The world of manga mourns today as Akira Toriyama, the artist behind the globally renowned Dragon Ball franchise, passed away at the age of 68. Toriyama, a native of Nagoya, Japan, is best known for creating the iconic characters of Goku and his friends, who have enthralled audiences worldwide since 1984.
Dragon Ball, first serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump magazine, rose to meteoric fame, becoming a cornerstone of Japanese manga's international appeal.
The series' thrilling adventures, captivating characters, and action-packed battles have transcended language and culture, spawning a vast multimedia empire encompassing anime series, movies, video games, and merchandise.
Toriyama's studio, Bird Studio, confirmed his passing, attributing it to an acute subdural hematoma. In a poignant statement, the studio expressed their gratitude to fans for their unwavering support over the past four and a half decades, and their hope that Toriyama's legacy will continue to inspire and entertain for generations to come.
“Thanks to the support of so many people around the world, he has been able to continue his creative activities for over 45 years. We hope that Akira Toriyama’s unique world of creation continues to be loved by everyone for a long time to come,” the team said.
The news of Toriyama's death has sent shockwaves through the anime and manga communities, with fans and fellow artists alike expressing their profound sadness and celebrating his immense contribution to the industry.
The official X handle of Goku posted in typical Dragon Ball fashion, “Just received word from King Kai. Legendary manga creator and the father of Dragon Ball, Akira Toriyama, has passed through the Other World Check-In Station.”
Fans took to X and mourned his demise. “Rest in Peace Akira Toriyama, you’ll forever be missed,” a fan wrote.
"Akira Toriyama created something so special that it not only impacted and inflicted our childhood but it also inspired us through adulthood as well. His stories, his vision, his memory will always and forever be with all of us. Rest in Peace Akira Toriyama. And thank you for everything that you’ve done for the world,” added another.
“Wow. This man was a legend, True one of a kind talent that influenced so many lives. Shocked and sad, but his legacy will live on for thousands of years to come I’m sure,” a third social media user wrote.
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