“Dragon Ball” creator and legendary manga author Akira Toriyama died Friday, March 1, a statement from his official studio confirmed. Bird Studio, which was founded by Toriyama, in the 80s, announced the author’s passing in a joint release made alongside Capsule Corporation Tokyo.
Toriyama’s most popular work would first take wing on the pages of the highly popular Japanese manga publication “Weekly Shonen Jump.” It followed his hit comedy “Dr. Slump” and would go on to revolutionize pop culture during its initial serialization from 1984-1995. An anime adaptation would bring the adventures of Goku and the Z Fighters to the rest of the world where it remains a much-loved phenomenon.
“We hope that Akira Toriyama’s unique world of creation continues to be loved by everyone for a long time to come,” the statement read.
He was 68 years-old at the time of his passing and a little over a month short of his birthday on April 5. The Nagoya-born genius’ influence can be seen in literature, video games, films, TV series, anime, and comics.
Dragon Ball’s massive success helped catapult the artist to superstar heights. It would later be spun-off into countless movies, video games, and adaptations that continue to be made. Additionally, Toriyama’s other work included providing character designs for the “Dragon Quest” series of games, RPG classic “Chrono Trigger,” and “Blue Dragon.” He remains among the best-selling manga authors of all-time, with “Dragon Ball” alone selling more than 260 million copies globally according to Toei Animation.
The statement has led to an outpouring of appreciation for the artist including from fans right here in Dayton.
One fan of the Japanese manga icon is Brian Mathus, an artist whose upcoming work will be displayed at the Middletown Art Center. He had this to say about the man many know as Toriyama-sensei.
“Akira Toriyama’s work, whether in print or on TV was moral and provided a unique connection point with other men and my son. While primarily targeted at children, ‘Dragon Ball’ especially had depth that anyone could appreciate,” he said.
Toriyama leaves behind a richer and happier world thanks to his numerous creations. A quick look at the number of artists and authors inspired by the genius underlines his impact on world culture. They include Eiichiro Oda (One Piece), Yoshihiro Togashi (Yu Yu Hakusho), Hiromu Arakawa (Fullmetal Alchemist), Tite Kubo (BLEACH), and Masashi Kishimoto (Jujutsu Kaisen) among many others.
Ismael David Mujahid, Executive Editor
(Featured Image by Shonen Jump Manga)