Ashita no Joe Creator Tetsuya Chiba Dies at 87, Manga Industry Pays Tribute

Manga artist Tetsuya Chiba, best known for Ashita no Joe, died at a Tokyo hospital on October 22 at the age of 87. Following news of his death, fellow manga creators and major publishers including Kodansha, Shogakukan and Shueisha shared tributes honoring his work and contributions to the manga industry.

Manga Creators and Publishers Remember Tetsuya Chiba

Manga Creators and Publishers Remember Tetsuya Chiba

Hajime no Ippo creator George Morikawa posted a brief message of gratitude, while Muteki no Subaru creator Nariaki Narita recalled Chiba as a mentor during his time at Bunsei University of Art, writing that another one of his goals in life had disappeared.

Ami Shibata, Shinobu Kaitani and Kingdom creator Yasuhisa Hara also reflected on Chiba's influence on their work and careers. Hara, who came through the Chiba Tetsuya Award, thanked Chiba for continuing to watch over him after his debut.

Kodansha praised Chiba's 70-year career and his long-standing support for younger manga artists through the Chiba Tetsuya Award. Shogakukan and Shueisha also expressed their gratitude for his contributions to manga and the development of future generations.

The Japan Cartoonists Association, where Chiba served as chairman, said he had made major contributions to the promotion of manga, creative activity and the status of manga artists. His funeral was held privately with close family members.

Source : ORICON NEWS