It's been reported that actor Watabiki Katsuhiko passed away on December 30 at 12:54 pm due to pancreatic cancer. He was 75 years old. 

According to an announcement by his agency, Watabiki received a surgery in August of 2018 to remove cysts in his pancreas. At that time, they discovered progressive cancer cells. In December of 2019, he learned that the cancer had spread to his lungs, and started receiving chemotherapy last February. 

Although Watabiki continued treatment while enduring severe side effects, the cancer did not go into remission. As such, he stopped receiving active treatment in November. Since then, he had been resting peacefully at home free from the side effects. However, his condition took a turn for the worse on Christmas morning and was hospitalized. He took his last breath while calmly sleeping. 

As stated in the will of the deceased, Watabiki's funeral was held with relatives only. The chief mourner was his wife, actress Kashiyama Fumie (79). 

Our deepest condolences go out to his loved ones during this difficult time.