Akira Toriyama, author of Dragon Ball, dies at the age of 68

Dragon Ball creator Akira Toriyama has died at the age of 68 due to health complications.

In the world of manga and anime, it is impossible to miss the famous Dragon Ball franchise. Published for the first time in 1985, the manga quickly won over readers, consolidating the foundations of the shonen genre for good, making it a pillar of Japanese pop culture.

Unfortunately, the sad news has fallen: author Akira Toriyama died on March 1, 2024, following complications related to his health. News of his death, resulting from a subdural hematoma, was shared on social media by publishing house Shueisha and Bird Studio.

Akira Toriyama, author of Dragon Ball, dies

It was in a letter to Toriyama’s friends, fans and collaborators that the announcement of his death was made.

Information ; Dear Friends and Partnershttps://t.co/85dXseckzJ pic.twitter.com/aHlx8CGA2M

— DRAGON BALL OFFICIAL (@DB_official_en) March 8, 2024

“We are deeply saddened to learn that manga author Akira Toriyama passed away on March 1st from a subdural hematoma. He was 68 years old. To our great regret, he still had several works in progress, which he carried out with enthusiasm. Moreover, he could have completed many other achievements.”

The letter continues, discussing Akira Toriyama’s impact on the world of manga and Japanese animation.

“Regardless, he leaves behind many manga titles and artistic works. Thanks to the support of so many people around the world, he has been able to continue his creative pursuits for over 45 years. We hope that Akira Toriyama’s unique creative work will continue to be loved by everyone for a long time to come. We share this sad news with you, and our gratitude for your kindness during his life.”

Fans are then asked not to send messages, flowers or gifts, in order to protect the family of the deceased. Likewise, journalists are asked to avoid requests for interviews from relatives of the author.

The characters invented by Akira Toriyama will have rocked generations of readers, spectators, but also players and others: because the Dragon Ball franchise has shined in countless areas. And the legacy left by the shonen sensei will undoubtedly continue to make the hearts of fans beat for many years to come.