Yuuji Yanase, the director behind Isekai wa Smartphone to Tomo ni. (In Another World With My Smartphone), died on August 22 due to myocardial infarction. He was 59. A funeral service was held by his close relatives.

Animation studio Maho Film announced the news on Wednesday, where Yanase had been a full-time employee since 2023. The production committee of the ongoing anime series, Saikyou Degarashi Ouji no Anyaku Teii Arasoi (The Insipid Prince's Furtive Grab for The Throne), also released a statement regarding his sudden death.

"We are still unable to accept this sudden news and are filled with deep sadness. Director Yanase dedicated tremendous effort to the production of this anime. We offer our most sincere gratitude and heartfelt condolences," the committee shared.

Yanase made his full-length series directorial debut in 2017 with Isekai wa Smartphone to Tomo ni.. He was a prominent figure at Maho Film, directing several of the studio's titles, including Uchi no Ko no Tame naraba, Ore wa Moshikashitara Maou mo Taoseru kamo Shirenai. (If It's for My Daughter, I'd Even Defeat a Demon Lord), Kami-tachi ni Hirowareta Otoko (By the Grace of the Gods), Leadale no Daichi nite (In the Land of Leadale), and Level 1 dakedo Unique Skill de Saikyou desu (My Unique Skill Makes Me OP Even at Level 1). He most recently directed Sekai Saikyou no Kouei: Meikyuukoku no Shinjin Tansakusha (The World's Strongest Rearguard) in Summer 2026.

Source: Sponichi Annex