Doraemon Director Tsutomu Shibayama Dies at 84 After Lung Cancer Battle

• Tsutomu Shibayama, director of the popular children's cartoon 'Doraemon', passed away at 84.
• He directed 'Doraemon' for over two decades and succumbed to lung cancer on March 6.
• Ajia-do Animation Works confirmed his demise on March 17, 2026, praising his significant contribution to the animation industry.
• Shibayama directed the 1979 'Doraemon' TV series and 22 feature films, making it a beloved cultural export.
• He also directed other animated shows like 'Chibi Maruko-chan' and co-founded Ajia-do Animation Works in 1978.