Reiko Tajima is a prominent Japanese actress, voice actress, and narrator, best known for her versatile performances across film, television drama, and anime.
She was born on February 17, 1949, in Yotsuya, Shinjuku, Tokyo, and grew up in Yokosuka, Kanagawa.
Her powerful voice and elegant screen presence have made her an iconic figure in both live-action and voice acting circles.
Tajima is particularly remembered for voicing strong female characters, including Oscar in "The Rose of Versailles" and Queen Emeraldas in Leiji Matsumoto’s universe.
Over her long-standing career since 1970, she has become a beloved artist, frequently praised for her dignified yet approachable demeanor and professionalism.
Reiko Tajima was born in Tokyo but raised in Yokosuka, Kanagawa.
An only child, she grew up shy and preferred solitary activities such as reading.
She studied in the Department of Theater at Nihon University’s College of Arts, experiencing the famous campus protests that disrupted her education for a year.
Through a friend’s recommendation, she began working part-time as a radio assistant before launching her acting journey by joining a theater troupe during her university years.
Tajima made her film debut in 1971 in the comedy "You Have to Do Your Best!" and quickly established herself in Japanese cinema.
One of her early notable roles was in "Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla" (1974), where she played a major part among the cast.
She transitioned into voice acting with great success, becoming iconic for voicing Oscar François de Jarjayes in "The Rose of Versailles" anime—a role that won her nationwide recognition.
Her strong, dynamic voice also brought life to Queen Emeraldas in the Galaxy Express 999 universe, and she has voiced or dubbed for big Hollywood names like Kathleen Turner, Faye Dunaway, and Sigourney Weaver in Japanese releases.
Tajima starred in countless dramas and movies through the decades, taking on diverse roles including mothers, detectives, and even villains.
She famously played difficult mother figures in multiple series of "3rd Year Class B, Mr. Kinpachi", leaving a lasting impression on Japanese drama fans.
Apart from acting, she appeared in variety shows and lent her voice as a narrator to documentaries and educational programs.
Notably, she was the voice behind the main character in the Japanese dub of "The Bionic Woman", and performed the song "Jamie’s Love," which was released as a single.
Tajima received the Best Picture Award at the TAMA Film Festival in 2017 as part of the cast of "The Tokyo Night Sky Is Always the Densest Shade of Blue."
Her work in both live-action and voice acting has earned her widespread respect and frequent invitations to participate in high-profile projects and festivals.
Tajima has always embraced privacy regarding her personal affairs, focusing public attention on her artistry rather than her private life.
She enjoys calligraphy as a hobby and is skilled in swimming, reflecting her graceful yet strong persona.
Her distinctive deep voice and refined intonation made her the ideal casting for regal or commanding women.
She recorded "Jamie’s Love," a song related to "The Bionic Woman," riding on the popularity of the drama series.
Manga legend Leiji Matsumoto originally hoped she would play Maetel in "Galaxy Express 999," highlighting how her voice became synonymous with iconic female leads.
She once performed a notable nude scene in the 1986 film "The Promise of a Human," showcasing her commitment to challenging roles.
Reiko Tajima was also known as the third "Storytelling Sister" on the beloved children’s TV program "Okaasan to Issho."
She continues to work with Alpha Agency and remains active in TV, film, and stage.
Reiko Tajima’s resilience and versatility keep her in demand across generations, and her performances continue to inspire both fans and aspiring actors alike.
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