Legendary composer and jazz pianist Yuji Ohno, best known for his iconic work on the "Lupin the 3rd" series, passed away peacefully on May 4, 2026, at the age of 84 due to natural causes. The news was officially announced on May 13 via Ohno's official website and X account.
Born on May 30, 1941, in Atami, Shizuoka Prefecture, Yuji Ohno began playing piano in elementary school and later taught himself jazz in high school. While attending Keio University, he joined the "Light Music Society" and launched his career as a jazz pianist with the Koji Fujika Quintet.
Ohno's journey continued through his time with the Hideo Shiraki Quintet, and he even formed his own trio. After the band disbanded, he pivoted to composing, creating numerous commercial jingles and scoring films and TV shows like "The Inugami Family" and "Proof of the Man," leaving behind a legacy of timeless classics. His unique, emotionally rich, and grand musical style is widely recognized as a significant precursor to Japan's golden age of Fusion Jazz.
In recent years, Ohno's composing efforts primarily centered on the "Lupin the 3rd" series and the NHK program "Chiisana Tabi" (Small Journeys). Concurrently, he made a vibrant return to the stage as a performer. Beyond his ongoing "Yuji Ohno Trio" activities, he formed "Yuji Ohno & Lupintic Five" in 2006, which later evolved into "Yuji Ohno & Lupintic Six" in 2016.
From intimate Tokyo jazz clubs and national tour halls to lively live houses and major rock festivals, his performances captivated audiences everywhere.
In the anime world, Yuji Ohno has been synonymous with "Lupin the 3rd" ever since the birth of "The Theme of Lupin the 3rd" in 1977. More than just a composer, he continuously brought "Lupin's music in progress" to audiences as an active performer.
According to the official announcement, Ohno maintained his normal daily routine right up until his passing, peacefully departing in his sleep without suffering.
In accordance with his family's wishes, a private funeral and farewell ceremony have already been held. A public memorial service is expected to be organized in the future.
The official "Lupin the 3rd" X account also posted a tribute, expressing gratitude for Yuji Ohno's long and active contributions, providing countless pieces of music since "Lupin the 3rd Part 2" began in 1977. 
via： X@大野雄二公式