Akira Toriyama 'Dragon Ball' Creator Dead At 68

©bird Studio/Shueisha/Toei Animation

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Akira Toriyama, the creator of Dragon Ball has died at the age of 68.

As confirmed in a statement posted earlier today on Dragon Ball’s official website, Toriyama died on March 1, 2024 from an acute subdural hematoma. The statement, issued by Bird Studio and Capsule Corporation Tokyo, expressed the teams’ “deep regrets” as Toriyama “still had several works in the middle of creation with great enthusiasm.” and that “he would have many more things to achieve.”

“Thanks to the support of so many people around the world, he has been able to continue his creative activities for over 45 years. We hope that Akira Toriyama’s unique world of creation continues to be loved by everyone for a long time to come. “

Toriyama first achieved mainstream recognition with Dr. Slump, which was serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump between 1980 and 1984. Following the success of Dr. Slump, Toriyama then went on to create Dragon Ball. This idea was suggested by his editor Kazuhiko Torishima, who took note of Toriyama’s interests in martial arts films. Throughout time, both series have received numerous animated adaptations, particularly with Dragon Ball, which has become one of the most popular franchises worldwide.

Read the complete statement issued by Toriyama’s studios below: