Minami Takayama, born Izumi Arai on May 5, 1964, is a celebrated Japanese voice actress, narrator, and singer whose decades-long career has made her one of the most recognizable figures in the anime and entertainment industry. Best known for lending her voice to iconic characters such as Conan Edogawa in Detective Conan, Kiki in Kiki's Delivery Service, and Nabiki Tendo in Ranma ½, Takayama has captivated audiences with her versatile vocal range and dynamic performances. She is also the lead vocalist of the pop duo Two-Mix and was a member of the group ES CONNEXION, showcasing her musical talents alongside her voice acting prowess.

Born in Tokyo, Takayama was raised in a family with connections to the entertainment world; her uncle was Hisashi Shinma, a former managing director of New Japan Pro-Wrestling. She developed an early interest in performing arts and began her career in the 1980s, quickly establishing herself as a voice actress. Her breakthrough role came in 1989 when she voiced both Kiki and Ursula in Studio Ghibli's Kiki's Delivery Service, a performance that endeared her to audiences worldwide. That same year, she took on the role of Nabiki Tendo in the beloved series Ranma ½, further solidifying her reputation. In the early 1990s, she portrayed Moomin in the anime adaptation of Moomin and Yaiba Kurogane in Yaiba, demonstrating her ability to handle both gentle and energetic characters.

Takayama's career reached new heights in 1996 when she was cast as the titular character Conan Edogawa in Detective Conan, a role she has continued to voice for over two decades, making her synonymous with the franchise. This long-running series brought her international fame and critical acclaim. In the 2000s, she expanded her repertoire with roles like Hao Asakura in Shaman King, Envy in Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, and Hajime Hinata in the Danganronpa video game series. She also voiced Rantar? Inadera in the long-running educational comedy Nintama Rantar? and Fu Hua in the video game Honkai Impact 3rd, further showcasing her versatility across genres.

Alongside her voice acting, Takayama has pursued a successful music career. As the lead vocalist of Two-Mix, formed in 1995 with Shiina Nagano, she contributed to numerous anime theme songs, including those for Detective Conan and New Mobile Report Gundam Wing. The duo's energetic pop sound gained a dedicated following, and Takayama's powerful vocals became a hallmark of their work. She has also worked as a narrator for various television programs and events, maintaining a steady presence in the industry.

Currently affiliated with 81 Produce, Takayama continues to be active in voice acting, music, and narration. Her enduring role as Conan Edogawa remains a cornerstone of her career, and she frequently participates in live events and recordings for the series. With a legacy spanning over three decades, Minami Takayama stands as a pioneering figure in Japanese animation and music, admired for her talent, longevity, and the beloved characters she has brought to life.