Fumi Kitahara, Renowned Animation Publicist, Dies at 56

Kitahara, a pivotal figure in animation publicity for over three decades, passed away from complications of a rare blood cancer.

Fumi Kitahara, a respected publicist who championed award-winning animated films, passed away on February 24, 2025, at age 56 due to complications from a rare blood cancer.
Over her 30-year career, she led publicity campaigns for major studios including Disney, DreamWorks, Aardman, Laika, and Netflix, contributing to iconic films like 'Shrek,' 'How to Train Your Dragon,' and 'Coraline.'
Kitahara founded her boutique firm, PR Kitchen, after leaving DreamWorks in 2007, continuing to shape the success of animated features and shorts, including Guillermo del Toro's Oscar-winning 'Pinocchio.'
She served as PR Chair for Women in Animation for over a decade, leaving a lasting impact on the industry and advocating for women in animation.
Survived by her husband Simon Otto, son Max, and other family members, Kitahara's legacy is being honored with a scholarship fund established by Women in Animation.