Kishimoto and Ikemoto’s Latest Interview: Questioning the Writer of Boruto

This year’s Konoha Day included an interview with Kishimoto and Ikemoto, sparking discussions about the writer of Boruto. While the interview primarily delved into Ikemoto’s experience with the sequel series, Kishimoto’s contributions unveiled previously unknown details to the fandom.

The interview revealed that the Naruto writer provided Ikemoto with a significant storyline to follow throughout the series. However, this storyline went through multiple alterations, with both authors working together to develop new storylines. Additionally, it was disclosed that Kishimoto also had a hand in the character designs, which were previously believed to be solely the responsibility of Ikemoto according to the fandom.

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Kishimoto and Ikemoto: An interview addressing the truth about Boruto’s writer

Who is Boruto's writer? (Image via Studio Pierrot) — Who is Boruto’s writer? (Image via Studio Pierrot)

The interviewer inquired about Masashi Kishimoto’s thoughts on being the sole author of the script for Naruto to Boruto during the Konoha Day interview. The author responded by saying:

“Concerning Boruto, I have no worries because I wrote the major points of the story draft, which acts as a template to the end of the story, and I’ve already handed it over to Ikemoto-san. If there are points to modify, we discuss them together and continue on by agreement. So, there’s no problem. Above all, Ikemoto create a nemu (rough draft) every month with ideas, development, and characters that surpass my story.”

Additionally, he stated:

“So, even though I check every month, there is nothing much to comment. Ikemoto is someone I trust and who has helped me in the production of Naruto. So, I was aware he was amazing in drawing and storytelling. I wouldn’t have done Boruto if Ikemoto-san hadn’t agreed to take over.”

Despite the belief held by the fandom, it was revealed that the Boruto series is not solely managed by Ikemoto. In fact, Kishimoto remains involved in the series, providing a rough outline that can be adjusted based on Ikemoto’s input.

If changes are deemed necessary, Kishimoto and Ikemoto collaborate and reach a mutual decision. Kishimoto also commends Ikemoto, praising his incredible imagination and minimal need for input in the monthly storyline of Boruto. This suggests that the writer of Boruto is not limited to a single author.

Concluding Thoughts

Kishimoto and Ikemoto can both be considered Boruto's writers (Image via Studio Pierrot) — Kishimoto and Ikemoto can both be considered Boruto’s writers (Image via Studio Pierrot)

Despite facing criticism from the fandom for the slow start and messy storyline of Boruto, Ikemoto was deemed unworthy of being the writer for the series. However, an interview with the Naruto author himself revealed that these accusations were unfounded and false.

Despite having previously only worked as a background artist for Naruto, Ikemoto’s involvement in the creation of Boruto marks a significant step in his career in the manga industry. Additionally, Masashi has acknowledged that without Ikemoto’s consent and management of the series, Boruto would not have been possible.