Vittorio Amandola was an Italian actor and voice actor, born in Perugia on 4 November 1952, who built a prolific career in dubbing, particularly known for providing the Italian voices for numerous characters in Western animation and anime. He began his career in theatre during the 1970s, achieving success as both an actor and director, before expanding his work to include film, television, and extensive voice acting. He passed away in Rome on 22 July 2010 at the age of 57.

Within the realm of anime, Amandola is most prominently recognized for his role as the titular creature in the Italian-language dubs of Studio Ghibli's films. He voiced Totoro in My Neighbor Totoro, the large, gentle spirit of the forest who befriends two young sisters. This performance is among his most beloved works, connecting him to one of Japanese animation's most iconic characters.

His other significant anime role was as the demon Ophisto Bazooka in the 1992 Italian adaptation of the erotic comedy OVA Hanappe Bazooka. He also lent his voice to Oompo in the 1989 animated film Little Nemo: Adventures in Slumberland.

Beyond these prominent parts, Amandola's voice can be heard in a wide array of anime series and films dubbed for the Italian market during the 1990s and 2000s. His credits include voicing characters in long-running and popular series such as Ranma ½, where he voiced Principal Kuno; various roles in the Dragon Ball Z movies, notably as the Elder Kai in the first edition dubs; and parts in Digimon Adventure, City Hunter 3, and Paranoia Agent. He was also involved in the Italian-language adaptations of series as an adapter, contributing dialogues for shows like Captain Tsubasa J, Oban Star-Racers, and Transformers: Armada.

Amandola's work in dubbing was characterized by a distinctive and versatile voice, which made him a frequent choice for a variety of character types, from benevolent creatures to eccentric villains. While his anime roles were a significant part of his career, he was also widely known for being the long-time Italian voice of several iconic Western animation characters. These included Waylon Smithers in The Simpsons, Goofy in Disney productions, and Yosemite Sam in Looney Tunes. His contributions to Italian dubbing have left a lasting legacy, connecting Italian audiences to many beloved characters from both Eastern and Western animation.