Manga Creator Tarō Nami Passes Away at 79.

Sad news has reached the manga community as it mourns the passing of Tarō Nami, known by his real name Shigeyuki Chiba. The editorial team of Kodansha's Monthly Shōnen Magazine shared the heartbreaking news on Tuesday. Nami, who was 79, bid farewell to the world on December 30 at 6:30 p.m., surrounded by his family, including many grandchildren, in the comfort of his home.

Tetsuya Chiba, Nami's eldest brother and a fellow manga creator, confirmed the news on his blog and shared a poignant photo from Nami's funeral. The picture captures the somber moment as family and friends gather to remember the life and contributions of a talented creator.

Nami was the youngest among four brothers, all of whom pursued careers as manga creators. Tetsuya Chiba, the oldest, followed by Chiba Production President Kensaku Chiba, and the late Akio Chiba, formed a formidable family of artists.

Throughout his career, Nami left his mark on the manga world with notable works such as "Eleven," "4P Tanaka-kun," "Hakkeyoi," "Kazehikaru," "Dreams," and "Sora no Platanus." Beyond his own creations, Nami also played a crucial role as a story advisor to both Tetsuya Chiba and Akio Chiba, showcasing his influence and contribution to the broader manga community.

The loss of Tarō Nami is not only a personal tragedy for his family but also a poignant moment for manga enthusiasts who have enjoyed and appreciated his work over the years. As the manga community reflects on the impact of his creations, Nami's legacy will undoubtedly endure through the pages of the stories he brought to life. The bond shared by the Chiba brothers, marked by creativity and collaboration, leaves behind a rich legacy in the world of manga.