Veteran anime director and animator Yuji Yanase has died at the age of 53. Yanase passed away on August 22 after suffering a myocardial infarction, with the news confirmed by Junji Murata, president and CEO of animation studio MAHO FILM.

Yuji Yanase passes away

A private funeral has already been held by Yanase’s family, with only close relatives in attendance. Following the news, MAHO FILM paid tribute to the filmmaker and acknowledged his long-standing contribution to the studio’s creative work.