Akira Toriyama: Dragon Ball creator dies at 68

The creator of famous Japanese anime Dragon Ball, Akira Toriyama, has died at 68.

Dragon Ball is one of the most influential and best-selling Japanese comics of all time. It also spawned cartoon and film versions.

Toriyama suffered an “acute subdural haematoma” — a blood clot in the brain — a statement posted to the official Dragon Ball account on X.

Rest in peace to Akira Toriyama, the creator of the Dragon Ball series

Our childhood hero and an inspiration to all other anime/manga

R.I.P Akira Toriyama pic.twitter.com/WSx7R9eSPU

— Sumit (@SumitHansd) March 8, 2024

Fans paid tribute to the comic creator, for the characters that have become a part of their childhood.

The series debuted in in 1984. It revolves around a boy named Son Goku in his quest to collect magical dragon balls to defend Earth against alien humanoids called Saiyans.

Toriyama had uncompleted works at the time of his death.

According to the statement published on Dragon Ball website, he died on March 01 and only his family and very few friends attended his funeral.

“He would have many more things to achieve. However, he has left many manga titles and works of art to this world,” his studio said.

“We hope that Akira Toriyama’s unique world of creation continues to be loved by everyone for a long time to come,” it added.