Trigger warning: This article contains references to a person’s death.
Anime fans around the world are mourning the passing of acclaimed director Tatsuya Nagamine, best known for his work on the One Piece film: Z, Dragon Ball Super: Broly and the fascinating Wano arc of the One Piece anime. Nagamine died on August 20 at the age of 53 after battling an undisclosed illness, his family confirmed in a statement released on November 14.
According to the message shared on his official He told that his last rites were performed quietly, in which only close relatives were present.
A private memorial service for the director was held at Toei Animation on November 13. His family expressed gratitude for the gathering, writing, “Yesterday, November 13, Toei Animation hosted a private memorial gathering. We thank everyone who participated. We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone at Toei Animation for organizing such an event with great care.”
A look at their influence on anime
Nagamine was considered one of Toei Animation’s most trusted creative forces. His work shaped many iconic projects, and his direction during the One Piece Wano arc was widely praised for changing the visual tone of anime. His contributions extended to major titles such as Yes! PreCure 5, One Piece Film Z, and Dragon Ball Super: Broly all solidified his reputation as a visionary director in the anime industry.
His family also offered a glimpse of the man behind his famous career. They shared, “To us, he was a gentle, warm, and incredibly supportive husband and father. He continued to fight his illness with determination and did everything he could.” He said he remained motivated by the hope of returning home and returning to his work.
In their heartfelt message, his loved ones said, “We are heartbroken and filled with regret. But we are proud of him for always putting his whole heart into his work, parenting, and daily life. We imagine he is now resting above the clouds, reunited with senior colleagues and creators, perhaps talking about creating something together again.”
He concluded with a final note to fans: “To all those who supported him, we express our deepest gratitude. We would be grateful if you would continue to enjoy and cherish the works he contributed. Nerima, home of Oizumi Studio, where he spent more than half of his life, is clean today.”
Nagamine has left a powerful legacy in anime, remembered not only for his direction but for his kindness and dedication to his art. His work continues to be celebrated by fans around the world, ensuring that his influence lives on through the stories he helped create.
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