Tomokazu Sakamoto, former chairman of NHK, died Wednesday of liver failure, NHK said Monday. He was 86.

Sakamoto served in a number of government and other public posts, including as a member of the National Public Safety Commission, chairman of the former National Language Council of the Cultural Affairs Agency and chairman of the Yokozuna Deliberation Council.

Born in Tokyo and a graduate of Waseda University, he joined NHK in 1939 and was promoted to chief of its entertainment bureau, senior director and vice chairman before assuming the top post in 1976 and serving until 1982.

He was the first career NHK staff member to become chairman and is known for producing Japan's first television drama and drama series.

In 1990, he received the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Sacred Treasure, one of the highest decorations awarded regularly.