Osamu Tezuka Biography: Life, Career, Success & Wealth

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FactDescription
Full NameOsamu Tezuka
Date of BirthNovember 3, 1928
Place of BirthToyonaka, Osaka, Japan
Date of DeathFebruary 9, 1989
OccupationManga artist, animator, producer, medical doctor
Notable WorksAstro Boy, Black Jack, Kimba the White Lion, Phoenix
Contribution to MangaConsidered the “father of manga” for his contributions to the medium and development of its modern style
Contribution to AnimeConsidered the “father of anime” for his pioneering work in creating animated series and films in Japan
Medical CareerGraduated from Osaka University’s School of Medicine and practiced as a physician while also working on his manga and animation projects
AwardsReceived numerous awards for his contributions to manga and anime, including the Shogakukan Manga Award, the Japan Cartoonists Association Award, and the Bungeishunjū Manga Award
LegacyInfluenced generations of manga artists and animators in Japan and around the world, and his works continue to be popular and influential today

Osamu Tezuka, known as the “God of Manga,” was a Japanese manga artist, animator, and producer who revolutionized the world of Japanese comics and animation. Born on November 3, 1928, in Toyonaka, Osaka, Japan, Tezuka was the eldest of three children.

Tezuka’s love for drawing and storytelling began at a young age. He was a voracious reader, devouring everything from children’s books to manga. Tezuka’s passion for storytelling led him to pursue a degree in medicine at Osaka University, but he ultimately dropped out to pursue his dream of becoming a manga artist.

In 1947, Tezuka’s first published work, “New Treasure Island,” was released, and it was an instant success. The manga industry in Japan was still in its infancy at the time, and Tezuka’s work revolutionized the medium with its cinematic storytelling and dynamic visuals. His work was quickly recognized, and he became known as the “God of Manga.”

Tezuka’s success as a manga artist paved the way for his career in animation. He founded his own animation studio, Mushi Production, in 1961 and produced several successful television series, including “Astro Boy,” “Kimba the White Lion,” and “Princess Knight.”

Tezuka’s impact on the manga and animation industries cannot be overstated. His work inspired countless artists and animators and continues to be celebrated to this day. At the time of his death on February 9, 1989, Tezuka had created more than 700 manga series and produced more than 50 animated television shows and movies.

As for his wealth, Tezuka’s net worth at the time of his death was estimated to be around $10 million. However, his true legacy lies in the impact he had on the world of manga and animation, inspiring generations of artists and fans alike.

Here is a timeline of the major events in Osamu Tezuka’s life:

  • 1928: Osamu Tezuka is born on November 3 in Toyonaka, Osaka, Japan.
  • 1947: Tezuka’s first manga work, “New Treasure Island,” is published and becomes an instant success.
  • 1949: Tezuka graduates from Osaka University’s School of Medicine but ultimately decides to pursue a career in manga.
  • 1950: Tezuka publishes “Astro Boy,” one of his most iconic works.
  • 1961: Tezuka founds his own animation studio, Mushi Production, and produces several successful animated television series, including “Astro Boy,” “Kimba the White Lion,” and “Princess Knight.”
  • 1971: Tezuka’s manga “Buddha” is published, a departure from his usual science fiction and fantasy works.
  • 1980: Tezuka creates “Phoenix,” an ambitious manga series that explores themes of reincarnation and immortality.
  • 1985: Tezuka is awarded the Shogakukan Manga Award for his manga “Adolf.”
  • 1989: Tezuka passes away on February 9 at the age of 60 due to stomach cancer.
  • 2003: The Tezuka Osamu Cultural Prize is established to honor the late artist and recognize excellence in manga and animation.

Here are five interesting facts about Osamu Tezuka and five of his quotes:

Facts:

  1. Tezuka was inspired by Walt Disney and was known for incorporating elements of Disney’s animation style into his work.
  2. He was a trained physician and his medical knowledge influenced the science fiction elements in his manga works.
  3. Tezuka was a prolific creator, producing over 700 manga series and more than 50 animated television shows and movies throughout his career.
  4. His manga series “Black Jack” is still popular today and has been adapted into various forms of media, including an anime series, live-action films, and video games.
  5. Tezuka was also a philosopher and incorporated his own philosophical beliefs into his manga, such as his views on love, life, and humanity.

Quotes:

  1. “In order to grow and have a sense of self-worth, you must read books and educate yourself.”
  2. “Manga is an interesting way to express the world of emotions and imagination.”
  3. “I want to entertain people with my art. If my art brings joy to someone, then that’s what makes me happy.”
  4. “I have always believed that the essence of manga lies in its uniqueness. There is no need to imitate others or follow the crowd.”
  5. “Love and the pursuit of happiness are two things everyone can relate to.”

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