Akira Toriyama, the visionary creator of Dragon Ball, one of Japan’s most influential and best-selling manga series, has passed away at the age of 68. The news comes after Toriyama suffered an acute subdural hematoma, a form of bleeding near the brain, as announced by his studio on Friday.
Dragon Ball, which debuted in 1984, has achieved global acclaim and popularity, captivating fans worldwide with its compelling narrative and iconic characters. The series has transcended the realm of manga, spawning animated cartoons and films.
Fans around the world are mourning the loss of Toriyama, expressing gratitude for creating characters that have left an indelible mark on their childhoods. The Dragon Ball comic follows the adventures of Son Goku as he embarks on a quest to collect magical dragon balls, defending Earth against alien humanoids known as Saiyans.
Toriyama’s passing leaves some of his works incomplete, and he was laid to rest on March 1, with only close family and a select few friends in attendance.
The Dragon Ball website released a statement, saying, “He would have many more things to achieve. However, he has left many manga titles and works of art to this world. We hope that Akira Toriyama’s unique world of creation continues to be loved by everyone for a long time to come.”
Social media platforms have been flooded with tributes from fans, acknowledging Toriyama’s impact on their lives. “Thank you for creating a manga that represents my youth. Rest in peace, thank you for your hard work,” expressed one user on X, garnering widespread support.
Born in Nagoya, Japan, in 1955, Toriyama gained recognition in the early 1980s with his work Dr. Slump. However, Dragon Ball became his magnum opus, resonating with fans worldwide. The protagonist, Son Goku, mirrored the struggles and growth of fans as they navigated their own journeys from self-doubt to adulthood.
Dragon Ball’s global influence extended beyond manga, inspiring fan fiction, cosplayers, and a vast array of merchandise. In a 2013 interview, Toriyama expressed his surprise at the series’ worldwide success, describing it as a “miracle.”
As fans continue to mourn the loss of a creative genius, Toriyama’s legacy lives on through his timeless creations, leaving an everlasting impact on the world of manga and pop culture.
