Hideaki Hatta, the longtime president of Kyoto Animation, died on February 16, 2026 at the age of 76. The studio announced his death on its website on March 2. Fans worldwide felt the loss of a leader who helped shape modern anime. The announcement also noted that a private wake and funeral took place with family only. No flowers, donations, or visits were requested.
A Life Dedicated to Anime
Born in Fukui city, Hideaki Hatta co‑founded Kyoto Animation with his wife Yoko in 1981. He became president when the studio officially opened in 1985. Over four decades, he guided the studio from a small outsourcing house to a powerhouse that produced titles such as Kanon, The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya, Clannad, and K‑On!. He lived by the principle of “all hands on deck” and valued sincere animation production. Even after the tragic arson attack in 2019, Hatta led the studio back to strength and kept its creative spirit alive.
Transition of Leadership to Shinichiro Hatta
The studio confirmed that Shinichiro Hatta, the late president’s eldest son, assumed the role of president and CEO immediately after the announcement. Shinichiro has long worked as a producer, production manager, and assistant producer on many Kyoto Animation projects. As the new CEO, he vows to continue his father’s values and keep the studio’s work accessible to fans worldwide. The smooth transition aims to preserve the studio’s reputation for quality and heart.
Legacy of the Kyoto Animation Founder
Hideaki Hatta’s impact reaches beyond individual shows. He championed a workplace that treats staff with respect and encourages artistic growth. His belief that animation is the greatest form of expression inspired countless creators. In a 2020 interview with Crunchyroll News, he said that the best support for animation is for people to keep watching and appreciating the art form. This philosophy still guides Kyoto Animation today.
The anime community remembers Hatta for his humility, vision, and dedication. Colleagues describe him as a kind mentor who never demanded credit but always demanded excellence. His death marks the end of an era, yet his spirit lives on through the studio’s ongoing projects and the new leadership of Shinichiro Hatta.
Source: Crunchyroll
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