After suffering an arson attack in 2019, Kyoto Animation (KyoAni), following two years of rebuilding and recovery, has seen its animation production return to normal, with the studio restoring its original capacity.
On March 2, the company announced on its official X account that its Representative Director and President, Hideaki Hatta, passed away on February 16 at the age of 76. This news prompted an outpouring of respect and gratitude across Japanese social media for the man who oversaw the creation of many classic works.
Hideaki Hatta previously worked on animation finishing and coloring at Tezuka Productions. He later founded Kyoto Animation Studio in 1981, taking on finishing subcontracting work for Tatsunoko Production and Sunrise. In 1985, the company was incorporated, and Hatta assumed the role of president, which he held until his passing.
Initially, the studio primarily handled subcontracted work for other animation studios. In March 2003, Kyoto Animation released its first independent production, the original anime "MUNTO". In August of the same year, its first novel adaptation, "Full Metal Panic!", debuted. Subsequent works like "The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya", "Lucky Star", and "Hyouka" propelled Kyoto Animation to prominence, establishing it as a beloved studio among anime fans.
Here is the full official announcement:
March 2, 2026: Regarding the Passing of Our Representative Director and President, Hideaki Hatta
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our Representative Director and President, Hideaki Hatta, on February 16, 2026, at the age of 76. We express our profound gratitude for the kindness and support he received throughout his life.
Since the company's founding in 1985, for over forty years, the deceased consistently upheld the belief of "creating works together." He dedicated himself to sincere and diligent animation production, striving to build an entertainment company that values every creator and employee, and continuously fulfilled his duties as president.
Hideaki Hatta's position has been succeeded by his eldest son, Shinichiro Hatta. All employees will inherit the late president's vision and will continue to work together to produce works that audiences worldwide can enjoy.
Furthermore, the wake and funeral services were privately held by the family. We respectfully decline floral tributes, condolences, and offerings. We appreciate your understanding.
Kyoto Animation Co., Ltd.
Indeed, following the arson attack, Hideaki Hatta tirelessly dedicated himself to providing psychological care for the families of the victims and affected employees, as well as to the company's rebuilding efforts. He also worked continuously to restore the company's production capacity, enabling Kyoto Animation to restart its operations. Many KyoAni fans and the Japanese public were deeply moved by the sight of the president's frequent and determined efforts in the aftermath of the fire.
Now, as Kyoto Animation gradually recovers and resumes its work, the news of the president's passing comes as a shock. Many fans are heartbroken and express their gratitude for his decades of dedication.