The anime industry mourns the loss of Hiroki Ikeshita, a talented animator and director who passed away on November 6, 2024, at the age of 46. The news of his untimely death was announced on December 5, 2024, by the official website of the Shangri-La Frontier anime production committee.
Career Highlights
池下博紀さんが11月6日にご逝去されました
— 株式会社C2C (@C2C_news) December 5, 2024
池下さんは、C2Cにとって本当に大切な人でした
ずっと一緒に歩んでいくと思っていました
悲しくて、つらく、悔しいです
池下さん、いままで一緒に頑張ってくれて、
ありがとうございました
一生忘れません
どうか安らかにご永眠されますようお祈りいたします pic.twitter.com/GqqkAtbjuC
Ikeshita was best known for his recent work as the assistant director on both seasons of the popular anime series Shangri-La Frontier.
His contributions to the show were significant, and he played a crucial role in shaping its visual style and narrative flow. Throughout his career, Ikeshita worked on numerous high-profile anime projects, showcasing his versatility and skill as an animator and director:
- Director: Shachibato! President, It’s Time for Battle!
- Assistant Director: Handyman Saitō in Another World, Hitori Bocchi no Marumaru Seikatsu
- Animator: Pokémon, Persona 3 movies, Sonic X, Monster Rancher, Yo-kai Watch, Harukana Receive, Aquarion Logos, Bungo Stray Dogs, Fairy Tail, and One Piece Special – Adventure of Nebulandia
Ikeshita’s passing has left a void in the anime industry, with colleagues and fans alike expressing their condolences and appreciation for his work.
The Shangri-La Frontier Production Committee released a statement acknowledging his significant contributions to the series and expressing their deep sadness at his loss.
While the cause of Ikeshita’s death has not been disclosed, his legacy in the anime industry is undeniable. His work on Shangri-La Frontier, which continues to air its second season, stands as a testament to his talent and dedication.
Fans of the series and the anime community at large will undoubtedly remember Ikeshita for his contributions to bringing captivating stories and characters to life on screen.
As the anime industry reflects on the loss of this talented creator, Hiroki Ikeshita’s work will continue to inspire and entertain audiences, ensuring that his creative spirit lives on through the art he helped create.
