Akira Toriyama, the legendary creator behind the globally acclaimed Dragon Ball manga and anime series, has passed away at the age of 68, leaving a legacy that has profoundly influenced the world of animation and storytelling. Born in Japan in 1955, Toriyama embarked on a journey that would change the face of anime and manga forever with the creation of Dragon Ball in 1984. This series, featuring the adventures of Goku and his friends, quickly became a worldwide sensation, amassing a vast fanbase across the globe.

Dragon Ball’s success led to the creation of iconic sequels such as Dragon Ball Z and Dragon Ball Super, further cementing the series’ place in the annals of anime and manga history as one of the most iconic works ever created. Toriyama’s dedication to his art continued until his final days, contributing to manga and his most recent cinematic venture, Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero.

Toriyama also introduced fans to Sand Land: The Series on Hulu and shared glimpses of Goku’s new adventures in Dragon Ball Forever, whose trailer was released earlier this year. The official announcement of his passing on his website revealed that he died of an acute subdural hematoma on March 1, 2024.

Akira Toriyama leaves behind several unfinished projects, highlighting the sudden nature of his departure. Despite this, his legacy will live on through his immense contributions to numerous manga series over a career spanning more than 45 years. His funeral, attended only by family and a few close relatives, was held in accordance with his wishes for privacy, with plans for a memorial service to be announced in due time.

The news of Toriyama’s death has echoed around the world, with fans and members of the anime community expressing their sorrow and gratitude on social media platforms. A heartfelt message shared by many fans encapsulates the sentiment: “Thank you for creating a manga that represented my youth. Thank you for your hard work, rest in peace.”

Toriyama’s untimely death not only leaves a void in the realm of creative projects and unrealized goals but also marks the end of an era for fans worldwide. His innovative vision and relentless dedication have left an indelible mark on the world, ensuring that his creations will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.