Renowned manga artist Akira Toriyama passed away on March 1 at the age of 68, succumbing to an acute subdural hematoma, as published on his official website. The news has left a profound impact on the anime and manga community worldwide. Toriyama’s family has opted for a private funeral and has respectfully declined gifts, visits, interviews, and offerings during this period of mourning.
Toriyama’s groundbreaking work began with the his first serialized manga “Dr. Slump“ in 1980, which not only spawned two television anime adaptations but also inspired a string of successful films. However, it was his magnum opus, “Dragon Ball,” which ran from 1984 to 1995, that cemented his status as a true visionary. The “Dragon Ball” series continues to captivate audiences with its sequels, spin-offs, and anime adaptations, propelling Toriyama’s creations into the realm of global pop culture. “Dragon Ball” remains an enduring symbol cherished by anime fans worldwide.
Toriyama’s influence extended beyond the realm of manga and anime, and into the world of video games. He served as a character designer for acclaimed game titles such as “Dragon Quest,” “Chrono Trigger,” and “Blue Dragon“.
In his final years, Toriyama remained actively involved in shaping the anime landscape. His collaboration with the production team of the recently announced “Dragon Ball Daima,” the latest installment in the “Dragon Ball” series, showcased his unwavering creativity. Credited for the series’ compelling storyline and character designs, Toriyama’s impact on the medium continues to resonate with the franchise.
Moreover, Toriyama’s “Sand Land” manga received a recent surge in popularity with the release of an anime film adaptation in August 2022. A forthcoming anime series, slated for a worldwide debut on March 20, along with an accompanying game launching on April 26, stand as a testament to Toriyama’s enduring legacy and influence across multiple mediums within the anime industry.
As we bid farewell to a true titan of the industry, Akira Toriyama’s creative genius will forever inspire generations to come, ensuring his legacy remains immortalized in the hearts of fans worldwide.
Rest In Peace, Akira Toriyama