Akira Toriyama died on Friday, 1 March 2024. He was 68.
Akira Toriyama dies: What’s the cause of death?
A family statement released in the wee hours of Friday confirmed the creator of the iconic Manga series Dragon Ball died of acute subdural hematoma, a type of bleeding that occurs between the brain and its outermost covering, often due to severe head injury, leading to increased pressure on the brain.
His family and close relatives held a private funeral service, adhering to his wish for tranquillity. They have requested privacy during this difficult time, asking for no flowers, condolence gifts, or interviews.
“It’s our deep regret that he still had several works in the middle of creation with great enthusiasm. Also, he would have many more things to achieve. However, he has left 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 world of creation continues to be loved by everyone for a long time to come,” the statement read.
Akira Toriyama biography
Born in Nagoya, Aichi, Japan, Akira Toriyama’s fascination with illustration was evident from a young age. Inspired by the One Hundred and One Dalmatians and manga collections he encountered, his passion for drawing flourished.
Although his interests briefly shifted away from manga during his middle school years, they were reignited by his love for films, TV shows, and tokusatsu entertainment.
Opting against further education after high school, Toriyama embarked on a career in advertising before his undeniable talent led him to the world of manga.
Toriyama’s journey into manga began with series like Dragon Boy, which eventually evolved into the iconic Dragon Ball.
This series not only revolutionised the shōnen genre but also became one of the best-selling manga series worldwide, with its anime adaptations, films, and merchandise enjoying global success.
Beyond Dragon Ball, Toriyama contributed to video game character design, including the beloved Dragon Quest series, and engaged in various other creative projects.
Throughout his life, Toriyama maintained a private existence, preferring to let his work speak for itself. His contributions to manga, anime, and video games have left an indelible mark on the industry and fans alike
Reactions to Toriyama’s death
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The news of Akira Toriyama’s passing has elicited a profound response from fans, colleagues, and the entertainment industry worldwide. Social media platforms have become a space for mourning, celebration of his work, and sharing of personal stories about how Toriyama’s creations have impacted lives.
Here are some of the reactions we picked:
