Shihei Lin, the esteemed editor of Spy x Family and Chainsaw Man in Weekly Shonen Jump magazine, has been hospitalized this week following a brain hemorrhage.
On November 7, 2023, Lin informed that he had been admitted to the hospital since November 5th due to the incident. In a translated post shared via X, Lin stated, "[Business Message]: I have been in the hospital since Sunday the 5th due to a sudden illness. It appears that a blood vessel located deep behind my right eye ruptured unexpectedly. (I am informed that it is an idiopathic condition of unknown origin). Riding in an ambulance was a first-time experience for me. I deeply apologize for any delayed responses to emails and other forms of communication. (I notified those in urgent need, but I apologize to anyone I could not reach). Thanks to the excellently thorough initial treatment provided by medical professionals, there appear to be no significant aftereffects, and my health is gradually improving with the assistance of medication and IV therapy."
Despite appearing to be back in business mode, Lin expressed his intention to take things slow for the time being. He acknowledged the role of his busy schedule and stress in his current situation and vowed to take control of his circumstances to create more breathing room. Lin plans to seek support from those close to him and will reach out to individuals whose meetings and meals he had to reschedule to arrange new dates next week. His focus is on his recovery, and he will be moving forward cautiously. Lin extends his gratitude for understanding during this time.
Lin is renowned as one of Japan's most prolific manga editors. Our previous coverage of Lin highlighted his impressive portfolio, which includes overseeing more than 100 titles such as Hell's Paradise: Jigokuraku by Yuji Kaku and Blue Exorcist by Kazue Kato. Both of these series had successful anime adaptations, and the highly anticipated Blue Exorcist: Shimane Illuminati Arc is scheduled to premiere in January 2024. Lin also serves as the supervisor for ongoing Shonen Jump bestsellers Spy x Family, Dandandan, and Chainsaw Man by Tatsuki Fujimoto. Below, we provide a glimpse into his approach to his work.
"It resembles a villain," remarked Lin to Fujimoto, who retorted, "He can also take on a human form and become impressive." Collaborating with Fujimoto, Lin incorporated his ideas and suggestions, resulting in the creation of the widely acclaimed Chainsaw Man. The editor shared a similar account about another highly promising title from Jump, Dandandan. The initial concept by creator Yukinobu Tatsu was to "create a car chase similar to Mad Max and blend it with the concept of Speed." Speculation has arisen that a Dandandan anime may be announced soon, particularly with the approach of Jump Festa, where significant revelations often occur.
Though the cause of Lin's hospitalization remains unknown, it potentially sheds light on the demanding conditions within the manga industry. Earlier this year, fans of My Hero Academia appealed to Horikoshi Kohei to prioritize his health. Eiichiro Oda, the creator of One Piece, previously disclosed that he worked from his hospital bed, and Aka Akasaka, the author of Oshi no Ko, recently returned from a two-month hiatus due to health complications.
Source: Shihei Lin official X (formerly Twitter)
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z netizen, I am deeply saddened by the sudden hospitalization of Shihei Lin, the renowned manga editor for hit series Spy x Family and Chainsaw Man. His unexpected brain hemorrhage has shocked fans and highlights the demanding conditions within the manga industry. It is disheartening to see talented individuals like Lin suffer from health issues potentially caused by their hectic schedules and stress.
Lin's transparency about his condition and his commitment to taking control of his circumstances are commendable. His decision to prioritize his health and seek support from those close to him serves as an important reminder for all of us to prioritize self-care and maintain a healthy work-life balance. The manga industry is known for its intense pressure and tight deadlines, and it is crucial for editors like Lin to set boundaries and prioritize their well-being.