OBITUARY | Creator of Dragon Ball Manga, Akira Toriyama Dies at 68

Akira Toriyama is known for being the creator of the popular manga series Dragon Ball. On March 8, Bird Studio announced that Toriyama had died on March 1. He was 68 years old. 

The cause of death was attributed to an acute subdural hematoma. 

In a farewell message to the artist, the website read, "It's our deep regret that he still had many works in the middle of creation with great enthusiasm. Also, he would have many more things to achieve." 

The message goes on to highlight the mangaka's creative achievements. Bird Studio says: 

"However, he has left many many manga titles and works of art to this world. 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 work of creation continues to be loved by everyone for a long time to come." 

Commemorating the Artist

The company announced that the family had already held a funeral with close relatives. It asked the many fans to refrain from sending condolences, incense, offerings, or flowers, out of respect for the mangaka's wishes. 

Bird Studio also requested the media to refrain from interviewing Toriyama's family. 

"Future plans for a commemorative gathering are not decided. We will let you know when [any plan] is confirmed," the message continues. 

Fans React with Messages

Toriyama is known for the series Dr Slump. Around the world, however, the manga artist took off in popularity thanks to the Dragon Ball series, which first debuted in 1984. 

Farewell messages are already flooding the official Dragon Ball homepage, where the announcement was posted. 

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"Thank you so much for all Toriyama. We will never forget you!," says online user DeadBryam. 

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Author: Arielle Busetto