We have sadly learned that tokusatsu performer Kenji Ohba passed away at the age of 72 after an extended illness.
Kenji Ohba began his career in Super Sentai playing the role of Battle Kenya in Battle Fever J and Denzi Blue in Denshi Sentai Denziman.
Ohba was also the first Metal Hero, the first actor portraying the legendary Space Sheriff Gavan.
Our thoughts are with Kenji Ohba’s friends and family in this difficult time.
On May 6th, 2026, 2:23 PM, JST, Mr. Kenji Ohba passed away.
During his life, Mr. Ohba performed in the tokusatsu genre and became a prolific icon, most notable for his on-screen portrayals of Retsu Ichijoji/Gavan in Uchu Keiji Gavan, Shiro Akebono/Battle Kenya in Battle Fever J, and Daigoro Oume/Denzi Blue in Denji Sentai Denziman.
Thank you for all of your hard work, dedication, and being a hero for many across the world, Mr. Ohba. Rest in Peace, for we will surely miss you.
Oh no, that sucks. He was one of the greats.
A tokusatsu legend for sure, he always brought a ton of energy (and impressive stunt ability!) to his roles.
I believed in courage that he would make a full recovery, but alas, it wasn't to be. Sucks that a stroke can take a man's health and vigor so suddenly. R.I.P.
This is truly sad news. Ohba-san was a magnificent actor and a true legend. His talent, charisma, and physical prowess helped launch not one, but two great tokusatsu franchises. And I seriously think that without him, Super Sentai or Metal Heroes might have become mere shows from the past. Moreover, he made numerous appearances later, in various projects, demonstrating his professionalism and versatility. And although I knew Ohba-san wouldn't be as energetic and fighting as he was in Gavan in 2012, I still cherished the hope of seeing him make a cameo. He lived a good life, forever etched in the history of cinema and in the hearts of fans. RIP.
Ugh, this is really really sad. I just went through Battle Fever J, Denziman, Gavan, and Sharivan last year, and he was exactly the kind of man you want in a tokusatsu like those. Charismatic, athletic, and charming. It's no wonder he became so high in demand with Toei around the time, and he had a really solid career outside of tokusatsu too. One of the few Japanese actors who could say they were directed by Kinji Fukasaku AND Quentin Tarantino.
An absolute legend.
I was first introduced to Ohba-san via Gavan's appearance in Gokaiger, but I actually just finished the original Gavan series.
He brought so much grit, humanity, love, and passion to the character of Retsu/Gavan. He really helped carry the show through all the episodes, no matter what situation or Makuu crime he had to stop.
RIP Kenji Ohba. Jouchaku.
RIP to a legend
Full Thread: Kenji Ohba Has Passed Away
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