Kuwata was merely 13 when he made his manga debut 1948 with the book "Kaiki Seidan".
In 1957 he had his breakthrough with Maboroshi Tantei, which was adapted into a popular tv show. His next big hit followed in 1963 with 8 Man. However, the series came to an abrupt end when Kuwata, struggling with depression, was arrested for possessing a hand gun in 1965 and his assistants had to finish the final instalments by themselves. (They were not well received).
After this episode, Kuwata would continue creating action and sci-fi manga of varying popularity all the while still struggling with depression and alcoholism.
In 1977 he had an epiphany and converted to Buddhism, a move which reflects in his works since then.
(Source: MU)
