing the island? And will they be able to convince Momambi that not all pirates are bad?
Pokémon the Movie: Diancie and the Cocoon of Destruction

Pokémon the Movie: Diancie and the Cocoon of Destruction

Pikachu (voice)

2014

In the underground Diamond Domain, where many Carbink live, the Mythical Pokémon Diancie serves as ruler. The Heart Diamond that sustains the land is beginning to fall apart, and Diancie is not yet strong enough to create a new one. While seeking help from the Legendary Pokémon Xerneas, Diancie encounters a group of thieves who want to take control of its diamond-producing power–and who awaken the Legendary Pokémon Yveltal from its cocoon in the process! Can Ash and his friends help Diancie discover its true power, stop Yveltal’s rampage, and save the Diamond Domain?
One Piece: Heart of Gold

One Piece: Heart of Gold

Tony Tony Chopper (voice)

2016

A girl named Olga is pursued by both the World Government and a man named Mad Treasure, as she is the only one who knows the location of the Pure Gold, a substance that can buy the entire world. Olga ends up sailing with the Straw Hat Pirates, and they journey to find the Pure Gold on the lost island of Alchemi, which is located inside the stomach of a large angler fish named Bonbori.
One Piece: Adventure of Nebulandia

One Piece: Adventure of Nebulandia

Tony Tony Chopper (voice)

2015

The Foxy Pirates challenge Luffy’s crew in the New World, but the fun and games go belly-up when the Navy’s most brilliant tactician steps in. Before the Straw Hats even know what hit them, they wind up on the island of Nebulandia, an infamous death trap for Devil Fruit users. Luffy must team up with his Davy Back nemesis for a harrowing rescue mission when Zoro, Sanji, and some Foxy Pirates are held hostage!
Pokémon: Jirachi - Wish Maker

Pokémon: Jirachi - Wish Maker

Pikachu (voice)

2003

Ash, May, Brock, and Max come upon the festival of the Wishing Star of Seven Nights. During their enjoyment, the legendary Pokemon--Jirachi, descends from the heavens and befriends Max. Jirachi, with the power to grant any wish, is sought after by many people wanting to claim its power. One man seeks to use its legendary power to revive an ancient Pokemon known as Groudon, unaware of the dangers hidden within Jirachi's powers
One Piece: Curse of the Sacred Sword

One Piece: Curse of the Sacred Sword

Tony Tony Chopper (voice)

2004

The Straw Hat Pirates landed at Asuka Island, home of the most valuable sword in the world: The Seven Star Sword. Which was said to curse anyone who takes it in possession. When they got back to the Going Merry, they discovered that Zoro is missing from his guard duty. Before they could plan out a search party to relocate him. Luffy and friends escape from the port as Marines were on their tail. They found a new place to dock, which is near a village. Whose job is to keep the Seven Star Sword sealed. Soon it was attacked by the Marines, and among them is Zoro. Luffy and the others don't know why he's helping out the Marines. But it all comes to conclusion when Luffy encounters Saga: Zoro's childhood friend from Swordsman training.
Pokémon: Giratina and the Sky Warrior

Pokémon: Giratina and the Sky Warrior

Pikachu (voice)

2008

When Giratina is discovered to be able to create parallel dimensions, it's up to Ash and his friends to stop a mysterious stranger from using its powers for evil.