Doraemon director Shibayama Tsutomu dies of lung cancer at 84
Japanese animation personality Shibayama Tsutomu, best known for his work on Doraemon, Lupine III and other popular series, has died at the age of 84. His death was announced by his co-founded studio Ajia-do Animation Works, and a private funeral has already taken place.
Shibayama Tsutomu, the creative force behind Doraemon More than two decades later, he died at the age of 84. His death due to lung cancer was announced by Ajia-do Animation Works on March 17, 2026. According to the studio, Shibayama died on March 6.
The studio said in its official statement, “Shibayama Tsutomu, the animation director who supervised Doraemon series for over 20 years, died of lung cancer on the 6th,” also recognizing his immense contribution to the anime industry.
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Often referred to in Japan as the ‘Father of National Animation’, Shibayama played a pivotal role in shaping one of the country’s most beloved cultural exports. He directed 1979 Doraemon The television series and directed 22 feature films based on the franchise, cementing its place among generations.
His journey in animation began in 1963 at Toei Animation, before he moved to A Production, now known as Shin-Ei Animation. Over the years, his work progressed DoraemonWith contributions to titles like chibi maruko-chan, Lupine IIIAnd Majime ni Fumajime Kaiketsu Zorori.
In 1978, Shibayama co-founded Ajiya-do Animation Works with Osamu Kobayashi and Michishiro Yamada, further strengthening his influence within the industry.
The studio confirmed that his funeral was held privately in keeping with the family’s wishes. A separate memorial event is expected to be announced later.
In recognition of his decades-long contributions to animation, Shibayama was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Japan Agency for Cultural Affairs in 2012.