Doraemon Director Tsutomu Shibayama Passes Away At 84 From Lung Cancer

(MENAFN- AsiaNet News)

The ‘Doraemon’ director Tsutomu Shibayama has passed away due to lung cancer at the age of 84, announced by the Japanese animation studio Asia-do, also known as Ajia-do Animation Works. In their obituary, the company stated, “Our former President and CEO, Tsutomu Shibayama, passed away on March 6, 2026, due to lung cancer. He was 84 years old.”

A Storied Career in Animation

Shibayama was widely known for directing the ‘Doraemon’ TV anime series and movies. He directed the “Doraemon” film series for over 20 years. Before that, Shibayama worked as an animation director on shows like ‘Dokonjo Gaeru’ and ‘Ganso Tensai Bakabon.’

“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 obituary from the animation studio read.

Private Funeral and Future Memorial

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,” added the animation studio.

They also expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the director for the love and support from fans during his lifetime. “All of us at the company extend our heartfelt thanks for the kindness and warm support you showed us during his lifetime. We are planning to hold a memorial service at a later date,” the studio said.

About ‘Doraemon’

Shibayama’s popular creation, ‘Doraemon,’ is the series that follows the title character, a cat-like robot from the 22nd century who travels back in time to help a naive and clumsy elementary school boy named Nobita Nobi and guide him toward a better future. (ANI)

(This story has not been edited by Asianet Newsable English staff and is published from a syndicated feed, except for the headline.)