On Friday, it was announced that Akira Toriyama, the influential creator behind the beloved Dragon Ball manga and anime franchise, had passed away at the age of 68. The official Dragon Ball website reported that Toriyama’s death was attributed to a blood clot in the brain, occurring on March 1.
A private funeral service has already taken place, attended by Toriyama’s immediate family members. As of now, dates for any official farewell events have not been made public.
The website post conveyed deep sorrow and remorse over Toriyama’s unexpected passing, noting that he was “dedicatedly involved in numerous projects” and expressing that “there were many aspirations he still wished to fulfill.” The post also expressed gratitude to Toriyama’s fans.
“He received immense support from individuals worldwide, enabling him to pursue his creative ventures for over 45 years,” the statement expressed.
“We earnestly desire that Akira Toriyama’s distinctive creations will continue to be cherished by all for years to come. We extend our heartfelt appreciation for your kindness and companionship throughout his lifetime,” it concluded.
Toriyama entered the scene in 1978 with his debut work, “Wonder Island.” Since then, he has crafted numerous beloved creations, including “Dr. Slump” and the iconic “Dragon Ball” series for the Weekly Shonen Jump comic book.
Of all his works, “Dragon Ball” stands out significantly. Serialization began in 1984, propelling it into an international sensation. The series has spawned animated adaptations and live-action films, maintaining its popularity worldwide even today.