Puerto Rico – The global anime community is paying tribute to Tatsuya Nagamine, the acclaimed director behind major titles such as One Piece Film Z, Dragon Ball Super: Broly, and Heartcatch Precure!, following news of his death at age 53. Details shared publicly by colleagues indicate that Nagamine passed away earlier this summer, with a memorial service held on November 13 in Japan.
Scriptwriter Ryota Yamaguchi, known for his work on Dokidoki Precure and Digimon Beatbreak, was among those who shared condolences online, noting his attendance at the memorial. Animator Shota, who worked on Witchy Precure!! ~MIRAI DAYS~, also confirmed Nagamine’s passing, prompting an outpouring of grief from fans and industry professionals.
Nagamine, born October 6, 1971, in Hino City, Tokyo, joined Toei Animation in 1995. He quickly established himself as a rising talent, serving as an assistant episode director for Ojamajo Doremi’s first season in 1999. By 29, he had made his official debut as an episode director, a milestone that marked the beginning of a long and versatile career.
His first major directorial project was Interlude, a 2004 OVA, but it was his later work that cemented his status as a leading force in modern anime. From Beet the Vandel Master to Eiga Yes! Precure 5 GoGo!, One Piece: Heart of Gold, and the blockbuster success Dragon Ball Super: Broly, Nagamine played a central role in shaping several beloved franchises.
In recent years, he contributed as a unit director for Toei’s 25th anniversary Ojamajo Doremi special videos, continuing his longstanding connection to the studio that launched his career.
Industry observers say Nagamine’s death represents a significant loss at a time when Japanese animation continues its global expansion. His work, known for dynamic action, emotional clarity, and genre-defining visual style, leaves an enduring legacy across generations of fans.
As tributes continue to pour in, colleagues are remembering not only his technical mastery but also his collaborative spirit—a hallmark of his nearly 30 years in animation.
