KUALA LUMPUR – Akira Toriyama, the creator of the renowned Dragon Ball comics and anime series, died at the age of 68.
The news was conveyed by Bird Studio, the production studio founded by Toriyama, in a statement today.
“We are deeply saddened to inform you that manga creator (Toriyama) passed away on March 1 due to an acute subdural hematoma.
“It is our deep regret that he was still in the process of creating several works with great enthusiasm. He would also have a lot more to accomplish.
Noting that funeral services were held with Toriyama’s family and “very few relatives”, the studio stated that it will not accept “flowers, condolence gifts, visits, offerings, and others” in honour of Toriyama’s “wishes for tranquillity”.
“We ask you to refrain from conducting interviews with his family,” it added.
The studio also said it will inform the public once plans to hold a commemorative gathering have been confirmed.
In the comments section of the post, netizens expressed their sadness over Toriyama’s death, reminiscing on their favourite works from the legendary figure.
First serialised in 1984, Dragon Ball is considered one of the most influential manga titles of all time and has inspired several anime series, films and video games.
The franchise revolves around a boy named Son Goku who sets out on a journey with his companions to gain power by collecting magical balls in a quest to protect earth from its enemies. – March 8, 2024