Yuuji Yanase, the director known for Isekai wa Smartphone to Tomo ni. and several other anime series, passed away on August 22 due to myocardial infarction. He was 59. A funeral service was held by his close relatives.
Announcement
Animation studio Maho Film, where Yanase had been a full-time employee since 2023, announced the news on Wednesday. The production committee of the ongoing anime series Saikyou Degarashi Ouji no Anyaku Teii Arasoi also released a statement regarding his sudden death.
“We are still unable to accept this sudden news and are filled with deep sadness. Director Yanase dedicated tremendous effort to the production of this anime. We offer our most sincere gratitude and heartfelt condolences,” the committee shared.
Career
Yanase made his directorial debut in 2017 with Isekai wa Smartphone to Tomo ni.. He was a prominent figure at Maho Film, directing several of the studio’s titles, including Uchi no Ko no Tame naraba, Ore wa Moshikashitara Maou mo Taoseru kamo Shirenai., Kami-tachi ni Hirowareta Otoko, Leadale no Daichi nite, and Level 1 dakedo Unique Skill de Saikyou desu. He most recently directed Sekai Saikyou no Kouei: Meikyuukoku no Shinjin Tansakusha in Summer 2026.
Source: Sponichi Annex
