The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission.
Sayaka Kanda death: Japanese Frozen star dies, aged 35
Kanda was the daughter of famous Japanese stars
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Japanese actor and singer Sayaka Kanda has died, aged 35.
The news was announced by her agency on Sunday (20 December), who replaced all details about Kanda on her website with a notice.
“I would like to report to everyone who has supported Sayaka Kanda so far,” her team wrote.
“Kanda Sayaka (35 years old) died suddenly at 9:40pm on December 18, 2021. We are very sorry to give such a report to all the fans who supported us and all the people who took care of us. We are still unable to accept her passing and are trying to cope with it. “
Japanese outlets are reporting that police are investigating the case as a probable suicide, but have not ruled out foul play.
Kanda is best known for providing the Japanese dub for the character of Anna in Disney film Frozen.
She was currently appearing in a stage version of My Fair Lady and had been at rehearsals on Friday (17 December).
However, she did not show up for her performance on Saturday (18 December). Kanda’s body was discovered at the hotel she was staying at that afternoon.
Kanda was rushed to hospital, where she was pronounced dead.
The actor was the daughter of famous actor Masaki Kanda and singer Seiko Matsuda.
Takako Matsu, who voiced Elsa in the Japanese dub of Frozen, said that she was “speechless” after hearing the news.
Matsu added: “The time we spent together is an irreplaceable treasure for me.”
Kanda had been acting since she was 20. She married for two years in 2017.
When life is difficult, Samaritans are here – day or night, 365 days a year. You can call them for free on 116 123, email them at jo@samaritans.org, or visit www.samaritans.org to find your nearest branch.
In the US, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1 800 273 8255 or chat online for help.