Akira Toriyama, creator of ‘Dragon Ball’, has died aged 68
Akira Toriyama, the creator of the popular manga and anime Dragon Ball, has died at the age of 68.
Published between 1984 and 1995, Dragon Ball was adapted into two anime series while it was still being made as a manga, Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z. Both were extremely popular, becoming some of Japan’s best-known animations.
Since the 1980s, the franchise has remained incredibly popular, spawning other forms of media, including movies and merchandise. Toriyama’s creations have proved influential on many modern comic book artists and animators.
However, the Dragon Ball website has announced Toriyama has died from an acute subdural hematoma. “It’s our deep regret that he still has several works in the middle of creation with great enthusiasm,” the announcement stated.
The website also thanked fans for appreciating Toriyama’s work over the decades, adding, “We hope that Akira Toriyama’s unique world of creation continues to be loved by everyone for a long time to come.”
After passing away on March 1st, a small and intimate funeral service was held to honour his life, although the family have requested fans to abstain from sending gifts and flowers or reaching out for an interview.
The Nagoya-born artist also worked on projects such as Dragon Quest and Blue Dragon, citing an early love for Astro Boy as one of his main inspirations for becoming a comic book artist.
One of his earliest works was Dr. Slump, which became one of the highest-selling mangas in Japan, winning him several prestigious awards. He soon followed this with Dragon Ball, which propelled him to unprecedented heights.
Never Miss A Scene
The Far Out Film Newsletter
All the latest film news from the independent voice of culture.
Straight to your inbox.