In a sorrowful announcement, Bird Studio confirmed the passing of Akira Toriyama, the esteemed creator of the Dragon Ball manga, at 68. Toriyama, who sadly left us on March 1, 2024, suffered an acute subdural hematoma, a severe form of bleeding near the brain. Despite his health struggles, he remained actively involved in his creative pursuits until his final days, as the official Dragon Ball website noted.
A creative journey spanning over four decades
Toriyama’s illustrious career spanned an impressive 45 years, during which he created a rich tapestry of characters and stories that transcended various media. His works weren’t confined to manga alone; they extended to anime, movies, and video games. Besides Dragon Ball, his notable creations include the whimsical Dr Slump, featuring the beloved robot character Arale, as well as contributions to acclaimed video game titles such as Dragon Quest and Chrono Trigger.
Dragon Ball: A legacy that transcends borders
Undoubtedly, Dragon Ball stands as Toriyama’s most influential and celebrated work. Drawing inspiration from the classic Chinese novel “Journey to the West,” it introduced iconic characters like Goku, who became global household names. The series’ impact is far-reaching, enjoyed through manga, anime, movies, and games, and even permeating everyday life through merchandise like t-shirts and toys.
Honouring a visionary’s legacy
As the world mourns the loss of a visionary, Bird Studio has respectfully requested privacy for Toriyama’s family during this difficult time. Plans for a commemorative service are still undecided. Fans who wish to express their condolences can leave comments on the Dragon Ball website, where a global community has already begun sharing their heartfelt tributes in various languages.
For those wanting to reflect on Toriyama’s remarkable journey and contributions, the Dragon Ball site remains a testament to his enduring legacy.
