In an interview for NHK, Miyazaki was asked about his thoughts on death and the afterlife. Miyazaki shocked the room with his response, this is what he said;

“I may have pleased many a people with my artwork and I am grateful to have gifted my work to the world, it may come as a surprise you but outside of my work I wouldn’t say I’m a very caring person, in fact, I’m quite evil. I think the reason I’ve stayed alive this long is because my soul knows what’s next and doesn’t want to let go. When I die I’m going to hell, there’s no debate”.

Hayao Miyazaki’s final film is set to be released in the coming weeks, the film will have no marketing coming up to its release, by request of Miyazaki.