Akira Toriyamathe influential manga artist who created the Dragon Ball anime franchise, died on March 1 from an acute subdural hematoma – blood clots in the brain that typically form after an injury. He was 68 years old.
A statement from his Bird Studio said it was “deeply saddened” to announce his passing.
“It is our deep regret that he still has several works being created with great enthusiasm,” the statement added. “Plus, he would have a lot more things to accomplish. However, he left many manga titles and artworks to this world.
Toriyama's most famous work was a manga series. Dragon Ball, which follows Son Goku, a man who goes from a failed martial arts student to a globe-trotting master with powers who defeats all manner of villains while searching for seven Dragon Ball orbs. It was inspired by the classic Chinese novel Travel west.
The first manga comics were first published in 1984 and ran until 1995. Toei Animation adapted the stories into two series, Dragon Ball And Dragon Ball Z, and has since directed numerous feature films and specials based on the franchise. It is one of the most profitable media properties, spanning lucrative trading card games, collectibles, toys, soundtracks, and video games.
The franchise made Toriyama one of the most beloved and well-known manga artists of all time.
“Thanks to the support of so many people around the world, he has been able to continue his creative pursuits for more than 45 years,” said Bird Studio, which he founded in 1983. “We hope that the unique world of creative 'Akira Toriyama will continue to grow and be loved by everyone for a long time.
A small funeral service with his family and “very few relatives” was held, Studio Bird said, adding that it would not accept flowers or condolence gifts and asked the press to refrain from conducting interviews with his family. Future commemoration plans have not yet been decided.
“We deeply thank you for your understanding and support, as always. »