Osamu Tezuka

Osamu Tezuka (手塚 治虫, Tezuka Osamu, November 3, 1928 – February 9, 1989) was a Japanese cartoonist, manga artist, animator, producer and medical doctor, although he never practiced medicine. Born in Osaka Prefecture, he is best known as the creator of Astro Boy, Kimba the White Lion and Black Jack. He is often credited as the "Godfather of Anime", and is often considered the Japanese equivalent to Walt Disney, who served as a major inspiration during his formative years. His prolific output, pioneering techniques, and innovative redefinitions of genres earned him such titles as "the father of manga", "the god of comics" and "kamisama of manga". His grave is located in Tokyo's Souzen-ji Temple Cemetery.

Notable works

 * Metropolis, 1949
 * Jungle Taitei (Jungle Emperor), 1950–54.
 * Tetsuwan ATOM (Astro Boy), 1952–68.
 * Ribon no Kishi (Princess Knight), 1953–56.
 * Hi no Tori (Phoenix), 1956–89.
 * Twin Knight, 1958.
 * Kureopatora (Cleopatra: Queen of Sex), 1970.
 * Black Jack, 1973–83.