Hitoshi Yoshioka was a Japanese author and original creator known for several novel series that were adapted into anime productions, most notably The Irresponsible Captain Tylor. Born on July 16, 1960, Yoshioka created the original story for anime works that gained a following in the 1990s and beyond.

Yoshioka's most recognized work is the novel series Uchū Ichi no Musekinin Otoko (The Most Irresponsible Man in Space). This series served as the basis for the television anime The Irresponsible Captain Tylor, which premiered in 1993, and a ten-episode original video anime series that was released between 1994 and 1996. Decades later, his novels inspired a spinoff television anime titled The Irresponsible Galaxy Tylor, which aired in 2017.

Beyond the Tylor franchise, Yoshioka was the original creator of the novel series Suikoden Demon Century and Idol Defense Force Hummingbird, both of which were adapted into original video anime productions. His literary works also saw adaptations outside of animation, with stage plays and musical performances produced by the Kaoru Asakura Theater Company.

Yoshioka passed away on January 13, 2023, at the age of 62. News of his death was announced by the Kaoru Asakura Theater Company the following February.