Yuji Ohno, the pioneering Japanese jazz musician passed away on May 4, 2026, at the age of 84. A private funeral was held to honor him.

Ohno’s jazzy, funky, swinging scores defined the Lupin III franchise for nearly five decades. News of his death, confirmed by his official website as due to natural causes, has sent ripples of sadness through the global anime and jazz communities.

Born in Atami, Shizuoka Prefecture, Ohno emerged as a key figure in Japan’s jazz and fusion scene as a pianist, and bandleader.

He took helm as the composer for the 1977 series Lupin III: Part II, bringing his distinctive blend of big-band, cool jazz, and groovy 1970s funk to anime.

It was then that he crafted the iconic opening “Theme from Lupin III ’78” — an explosive brass anthem that perfectly encapsulates the show’s stylish heists and adventurous spirit.

He went on to score the beloved 1979 feature film Lupin III: The Castle of Cagliostro, directed by a young Hayao Miyazaki, Space Adventure Cobra, as well as countless subsequent TV specials, and films.

Ohno’s influence left an indelible mark on anime and pop culture as he helped popularize jazz-funk fusion in Japan. Much like Cowboy Bebop and FLCL that came after, his music wasn’t just background; it was the beating heart of the franchise.

Fans and industry veterans have flooded social media with tributes, remembering how Ohno’s vibrant sound helped elevate anime soundtracks as an art form in their own right.

Lupin III is loosely based around French novelist Maurice Leblanc’s early 20th century stories. It is set in a fantastical world of full of master thieves and criminal gangs, combining the stories of Arsène Lupin, espionage, and olden Japanese samurai films.

Monkey Punch, the creator of Lupin III, also passed away in 2019.

The anime world has lost a true legend whose grooves will continue to play for generations of Lupin fans. Rest in peace, Yuji Ohno-sensei.