Japanese voice actors, known as seiyuu, play a crucial role in bringing animated characters to life in anime and video games. They provide unique voices that enhance the storytelling experience, making characters memorable and relatable to audiences worldwide. The profession has gained immense popularity, with many voice actors becoming celebrities in their own right. Notable figures like Maaya Sakamoto and Nobuo Uematsu have made significant contributions to the industry, showcasing their talents in various genres and formats, from television series to feature films.