Shimura Ken-san died of pneumonia caused by COVID-19 on 29 Mar, at 70.
Shimura-san was admitted to hospital on 17 Mar. His agency announced on 25 Mar that he contracted COVID-19.
Aiba Masaki's Comment on Shimura Ken-san's death
I cannot accept that this is real...
I am wordless...
There are countless things that Shimura-san has taught me.
I have nothing but gratitude to him.
The time I spent with Shimura-san is my treasure.
Just, I hope that we could have spent more time together...
To me who knew nothing about the work, he gave me a push, and embraced me with kindness...
The kind smiling face of Shimura-san remains in my mind.
I know that Shimura-san would not be able to take a calm rest if he sees me like this.
However, this is too agonising...
I shall try my best to move on so that Shimura-san could take a tranquil rest.
I pray from the bottom of my heart that his soul may rest in peace.
Thank you very much for your care all these years.
Source:
https://www.oricon.co.jp/news/2158717/full/ My deepest condolences and gratitude to your great work, Shimura-san.