Masashi Ebara is a highly respected Japanese actor, voice actor, and narrator, born on May 4, 1953, in Kanagawa Prefecture. He is currently affiliated with Aoni Production, one of Japan's leading talent management agencies. His journey into the performing arts was unconventional; inspired by the films of Charlie Chaplin during his school years, he initially aspired to work in filmmaking. He enrolled at the Toho Performing Arts Academy, which set him on the path to becoming an actor. Before focusing on voice work, he gained valuable experience with theatre companies such as Gekidan Subaru and 81 Produce.

Ebara's career in voice acting is extensive and spans a remarkable variety of roles in anime, video games, and foreign film dubbing. He is particularly renowned in Japan as the official Japanese dubbing voice for numerous Hollywood stars, including Tom Hanks, Robin Williams, Bill Murray, and Wesley Snipes. His dedicated research into the performances of these actors has made his voice synonymous with them for Japanese audiences.

In the world of anime, his career is highlighted by several iconic and long-running roles. He is widely recognized as the voice of Might Guy in the immensely popular Naruto and Naruto Shippuden series. He also brought gravitas to the role of Alastor, the powerful Crimson Lord, throughout the Shakugan no Shana franchise, including its TV series, specials, and films. His filmography demonstrates a remarkable range, from the villainous Dramaturgy in the Kizumonogatari films to the surprising casting as the short-tempered Popuko in one half of an episode of the surreal comedy Pop Team Epic. Other notable anime roles include Hohenheim Elric in Fullmetal Alchemist, Toshiya Joshima in Initial D, Raizo in One Piece, and Bob McCarthy in Baki Hanma.

His work is not limited to television; he has also had significant roles in animated films. He voiced Latios in the theatrical feature Pokémon Heroes and has appeared in acclaimed movies such as Perfect Blue and Metropolis. In the realm of video games, Ebara's powerful and nuanced voice has brought to life characters like Sazh Katzroy in Final Fantasy XIII and Mr. Satan in Dragon Ball Z: Kakarot.

Throughout his career, Ebara has demonstrated a consistent ability to portray characters with intensity, wisdom, or comedy, making him a beloved and enduring figure in the Japanese entertainment industry. His contributions, particularly in film dubbing, have been recognized with special awards for his adept and creative performances. He continues to be active in the industry, taking on new roles and mentoring younger voice actors.