Yuji Nunokawa

Much-admired animation producer and founder of Japan’s Studio Pierrot who began career as animator on shows such as Space Boy Soran and Robotan and became character designer at Tatsunoko’s Time Bokan! and director on Yatterman and Gatchamann II. He became president of Studio Pierrot after the death of Tatsuo Yoshida in 1978 and produced many anime hits including Urusei Yatsura, Creamy Mami, Yu Yu Hakusho, Naruto, Tokyo Mew Mew and Bleach as well as several Bleach and Naruto movies. Died Dec. 25, age 75.