Kazuki Motoyama, the Japanese manga artist who created Kodansha’s Super Mario comics, has died at the age of 69.
His sister, Risa Motoyama, confirmed the news on Instagram, thanking fans for their support and offering no details on the cause of death.
Motoyama’s Super Mario manga ran from 1988 to 1998 in Comic BomBom, covering popular games such as Super Mario Bros. 3 and Super Mario 64.
He was widely admired for his playful humor, creative storytelling, and occasional self-referential jokes, which brought the Mushroom Kingdom vividly to life for readers.
READ ALSO: Takaichi’s Win Lifts Japanese Markets, Yen Falls to Record Low
Although the exact date of his passing has not been publicly disclosed, reports suggest he died in October 2025.
Tributes from fans and fellow artists have highlighted his lasting impact on both manga and Nintendo fandom.
Through his distinctive vision of the Super Mario world, Kazuki Motoyama leaves behind a legacy that continues to entertain and inspire audiences around the globe.