Renowned Manga Creator Amazume Announces Hiatus for Cancer Treatment
The manga world received a somber announcement on August 6 as popular creator Ryuta Amazume revealed a cancer diagnosis. Amidst this challenging news, Amazume has confirmed plans to undergo treatment, signaling a temporary but necessary hiatus from commercial manga serialization. The artist expressed a clear goal: to achieve a complete recovery and return to their work.
This news arrives as a significant moment for fans and the industry, emphasizing the importance of health above all else. Amazume's dedication to their craft is well-known, and the decision to step back highlights the seriousness of the situation while also conveying hope for a full recuperation.
A Pause from Ongoing Serialization
The announcement directly impacts Amazume's future projects and currently running series. While no specific timelines for return have been provided, the focus remains firmly on treatment and recovery. This hiatus means that new chapters of any commercial manga series by Amazume will be on hold for the foreseeable future. The community is undoubtedly rallying behind the creator, sending waves of support and well wishes during this difficult period. It is a time for patience and understanding as Amazume prioritizes their health journey.
Recent Series Conclusions Prior to Hiatus
Interestingly, several of Amazume's notable works have recently concluded their serialization, adding a coincidental timing to this announcement. The Sefure manga, for instance, just wrapped up its run on July 27. Launched in Shōnengahōsha's Young King magazine in March 2019, Sefure has resonated with many readers. Its 12th and final compiled book volume is scheduled to be shipped by Shōnengahōsha on September 14, providing fans with the complete collection of this recent series.
Another series, Omae no Kao wo Tashikametai (Let Me See That Look on Your Face), also concluded its run on April 23. This manga, which began its serialization on Kodansha's YanMaga Web website in September 2025, saw its second and final volume shipped to stores on June 19. Similarly, Jofū ended its serialization in March 2025. After a successful one-shot version in Hakusensha's Young Animal magazine in March 2021, the full series launched in December 2021, concluding with its seventh and final compiled book volume in May 2025.
The simultaneous wrapping up of these significant titles allows Amazume to fully concentrate on their health without the immediate pressure of ongoing deadlines, a small silver lining in an otherwise challenging situation.
The Enduring Legacy of Nana & Kaoru
Perhaps one of Amazume's most recognized and beloved works is the Nana & Kaoru (Nana to Kaoru) manga. This iconic series began its journey in Hakusensha's Young Animal Arashi magazine in 2008 before transitioning to the main Young Animal magazine in 2009. It captivated audiences for many years, finally concluding its main run in August 2016. The series' popularity led to its licensing by FAKKU, with Denpa commencing distribution of a convenient 3-in-1 omnibus edition starting in October 2022, allowing new and old fans to experience the story.
Nana to Kaoru was so impactful that it spawned various adaptations, including an original video anime (OVA) project that brought its characters to life in animated form. Additionally, the series inspired two live-action films, further cementing its cultural footprint. Amazume also expanded the universe with the spinoff manga series Nana to Kaoru: Black Label, which ran until 2014, offering a different perspective within the established world.
Another notable spinoff, Nana to Kaoru: Kōkōsei no SM Gokko (High Schoolers' S&M Play), launched in the inaugural issue of Hakusensha's Harem magazine in November 2018. This series, which delved into Nana and Kaoru's third year of high school, concluded in October 2021, with its fifth and final volume shipping in December 2021. The expansive Nana & Kaoru franchise stands as a testament to Amazume's creative vision and lasting appeal.
Wishing Amazume a Swift Recovery
As Ryuta Amazume embarks on this personal health battle, the entire manga community stands in solidarity, sending wishes for strength, successful treatment, and a complete, speedy recovery. The hiatus is a temporary pause, and fans eagerly await the day Amazume can return to their passion, refreshed and healthy, to continue creating the captivating stories we have all come to love. The source of this important announcement comes directly from Ryuta Amazume's X/Twitter account, ensuring fans received the news directly from the creator.
