Acclaimed Japanese manga artist Toriyama Akira, best known for his popular works “Dragon Ball” and “Dr. Slump,” passed away at the age of 68 due to acute subdural hematoma on March 1st. Born in Aichi Prefecture, Toriyama made his debut with Weekly Shonen Jump in 1978 and rose to fame with his series “Dr. Slump” in 1980, which was adapted into an animated series.
However, it was his iconic creation “Dragon Ball,” first released in 1984, that truly solidified Toriyama’s status as a legend in the manga industry. The series followed the adventures of protagonist Son Goku as he battled various villains, captivating audiences worldwide. “Dragon Ball” went on to sell over 260 million copies globally, leading to multiple animations, games, and even a Hollywood movie.
Toriyama also made a significant impact outside of manga with his character designs for the popular game series, “Dragon Quest.” His unique character designs and sense of design inspired countless artists and cartoonists, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of manga and pop culture.
Following his passing, Weekly Shonen Jump expressed their condolences on their website, acknowledging Toriyama’s influential contributions to the medium and praising his unforgettable characters. Toriyama’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of manga artists and fans around the world.
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Photo credit www3.nhk.or.jp