Reasons Behind the Hunter X Hunter Anime Concluding Before the Manga

The Hunter x Hunter anime gained immense popularity upon its initial release. The manga, crafted by Yoshihiro Togashi, captivated audiences right from the start. A significant factor contributing to this manga’s acclaim was Togashi’s intricate world-building, paired with an innovative battle system that provided a refreshing change from typical shonen titles.

However, the anime faced an unexpected halt. Many newer fans are puzzled by this situation and have taken to various social media platforms and forums to inquire why the Hunter x Hunter anime concluded before the manga. In short, this abrupt ending was primarily due to scheduling challenges and the declining health of the manga author.

Insight into the Ending of the Hunter x Hunter Anime

The Hunter x Hunter anime has two major adaptations, both of which ended rather suddenly. The first adaptation premiered in 1999, a year after manga serialization commenced in Shueisha’s Weekly Shonen Jump magazine in 1998.

The first anime aired just a year following the debut of the manga’s serialization, produced by Nippon Animation. The challenge with this timing was that the anime often covered multiple chapters per episode, which led to only four seasons being produced for television.

Both the manga and the original Hunter x Hunter anime (1999) followed weekly release patterns. Consequently, the anime quickly caught up to the manga, resulting in its discontinuation. This situation is also why various shonen anime adaptations often resort to incorporating filler episodes.

Series like Dragon Ball and Naruto are notorious for including filler content. However, Hunter x Hunter only featured two filler episodes before it came to an end.

Gon and Killua, important characters in the 2011 anime adaptation of the manga (Image via Madhouse) — Gon and Killua, key characters from the 2011 anime adaptation (Image via Madhouse)

Fans were thrilled when a second adaptation was released in 2011, produced by Madhouse, a renowned studio known for its work on iconic anime such as One Punch Man and Death Note. This version aired for three years, concluding in 2014, and comprised six seasons.

The termination of this adaptation was primarily due to Yoshihiro Togashi’s declining health. The manga author has been struggling with severe back pain, which led to extended hiatuses.

Fortunately, the manga is set to make its return in October 2024, thanks to the support of Togashi’s team and his wife, Naoko Takeuchi, the creator of Sailor Moon.

In summary, the first anime adaptation ended due to its rapid catch-up with the manga. The second adaptation, which debuted in 2011, was brought to a close because of the author’s health issues. While the timeline for a potential anime revival remains uncertain, fans are hopeful for Togashi’s recovery and prioritize his wellbeing above all else.

Stay tuned for more updates on Hunter x Hunter anime and manga as 2024 unfolds.

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