Katsuhiro Otomo is a groundbreaking Japanese manga artist, screenwriter, and film director, internationally renowned for creating Akira, one of the most influential manga and anime works of all time. Originally from Miyagi Prefecture, Otomo debuted in 1973 and quickly gained recognition for his detailed artwork and interest in science fiction and dystopian themes. He has received numerous awards for his contributions to manga and animation, including being inducted into the Eisner Hall of Fame in 2012 and receiving Japan’s Medal of Honor with Purple Ribbon in 2013.