Tsutomu Shibayama, the legendary director of the "Doraemon" TV series and films, has passed away from lung cancer at 84, announced Ajia-do Animation Works. Known for over 20 years of work on "Doraemon" and other anime like Nintama Rantaro and Chibi Maruko-chan, his funeral was held privately, with a memorial planned later.

Tokyo: The 'Doraemon' director Tsutomu Shibayama has passed away due to lung cancer at the age of 84 years old, announced by the Japanese animation studio Asia-do, also known as Ajia-do Animation Works.

In their obituary, the company announced, "Our former President and CEO, Tsutomu Shibayama, passed away on March 6, 2026, due to lung cancer. He was 84 years old."

Shibayama was popularly known for his direction of the 'Doraemon' TV anime series and movies. He directed the "Doraemon" film series for over 20 years.

Prior to it, Shibayama worked as an animation director on shows like 'Dokonjo Gaeru' and 'Ganso Tensai Bakabon.'