‘Doraemon’ at ‘Ranma ½’ director Tsutomu Shibayama, pumanaw na; sanhi ng pagkamatay, isiniwalat
- Tsutomu Shibayama, the legendary Japanese anime director behind Doraemon and Ranma ½, has passed away at the age of 84
- The announcement was made on March 17 by animation company AJIADO, confirming his death on March 6, 2026, and noting the cause of his passing
- His funeral was held privately, and a memorial service will be planned to celebrate his remarkable legacy
- Over his decades-long career, Shibayama left an indelible mark on anime, directing the Doraemon film series for more than 20 years and shaping beloved shows like Nintama Rantaro, Chibi Maruko-chan, and Majime ni Fumajime Kaiketsu Zorori
PAY ATTENTION: stay informed and follow us on Google News!
Tsutomu Shibayama, the acclaimed Japanese anime director best known for his work on iconic series such as Doraemon and Ranma ½, has passed away at the age of 84.
Source: Twitter
The announcement was made on Tuesday, March 17, through the official website of animation production company AJIADO, revealing that Shibayama died from lung cancer on March 6, 2026.
AJIADO’s statement on their website expressed both the news of his passing and a tribute to his long-standing career in animation. The message reads:
“Our former President and CEO, Tsutomu Shibayama, passed away on March 6, 2026, due to lung cancer. He was 84 years old.”
PAY ATTENTION: Follow us on Instagram - get the most important news directly in your favourite app!
The company highlighted Shibayama’s extensive contributions to the anime industry over several decades. Before becoming a leading director, he worked as an animation director on shows like Dokonjo Gaeru and Ganso Tensai Bakabon. Shibayama later directed the Doraemon film series for more than 20 years, shaping the beloved franchise and leaving a lasting impact on fans worldwide.
Beyond his work on Doraemon, Shibayama served as chief director for the TV series adaptation and also held the roles of director and general director on numerous other projects.
“He served as chief director for the TV series ‘Doraemon,’ and has worked as director and general director on numerous other works, including ‘Nintama Rantaro,’ ‘Chibi Maruko-chan,’ and ‘Majime ni Fumajime Kaiketsu Zorori.’”
The company also conveyed their appreciation for the support Shibayama received throughout his life.
“All of us at the company express our heartfelt gratitude for the kindness and warm support you extended to us during your lifetime.”
In keeping with the wishes of Shibayama’s family, the funeral was private, and the company asked the public to refrain from tributes or visits.
“The funeral was held privately with only close family members present, in accordance with the wishes of the bereaved family. We respectfully decline any floral tributes, monetary gifts, or visits of condolence.”
“We are planning to hold a memorial service at a later date. We will inform you of the date, time, and location as soon as they are decided,” it added.
Shibayama’s passing marks the end of an era in Japanese animation, as he leaves behind a legacy of timeless works that have touched generations of viewers both in Japan and around the world.
Tsutomu Shibayama is not the only prominent international figure to have passed away recently, as reports have also confirmed the deaths of several other well-known personalities.
Robert Carradine, best known for Lizzie McGuire and Revenge of the Nerds, has died at 71. His family revealed he had battled bipolar disorder for nearly two decades.
Earlier, Eric Dane, best known as Dr. Mark “McSteamy” Sloan on Grey’s Anatomy, has died at 53 after battling ALS. His family said he was surrounded by loved ones and thanked everyone for their support throughout his career and illness.
Bagong feature: Tingnan ang mga balitang para sa'yo ➡️ hanapin ang "Recommended for you" block at mag-enjoy!
Source: KAMI.com.gh
