On October 26, 2024, the anime community mourned the unexpected passing of Ryo Kono, the renowned art director behind the celebrated series Mob Psycho 100. Her nephew announced via X (formerly Twitter) that she had passed away on October 23, reportedly due to gastrointestinal bleeding. As of now, the family has not publicly disclosed the official cause of her death.
The prospects of further updates concerning Kono’s condition seem dim, particularly considering the status of her X account, which has been restricted. This move appears to be made in honor of Kono, who played a significant role in the anime industry. Whether fans will receive more information remains to be seen.
Legacy of Ryo Kono: A Pillar in Anime Art Direction
Ryo Kono left an indelible mark on the anime landscape, particularly as the art director for all seasons of Mob Psycho 100 and the acclaimed Devilman Crybaby on Netflix. Her expertise also extended to popular series such as Space Dandy, Super Crookers, Paranoia Agent, The Rolling Girls, Kemonozume, and Carole & Tuesday.
Additionally, Kono contributed as a background artist on a multitude of influential projects, including classics like Kids on the Slope, the Psycho-Pass movie, Perfect Blue, and the revered Ninja Scroll. Her nephew emphasized that each of her contributions was a source of immense pride for their family.
Although information about Kono’s personal life remains sparse, her professional journey in the anime sector spans back to the late 1980s. The impact of her work is evidenced by the series she influenced, many of which are recognized as monumental works in the anime realm, paving the way for future generations.
One of Kono’s most notable contributions is her work on Mob Psycho 100, frequently heralded as one of the most innovative anime series of recent years. Based on the web manga by One, which began serialization in April 2012 and concluded in December 2017, this series redefined shonen expectations.
Beginning its journey in July 2016, Mob Psycho 100 premiered its first season comprising 12 episodes, followed by a 13-episode second season in January 2019, and concluded with a 12-episode third season launched in October 2022. The series has garnered critical acclaim for its distinctive narrative and artistic style, securing a revered position in anime history.
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