Akiko Hayashi, the illustrator behind Kiki’s Delivery Service, has passed away at age 81. She worked with author Eiko Kadono on the original children’s novel, which Studio Ghibli adapted into an animated movie in 1989.
Hayashi passed away due to pneumonia, an infection that inflames the air sacs of the lungs, per a report by Japanese news outlet The Mainichi (h/t Anime News Network). She passed away on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, and was officially made public today, Sunday, July 12, 2026. In addition to her work on the original Kiki’s Delivery Service, Akiko Hayashi worked on other children’s books, including Miki’s First Errand, Good Evening, Mr. Moon, and Kon and Aki.
Akiko Hayashi Helped Shape the Original Kiki’s Delivery Service Before Its Studio Ghibli Adaptation
The passing of Akiko Hayashi comes at an unfortunate time, as Kiki’s Delivery Service is on the verge of a massive revival, following the announcement of a sequel and its first-ever live-action adaptation.
Kiki and the New Magic, an official sequel by author Eiko Kadono, is finally receiving an English translation by Emily Balistrieri on Aug. 25, 2026. Balistrieri worked on the English translation of the first book, and Yuta Onoda is credited as the illustrator for the new release by Delacorte Press. The sequel book was initially released in Japan in 1993, making the long-awaited U.S. release 33 years in the making.
“In Kiki and the New Magic, Kiki’s courier service has made her a local celebrity, but fame brings unexpected pressures,” the official description for the book reads, via a press release. “As increasingly difficult deliveries test her confidence and friendships, Kiki must confront self-doubt and discover a new kind of magic.”
Additionally, an official live-action adaptation of Kiki’s Delivery Service is in the works at BBC Studios Kids & Family. The upcoming live-action TV series comes courtesy of a three-way partnership between BBC Studios, Kadokawa Corporation, and Wheel in Motion. Season 1 will reportedly consist of 10 episodes, each with a 30-minute runtime.
“We cannot imagine a more exciting tribute to the landmark 40th anniversary of this classic book series than this partnership,” said Takeo Kodera, director of international co-productions at Kadokawa. “The U.K. creative team has absorbed the spirit of Kiki through their close collaboration with Ms. Kadono, and the results will enchant family audiences everywhere.”
Author Eiko Kadono had this to say about the upcoming live-action adaptation of her work: “Kiki is about to set off on another adventure into a new world. I’m confident this will be a great show. I can’t wait to see the series come to life.”
Of course, the massive revival of Kiki’s Delivery Service wouldn’t have been possible if not for the rich legacy of the original children’s novel, illustrated by the great Akiko Hayashi. 41 years later, the original title continues to inspire a new generation of artists.
Rest in peace, Akiko Hayashi.
- Release Date
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July 29, 1989
- Runtime
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103 Minutes
