Commemorating the Legacies of Prominent Figures We Lost in 2024

Kishin Shinoyama (Age 83)

Passed away on January 10. Emerging as a talent during his days in the photography department at Nihon University, Shinoyama’s works ranged from album covers for Momoe Yamaguchi and John Lennon & Yoko Ono to kabuki and nude photography collections featuring Kanako Higuchi and Rie Miyazawa. Known for coining terms like “Gekisha” and “Hair Nude,” he defined the photographic trends of his era.

Seiji Ozawa (Age 88)

Passed away on February 6. A globally renowned conductor, Ozawa studied under Karajan and held roles such as Music Director for the Boston Symphony Orchestra and the Vienna State Opera. In his youth, his fiery spirit led him to embark on a European journey by scooter. He is survived by his actor son, Yukiyoshi Ozawa, and his nephew, musician Kenji Ozawa.

Akira Toriyama (Age 68)

Passed away on March 1. The legendary manga artist and character designer captured the world with works such as *Dr. Slump*, *Dragon Ball*, and *Dragon Quest*. Toriyama was instrumental in spreading “MANGA” internationally, with his death reported across the globe, including China and the Middle East. Despite his fame, he spent his entire life in his hometown of Kiyosu City, Aichi Prefecture.

TARAKO (Age 63)

Passed away on March 4. Known for her work as a voice actress, singer-songwriter, and essayist, she gained national fame as the voice of Momoko Sakura in *Chibi Maruko-chan* from 1990. Her voice’s uncanny resemblance to the original author’s voice secured her the role. However, TARAKO identified more as a singer-songwriter than as a voice actress.

Fuzjko Hemming (Age 91)

Passed away on April 21. A pianist acclaimed in both Japan and the West, Fuzjko overcame hardships, including losing her hearing due to illness during her time in Europe. Her return to Japan marked a turning point, as an NHK documentary brought her immense fame. Her first album, *Miraculous Campanella*, became a massive hit, propelling her as a late-blooming star.

Mieko Osanai (Age 94)

Passed away on May 2. A celebrated scriptwriter best known for the *3rd Year Class B Teacher Kinpachi* series. Her contributions to TBS dramas, despite occasional disputes, are well-remembered. She also scripted NHK's *Tobu ga Gotoku*. Her son, actor Go Riju, provided invaluable insights into the perspective of teenagers during her works.

Nobuyo Oyama (Age 90)

Passed away on September 29. Renowned for voicing Doraemon from 1979 to 2005, Oyama’s iconic laughter became a trademark of the series. A skilled cook and mahjong enthusiast, she shared a close friendship with Hibari Misora through their mahjong games.

Takashi Inomata (Age 88)

Passed away on October 4. A jazz drummer who laid the foundations of Japan’s jazz scene with his exceptional rhythm and creativity. Inomata led *Sound Limited*, fusing jazz with rock and mentoring aspiring musicians through his Rhythm Clinic Center.

Toshiyuki Nishida (Age 76)

Passed away on October 17. A beloved actor and singer from Fukushima Prefecture, Nishida captivated audiences with his versatile acting and charming personality. His notable works include *Journey to the West*, *Tsuribaka Nisshi*, and numerous Taiga dramas. His hit song *Moshimo Paino ga Hiketanara (If Only I Could Play the Piano)* remains a classic.

Kazuo Umezu (Age 88)

Passed away on October 28. Known as the “God of Horror Manga,” Umezu also excelled in comedy, with his gag manga *Makoto-chan* becoming a cultural phenomenon. His series *The Drifting Classroom* won the Shogakukan Manga Award and was adapted into a film.

Shuntaro Tanikawa (Age 92)

Passed away on November 3. A postwar poet, Tanikawa was known for his accessible yet profound works, such as *Morning Relay*, widely featured in Japanese textbooks. He also translated the *Peanuts* series, introducing it to a broader Japanese audience.

Miho Nakayama (Age 54)

Passed away on December 6. Debuting in the drama *Excuse Me for Being Troublesome* in 1985 and as a singer with *C*, she quickly rose to stardom. Known as "Miporin," her hit song *The Best in the World* and numerous starring roles in dramas and films defined her legacy.