Dragon Ball creator Akira Toriyama dies aged 68

"Renowned Japanese manga artist Akira Toriyama, celebrated for creating iconic works like "Dragon Ball" and "Dr. Slump," passed away on March 1 due to an acute subdural hematoma, as announced by publisher Shueisha. He was 68 years old. Funeral services have already been conducted in the presence of close relatives.

Toriyama's legacy spans decades, with "Dragon Ball" making a significant impact globally since its debut in 1984 in the weekly Shonen Jump magazine. The franchise has transcended manga to become a cultural phenomenon, spawning anime adaptations, feature films, TV series, video games, and character merchandise.

Despite Toriyama's passing, his influence continues to thrive, with the announcement of a new anime series, "Dragon Ball Daima," slated for release this fall, as revealed in October 2023. Tributes poured in from fellow manga artists, with Masashi Kishimoto, creator of "Naruto," expressing profound sadness at the loss and acknowledging Toriyama's profound influence on his life.

Eiichiro Oda creator of "One Piece”

Eiichiro Oda, creator of "One Piece," hailed Toriyama as a pioneer who paved the way for manga's acceptance across generations and cultural boundaries. Toriyama's artistic talents extended beyond manga, as he also contributed character designs to Square Enix Holdings' beloved Dragon Quest series of video games.

Yuji Horii, creator of Dragon Quest

Yuji Horii, creator of Dragon Quest, fondly remembered Toriyama's collaboration and creative contributions to the franchise over 37 years. Toriyama's impact on global pop culture was evident, with American singer Chris Brown expressing gratitude for shaping his childhood through "Dragon Ball."

Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi acknowledged Toriyama's immense cultural influence during a news conference, emphasizing his role in promoting Japan's soft power internationally. Reflecting on Toriyama's personal side, a former neighbor recalled memorable encounters with the artist, describing him as both humorous and family-oriented.

Akira Toriyama leaves behind a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide, solidifying his status as a titan in the world of manga and pop culture."