Kazuo Umezu, Iconic Manga Artist, Allegedly Passes Away at 88
It’s being reported that Kazuo Umezu, the legendary Japanese manga artist known for his haunting tales and signature red-and-white-striped shirt, has died in Tokyo. According to Shogakukan Inc., Umezu passed away at the age of 88 on October 28, following a battle with stomach cancer. This news has sent ripples through the manga community and beyond, as fans remember his incredible contributions to the genre.
Born in Wakayama Prefecture and raised in Nara, Umezu started drawing cartoons in elementary school. He made a name for himself in the 1960s with horror hits like Hebi Shojo (Reptilia) and Nekome Kozo (Cat Eyed Boy). His groundbreaking work, The Drifting Classroom, won the Shogakukan Manga Award in 1975 and captivated readers with its unique blend of horror and adventure, depicting school kids navigating a dystopian future.
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Umezu wasn’t just a master of horror; he also created the beloved Makoto-chan gag series, which became a cultural phenomenon. Kids across Japan would imitate the quirky “gwash” gesture of the main character, Makoto Sawada, showcasing his influence on youth culture. Furthermore, his science fiction comic Watashi wa Shingo (My Name is Shingo) earned accolades at the Angouleme International Comics Festival in 2018, proving his versatility as a creator.
Beyond manga, Umezu was a familiar face on Japanese television, often sporting his iconic striped shirt. In an intriguing move in 2007, he painted his house in the same red and white stripes, which sparked some local protests but only solidified his status as a unique figure in Japanese pop culture.
This alleged news marks the end of an era for fans of horror and manga, as Umezu’s storytelling will continue to inspire generations to come.