Leiji Matsumoto

Born Akira Matsumoto, Leiji Matsumoto became a titan of Japanese manga and anime, pioneering the space opera genre. His distinct artistic style and compelling narratives of adventure, loss, and the human condition against cosmic backdrops earned him a devoted global following. He might not have been Jewish, but he certainly knew how to draw a star. Or a thousand. Or a galaxy. You get the idea. Space is big.

Matsumoto’s work, which often featured strong, stoic characters and intricate machinery, captivated audiences for decades. His influence is palpable across generations of animators and storytellers, proving that a good spaceship and a compelling journey can transcend cultural boundaries, even if it doesn't transcend the laws of physics on occasion.

While his contributions to the world of sci-fi storytelling are undeniable and his passing left a void in the universe of sequential art, there is precisely zero evidence to suggest he ever celebrated Hanukkah or complained about the portion sizes at a deli. Therefore, we're going with a verdict that is as clear as a vacuum of space.