Akira Toriyama, the renowned creator of the beloved Japanese animated series Dragon Ball Z, has tragically passed away at the age of 68. The official Twitter account of Dragon Ball Z confirmed this heartbreaking news on Thursday, revealing that Toriyama succumbed to an acute subdural hematoma on March 1st.
Despite his untimely passing, Toriyama had several ongoing projects that he was passionately working on. The announcement expressed gratitude for the global support that enabled Toriyama to continue his creative endeavors for over 45 years, hoping that his unique creations would be cherished by fans for years to come.
A private funeral service has already been held for Toriyama, attended by his family and a select few relatives. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time, asking for no flowers or gifts and declining visitors. They have also declined interviews for now, with the possibility of a commemorative event in the future.
Dragon Ball Z, which debuted in Japan in the 1980s and gained immense popularity worldwide, was just one of Toriyama's many successful projects. He also contributed to video game franchises like Dragon Quest and Chrono Trigger, showcasing his iconic anime style.
Toriyama's illustrious career began at the age of 23 when he won an amateur manga creator contest, leading to his remarkable journey in the world of manga and anime. His recent rumored project, a Dragon Ball Z spin-off series titled Dragon Ball Daima, was eagerly anticipated by fans, with Toriyama deeply involved in its development according to reports from New York Comic Con 2023.
The legacy of Akira Toriyama, a visionary artist and storyteller, will undoubtedly endure through his timeless creations that have captivated audiences around the globe.
