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Beloved Animator Tsutomu Shibayama Passes Away at 84

3/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Tsutomu Shibayama died on March 6, 2026, at age 84 after battling lung cancer.
He was celebrated for Doraemon and Chibi Maruko-chan and for directing Doraemon films for over two decades.
He co-founded Ajiado Animation Works in 1978.
His career included directing Ranma 1/2 and Nintama Rantaro.
He received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Tokyo Anime Award Festival in 2018.

History

Historical Context

In 1978, Tsutomu Shibayama co-founded Ajiado Animation Works, alongside Osamu Kobayashi and Michishiro Yamada, marking a pivotal moment in Japanese animation. The studio produced beloved series like Doraemon and Chibi Maruko-chan, which became cultural staples. Shibayama's contributions were recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2018, highlighting the lasting impact of his work on global animation.

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Story summary

Tsutomu Shibayama died on March 6, 2026, at age 84 after battling lung cancer.
He was celebrated for Doraemon and Chibi Maruko-chan and for directing Doraemon films for over two decades.
He co-founded Ajiado Animation Works in 1978.
His career included directing Ranma 1/2 and Nintama Rantaro.
He received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Tokyo Anime Award Festival in 2018.

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