A Titan Falls: Akira Toriyama, the legendary creator of Dragon Ball, passed away on March 1, 2024, at the age of 68. The cause of death was reported to be a subdural hematoma, a type of bleeding in the brain [Sportskeeda].
From Humble Beginnings: Though his art would conquer the world, Toriyama didn't begin creating manga until his early 20s [CBR].
Comedy Roots: Before the epic battles of Dragon Ball, Toriyama started with comedic manga. His early success with Dr. Slump showcased his talent for humor that would still shine through in Dragon Ball [CBR].
Global Phenomenon: Dragon Ball became a worldwide sensation, selling over 260 million copies and sparking a massive anime and video game franchise [Wikipedia].
Artistic Inspiration: From a young age, Toriyama was captivated by illustrations and movies like "One Hundred and One Dalmatians," which fueled his artistic passion [Wikipedia].
A Reluctant Warrior: Initially hesitant about creating a battle manga, Toriyama was eventually persuaded by his editor, leading to the birth of Dragon Ball [CBR].
Gaming Greatness: Beyond Dragon Ball, Toriyama's character designs for the Dragon Quest video game series cemented his influence in the gaming world [Fact #1].
Mentor and Inspiration: Toriyama's work inspired countless manga artists, with creators like One Piece's Eiichiro Oda calling him a "big tree" for younger artists [Mountainview Today].
Creative Spirit: Despite his immense success, Toriyama remained dedicated to his craft, constantly striving to improve his art [CBR].
A Legacy Lives On: While his passing is a loss to the manga industry, Toriyama's fantastical characters and stories continue to captivate fans worldwide.