The world of anime bids farewell to one of its most influential figures. Tsutomu Shibayama, renowned director of the movies and series of Doraemon, has passed away at the age of 84 due to lung cancer, leaving behind a legacy that impacted several generations of viewers.
Born in Asakusa, Tokyo, Shibayama started his career as a manga artist under the pseudonym Hajime Sanjo, but it was in 1978 when he took a decisive step by founding the animation studio Ajia-do Animation Works. From there, he significantly contributed to the development of modern anime, working in both television and film.
His name is closely linked to the universe of Doraemon. For over two decades, he directed numerous feature films and the television series of the popular character created by the duo Fujiko Fujio, solidifying some of the most memorable stories and expanding the franchise's popularity beyond Japan. His style combined adventure, humor, and science fiction, aimed at entertaining a family audience.
But Shibayama's career was not limited to Doraemon. He was also a director in iconic series such as Ranma 1/2, leading the first season, as well as Nintama Rantaro and Chibi Maruko-chan. His involvement in these productions established him as a reference in Japanese animation, capable of creating stories that remain in the memory of multiple generations.
Throughout his career, he received various awards, including the Cultural Affairs Agency Award in 2012 for his contribution to the world of animation. His influence is perceived not only in the titles he directed but also in the cultural impact he had on those who grew up watching his works.