On Monday, November 4, 2024, Studio GONZO announced the passing of Shigemi Ikeda, the esteemed art director known for his influential work on My Hero Academia and One Punch Man. Ikeda, who died on Sunday, October 13, 2024, was 69 years old. This unfortunate news was first shared through a post on Ikeda’s X (formerly Twitter) account by his family on Friday, October 25.
Shigemi Ikeda: A Remarkable Legacy in Anime
Ikeda’s career, which spanned several decades, left an indelible mark on the anime industry. While his contributions to all seven seasons of My Hero Academia and the first two seasons of One Punch Man are particularly noteworthy, his portfolio also includes significant work on other beloved series such as Afro Samurai, Gantz, Inuyasha, and multiple Mobile Suit Gundam projects.
A private funeral service honoring Ikeda was held for family and close friends, as indicated in the message from his official X account. The family requested that well-wishers refrain from sending flowers or condolence gifts. Currently, the last update on his X account will likely remain unchanged as a tribute to his memory.
A Celebrated Career and Recognition
In addition to his expansive anime contributions, Ikeda received an “Outstanding Individual Achievement In Animation” Primetime Emmy Award in 2009, celebrating his role as art director on Afro Samurai: Resurrection. He also founded Atelier Musa in August 1986, a background art studio where he served as representative.
Notable Works Beyond the Spotlight
Looking beyond the major series, Ikeda’s directorial talents extended to a vast array of acclaimed anime. Some of these titles include:
- Bastard!!
- Bokurano
- Gasaraki
- Library War
- Phantom – The Animation
- planets
- Starship Troopers
- Macross Delta
- Fanazi Doll
- Boogiepop and Others
- Overlord (all four seasons and all films)
- My Teen Romantic Comedy SNAFU
- The Promised Neverland (both seasons)
- Yashahime: Princess Half-Demon
- Infinite Ryvius
- Bubblegum Crisis
- Bubblegum Crisis: Tokyo 2040
A Loss Felt Across the Community
The anime community is mourning Ikeda’s loss, with fans celebrating his unique artistic vision that significantly shaped numerous series. His work, especially on Afro Samurai, exemplified Ikeda’s exceptional talent and creativity. His passing is a substantial loss for the anime industry, which has lost one of its most influential figures.
Continued Influence of My Hero Academia
My Hero Academia, adapted from Kohei Horikoshi’s manga, began serialization in Shueisha’s Weekly Shonen Jump in July 2014 and concluded in August 2024, capping more than ten years of storytelling. The anime also wrapped its seventh season in October 2024, a testament to the enduring impact of Ikeda’s artistry.
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