The world of manga mourns the loss of one of its most iconic figures, Akira Toriyama, the creator of the legendary “Dragon Ball” series.
He passed away on March 1 at the age of 68 due to an acute subdural hematoma, leaving a void in the hearts of fans and a lasting legacy in the industry.
Toriyama’s journey began when he broke into the manga scene at 23. His talent blossomed with the serialization of “Dr. Slump” in 1980, but it was the 1984 launch of “Dragon Ball” that catapulted him to international fame. The series, inspired by the Chinese classic “Journey to the West,” followed the adventures of Son Goku in his quest for the magical Dragon Balls.
“Dragon Ball” quickly became a cornerstone of manga, selling over 260 million copies globally and inspiring a generation of creators. Its influence is evident in popular series like “One Piece,” “Bleach,” and “Naruto.” Beyond manga, his creative genius extended to video games, contributing to the “Dragon Quest” and “Chrono Trigger” franchises.
In the early hours of Friday, the official X account of Dragon Ball made the announcement of his passing. The statement was shared by Bird Studio and Capsule Corporation Tokyo, the entities that hold the anime and gaming rights of the vast franchise.
They also made the same announcement on their official website, expressing deep regret for his unfinished works and gratitude for his 45-year career.
As we reflect on Toriyama’s contributions, we remember not just the stories he told but the way he shaped an entire medium. His characters and worlds will continue to inspire and entertain, ensuring his creations endure for generations to come.
