[Obituary] Manga Artist Keiko Okamoto Dies of Cerebral Hemorrhage; Family Remembers Her as “A Noble Soul”

Keiko Okamoto, the manga artist known for Ochikobore Hoketsu Reijo wa Tsumetai Koushaku kara Nigedashitai, passed away from a cerebral hemorrhage on May 6, 2026. The news was announced by her family through her official X account.

According to the statement, “We regret to share this sudden news. Manga artist Keiko Okamoto passed away on May 6, 2026, due to a cerebral hemorrhage. Her passing came unexpectedly, and we apologize for the delay in informing everyone.”

The family reflected on Okamoto’s lifelong dedication to manga, recalling how she often spoke about her desire to create a hit work, continue drawing, and keep expressing herself through storytelling. They remembered her saying, “Drawing sparkling worlds makes me happy,” and explained that she believed the panels and words she created could become a source of strength for someone else, just as manga had been for her.

Remembering Keiko Okamoto’s Passion for Manga

The statement continued by describing the deep grief left behind by her sudden passing. Her family shared that Okamoto often said, “Manga is the only thing I can do,” and “Even if I were reborn, I would want to become a manga artist again.”

They expressed their hope that she was able to live a life she could be proud of as a manga creator, surrounded by supportive colleagues and collaborators. They also extended their heartfelt gratitude to readers, editors, friends, and assistants who supported her throughout her career and helped make it possible for her to continue drawing.

The message concluded:
“She poured her love into manga, her friends, her family, and her beloved dog. She was kind, humorous, and noble. We hope people will continue reading her works and remembering the moments she created. More than anything, we believe that is what she would have wanted. Thank you very much for all your support over the years.”

Publisher Pays Tribute

The editorial team behind The Dropout Substitute Lady Wants to Escape From the Cold Duke, serialized on Comic Maomao, also released a statement mourning her loss.
The publisher wrote:
“Keiko Okamoto passed away in May 2026. Until the very end, she approached this work with sincerity, treating each character with affection and continuing to draw them with great care. We extend our deepest gratitude for her contributions and offer our heartfelt condolences. We would also like to thank all readers who supported and enjoyed this series.”

Source : ORICON NEWS