Tatsuo Satou, Director of Kidou Senkan Nadesico and Helck, Dies at 61

Tatsuo Satou, a director and screenwriter known for his work on anime such as Kidou Senkan Nadesico and Madan no Ou to Vanadis, died on April 24 from liver failure. He was 61 years old.

Animation studio Nagomi confirmed the news and noted that Satou had been receiving medical treatment for some time. His family held a private funeral, and the studio plans to organize a memorial ceremony at a later date.

Career and Notable Works

Born in Kanagawa Prefecture in July 1964, Satou graduated from Waseda University and worked as an animator and assistant director at studio Ajia-do. His debut as a series director came in 1995 with Tobe! Isami, and the following year he gained prominence with Kidou Senkan Nadesico.

The sequel film to Nadesico won the Seiun Award in the Media division in 1999, and Satou received that award again for Mouretsu Pirates in 2013. His directing credits also include Shigofumi, Uchuu no Stellvia, Tokyo Tribe 2, Rinne no Lagrange and Helck.

Originally published on Anitsu by Sebastián Mamani. Text reviewed and cross-checked for DonOtaku on November 5, 2026; the original date is preserved.