Kyoto Animation President Hideaki Hatta dies aged 76

Kyoto Animation has announced the death of its longtime President and Chief Executive Officer, Hideaki Hatta, who died on February 16, 2026, at the age of 76.

Hatta led the studio from its founding in 1985, guiding it for more than four decades as it became one of Japan’s most respected animation houses.

Though he was not a director or animator himself, he oversaw an era that produced globally acclaimed anime titles and helped expand the studio’s international reputation.

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During his tenure, Kyoto Animation released major works including Clannad, K-On!, Violet Evergarden, A Silent Voice, The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya, Free!, and Sound! Euphonium, cementing its status as a leading powerhouse in the anime scene.

Hatta also led the studio through one of the darkest moments in its history. In 2019, an arson attack at Kyoto Animation’s Studio 1 building killed 36 people and injured dozens more, shocking the global anime community. The company later rebuilt and continued production, with Hatta remaining at the helm.

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The studio confirmed the news via a statement published on its official website on March 2, which also announced an immediate leadership transition.

The full statement from Kyoto Animation reads:

“We regret to announce the passing of our company’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Hideaki Hatta, on February 16, 2026, at the age of 76.

We extend our deepest gratitude for the kindness and support shown to him throughout his life and respectfully provide this statement with sincere appreciation.

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Since our founding in 1985, for more than four decades, he served as President with the guiding principle of ‘all-hands-on-deck,’ striving to build an entertainment company that values people and is grounded in sincere animation production.

Shinichiro Hatta has been appointed President and Chief Executive Officer effective immediately, to continue the work and values carried on by Hideaki Hatta. We remain committed to creating work that can be enjoyed by people all over the world, carrying forward the spirit in our ‘all-hands-on-deck’ principle.

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In addition, the wake and funeral service were held privately among family members. No floral tributes, monetary contributions, or visits will be accepted under any circumstances. We thank you for your understanding.”