Advanced Television

NHK wins international appraisal for Last Days

November 26, 2025

By Chris Forrester

The already award-winning documentary Ryuichi Sakamoto: Last Days has been further recognised this time with an International Emmy Award.

Produced by Japanese public broadcaster NHK, the documentary film reported on the death of acclaimed musician Ryuichi Sakamoto in March 2023. As a member of the Yellow Magic Orchestra, Sakamoto catapulted into international fame with his innovations in electro music. The Oscar-winning composer was also known for his pursuit of a wide range of styles. In his final years after receiving a terminal diagnosis, Sakamoto filled his diary with honest – and moving – directness. The NHK documentary follows how one of the greatest musicians of the era grappled with death and lived out his final days.

NHK’s Kenichi Matsumiya, the Executive Producer, commented: “Even when life begins to fade, can the human spirit still shine? We kept asking ourselves this question throughout the creation of this programme, carrying the weight of inner conflict throughout its making. I am deeply honored that it has been recognised worldwide. Yet with that honour comes an even greater sense of responsibility. How can art and culture be portrayed in this modern age, and what role should television documentaries play in society? These are questions I will continue to explore with greater depth.”

Ryuichi Sakamoto: Last Days has also been honored with the Rose d’Or Award in the Arts category at the 63rd Rose d’Or Awards in 2024. Furthermore, at the 77th Prix Italia Awards held in October 2025, the film received both the Prix Italia for Best TV Performing Arts and the event’s highest distinction – the Special Prize in Honour of the President of the Italian Republic, awarded to the most outstanding program across all categories.

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