Horror manga author Kazuo Umezu, known as the 'God of Horror Manga', passed away on October 28 at the age of 88. His funeral was held privately, with only family and associates present. kindly attended.
A public memorial service will be arranged later in his memory.
According to Yomiuri Shimbun, Umezu died of stomach cancer.
Umezu collapsed at his home in Kichijoji in Tokyo in July 2024 and was later diagnosed with late-stage stomach cancer. He decided not to have surgery but instead received palliative care at a hospice in Tokyo.
During his illness, Umezu remained passionately devoted to his profession.
When a journalist visited him, he revealed his creative endeavor and said, “Humans cannot lose to machines. I am working on a story that is no less than a quantum computer.” He shared glimpses of a new concept he's developing, saying: “When I get better, I'll need to draw this story.”
Despite his deteriorating health, Umezu established the UMEZZ Foundation in August to manage his copyright and ensure his work would be preserved for future generations. He expressed excitement about future events and projects to celebrate his work.
Although he disliked pain and refused injections or intravenous fluids, relying solely on medication, his condition rapidly declined in October.
Yusuke Ueno, representative director of the UMEZZ Foundation who was with him in his final days, shared with Yomiuri Shimbun that Umezu requested his favorite energy drink and onigiri rice balls on the afternoon of October 28.
After taking a small sip, he smiled and said, “It's delicious,” before passing away peacefully.
“He has a very peaceful expression. This was so sudden but it was exactly what he wanted. He wanted to go as if he was falling asleep,” Ueno said.
At the funeral, Umezu's signature red and white striped shirt and red baseball cap were placed with him in the coffin. His memorial portrait captures him in “Gwashi!” his iconic. pose.
“Kazuo Umezu wants his work to reach people around the world and be loved for generations. He has a deep belief in the artistic value of his creations and we hope his spirit will continue to resonate with his fans,” said his art company UMEZZ. .
Shogakukan and Shogakukan-Shueisha Productions also expressed their respect. said, “Umezu-sensei left behind revolutionary works in many genres of horror, comedy and science fiction. He even transcended the media through venturing into film and art exhibitions. We extend our sincere thanks and condolences for his lifetime of achievements.”
Some outstanding works of Kazuo Umezu include Classroom drifting, Makoto-chan, >My name is Shingo, Orochi, Baptism, Left hand of God, Right hand of the devil and Cat eyes Boyamong others.
Source: Oricon, Yomiuri (1, 2)
