Tokyo, Mar 19: Tsutomu Shibayama, the acclaimed director of the belovedDoraemonTV anime series and films, has passed away at the age of 84 due to lung cancer, announced Japanese animation studio Asia-do (Ajia-do Animation Works).
In an official statement, the studio said, “Our former President and CEO, Tsutomu Shibayama, passed away on March 6, 2026, due to lung cancer. He was 84 years old.”
Shibayama was celebrated for directing theDoraemonfilm series for over two decades and served as chief director for the long-running TV series. His extensive career in animation also included work on popular shows such asDokonjo Gaeru,Ganso Tensai Bakabon,Nintama Rantaro,Chibi Maruko-chan, andMajime ni Fumajime Kaiketsu Zorori.
The funeral was held privately, attended only by close family members, in accordance with the family’s wishes. The studio requested that no floral tributes, monetary gifts, or condolence visits be made. They added, “All of us at the company express our heartfelt gratitude for the kindness and warm support you extended to us during his lifetime. We are planning to hold a memorial service at a later date.”
Shibayama’s most iconic creation,Doraemon, follows a cat-like robot from the 22nd century who travels back in time to help Nobita Nobi, a naive and clumsy elementary school boy, guiding him to make better choices for his future. The series has been cherished by generations and remains a cultural touchstone in Japan and beyond.
