Animator Kenichiro Katsura Dies at 59; Character Designer on Macross 7 and SYNDUALITY Noir
Animator and character designer Kenichiro Katsura died on September 30, 2026, at age 59 while undergoing medical treatment for illness, according to his wife, Akiko Miyaji, who announced his death on Twitter. News of his passing was carried by the bereaved family on October 5. The funeral was held with only close relatives in attendance. Katsura handled character design on Macross 7, Knight's & Magic, and SYNDUALITY Noir, and worked across anime and game titles over many years, including the VIPER series, ToHeart2, Comic Party Revolution, the OVA of Utawarerumono, and That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime. On SYNDUALITY Noir and Knight's & Magic he worked as both character designer and chief animation director. Both production committees issued statements on October 5, saying they received tremendous dedication from Katsura and expressing condolences to his family and staff.