Mourning in Manga: Beloved Author Rakko Passes Away at 52

Once again, we have to deliver the kind of news that ruins your week. The manga industry has just lost another massive talent far too soon. The beloved author known as Rakko, famous for making us cry with his heartfelt stories and impeccable art, passed away this past March 27th at the age of 52 due to heart failure.

A sudden departure and a work in limbo

His family and publisher dropped the bombshell this Friday. It turns out the mangaka had already been hospitalized for a few days earlier this month, but his health suddenly took a turn for the worse and his heart simply gave out. His loved ones requested the usual, yet always necessary, privacy to get through this difficult time, while thanking all the fans who faithfully supported him throughout his career.

The extra blow for followers is that Rakko was working on a brand-new project. Since the work was still in its early stages, the publisher announced they will take a few weeks to decide what will happen with that unfinished story. Industry colleagues and thousands of readers have already filled social media with messages, remembering how the author's kindness was always reflected in his hard work.

About Rakko's legacy

If you've been into manga for years, you surely recognize his magnum opus. Rakko started grinding in the late 90s and delivered a true gem about personal growth and friendship that lasted over 15 years in publication, collecting more than 30 volumes. His characters felt so real and human that reading him was like looking into a mirror of your own problems, helping many people get through emotional ruts.

Knowing how brutally demanding a mangaka's life is in the industry, which work left a permanent mark on you and helped you during a difficult time?