Kazuya Tatekabe was a Japanese actor and voice actor born on July 20, 1934, in Kimobetsu, Hokkaido. He passed away on June 18, 2015, at the age of 80. Tatekabe had a lengthy career in the industry spanning over six decades, from 1954 until his death. He was affiliated with several agencies throughout his career, including the Tokyo Actor's Consumer's Cooperative Society, Production Baobab, and at the time of his death, he was represented by the Kenyu Office. Beyond his performance work, he also took on managerial duties, particularly during his time at Production Baobab, and was known for discovering and nurturing new voice acting talent.

Tatekabe is best known for his long-running role as Takeshi Goda, better known as Gian or Jaian, in the second series of the anime Doraemon. He voiced the character for 26 years from 1979 until the cast was replaced in 2005. His portrayal of the strong-willed local bully became iconic, and he was even responsible for creating Gian's signature boastful song on the spot when asked by staff. Another of his most famous roles was Tonzura, the short, muscular member of the Dorombo Gang villains in the first Time Bokan series, Yatterman, which began in 1977. He would reprise this role, alongside his original co-stars, for a new adaptation of the series in 2008.

Throughout his career, Tatekabe had a significant and recurring presence in the various entries of the Time Bokan series produced by Tatsunoko Production. In addition to Tonzura, his many roles within this franchise included Dowarusuki in Time Patrol-Tai Otasukeman, Alan Sukadon in Yattodetaman, Kyokanchin in Gyakuten Ippatsu-man, and Tonmentan in Itadakiman. His distinctive voice was frequently cast for characters who were strong, middle-aged, aliens, or otherwise larger-than-life figures that were difficult to hate.

In recognition of his contributions to animation, Tatekabe received several awards alongside his fellow main cast members from the Doraemon series. This group won the Tayama Tsutomu Prize at the 14th Japan Film Critics Awards in 2005, a Special Prize at the 11th Anime Kobe event in 2006, and the 3rd Achievement Award at the Tokyo International Animation Fair in 2007.