Kyoto Animation announced that Hideaki Hatta, their president and CEO for many years, passed away on February 16, 2026, at the age of 76.
Hatta founded the studio in 1985 and led it for over forty years, building it into one of Japan’s most highly regarded animation companies.
Although he wasn’t an animator or director, he led the studio during a period of incredible success, producing world-renowned anime and significantly boosting its international recognition.
Kyoto Animation became a major force in the anime industry by producing popular and critically acclaimed series such as Clannad, K-On!, Violet Evergarden, A Silent Voice, The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya, Free!, and Sound! Euphonium.
Hatta guided Kyoto Animation through a devastating tragedy. In 2019, a fire intentionally set at Studio 1 took the lives of 36 people and injured many others, deeply impacting anime fans worldwide. Despite this horrific event, the company was rebuilt, and Hatta continued to lead it.
On March 2nd, the studio announced the news and a change in leadership through a statement on its website.
株式会社京都アニメーション【お知らせ】
— 京都アニメーション (@kyoani) March 2, 2026
The full statement from Kyoto Animation reads:
It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of our President and CEO, Hideaki Hatta, who died on February 16, 2026, at the age of 76.
I just want to say, on behalf of everyone who loved him, how incredibly grateful we are for all the kindness and support he received during his life. We’re sharing this statement with a lot of love and appreciation for everything.
Since 1985, for over forty years, he led the company as President, always believing in a collaborative, team-focused approach. His goal was to create an entertainment company that genuinely valued its people and prioritized quality animation.
Shinichiro Hatta is now the President and CEO, taking over from Hideaki Hatta and continuing his legacy. We’re still dedicated to making content that people worldwide will love, and we’ll keep working together as a team to achieve that.
The wake and funeral were small, private events for the family. We respectfully request no flowers, donations, or visits. Thank you for your understanding.
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2026-03-02 13:18