One Piece & Naruto Creator Share Heartfelt Messages On Akira Toriyama’s Death
The most influential figure in the manga world and the creator of the globally acclaimed “Dragon Ball”, Akira Toriyama sadly passed away at the age of 68. The news of Toriyama’s demise has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues alike, including the creators behind “One Piece” and “Naruto.”
Eiichiro Oda, the creator of “One Piece,” expressed his heartfelt condolences in a statement, describing Toriyama’s presence as an inspirational giant tree. “It’s too soon. The void left behind is too large. The sadness overwhelms me when I realize I’ll never meet you again”, he quoted.
“From my childhood, I’ve admired you. I remember the day I was first called by name. I remember the joyous moment with Kishimoto-san. I remember our last conversation. Taking the baton from an era where reading manga was considered foolish, you helped create an era where both adults and children enjoy manga.
You showed us that manga can do this, that it can take us to other worlds. It felt like watching a hero charging forward. Not just for manga artists, but for all the creators who were children during the serialization of Dragon Ball, the excitement and inspiration remain rooted. Your presence is like a giant tree.
For manga artists of our generation who stood on the same stage, Toriyama’s works became an even greater presence the closer we got. But meeting the laid-back you always made me happy. With respect and gratitude for Akira Toriyama-sensei’s rich creative world, I sincerely pray for his peaceful rest. May heaven be the delightful world you envisioned, Sensei”.
Similarly, Masashi Kishimoto, the mastermind behind “Naruto”, shared his grief over the loss of a pioneer in the field. “I honestly don’t know what to write in such a sudden situation. But I want to convey what I’ve always wanted to express about Toriyama-sensei, my thoughts”.
From early elementary school with Dr. Slump to later years with Dragon Ball, Sensei’s manga has always been with me, becoming a part of my life. Even when things were tough, Dragon Ball every week made me forget about it. It was salvation for a rural boy like me. Because Dragon Ball was just too much fun.
It was an opportunity to truly understand Sensei’s greatness. I want to create works like Sensei! I want to be like Sensei! Because making manga was fun. Sensei was always my guiding star. I admired him. Sensei might find it bothersome, but I’m grateful anyway. He was truly a god of salvation and manga to me.
The first time I met him, I was so nervous I couldn’t speak. Oda-san and I talked excitedly about how fun Dragon Ball was, almost competing, and I’ll never forget the slightly embarrassed smile Sensei gave us. I’ve just received news of Sensei’s passing. I’m overwhelmed with a sense of loss even greater than when Dragon Ball ended.
I still don’t know how to deal with this hole in my heart. I can’t even read Dragon Ball, my beloved manga, now. I don’t feel like I can write this message to Sensei properly. People around the world were still looking forward to Sensei’s works. If there’s one wish from Dragon Ball that could come true… I’m sorry… It may be selfish, but I’m sad, Sensei.
Thank you, Akira Toriyama-sensei, for your many enjoyable works over 45 years. And thank you very much for your hard work. To the remaining family, you must still be deeply saddened. Please take care of yourselves. I pray for the peaceful rest of Akira Toriyama-sensei”, the author mentioned in his heartfelt message.
The official Dragon Ball website reported on Friday that Akira Toriyama passed away on March 1 due to a subdural hematoma (a serious condition where blood collects between the skull and the surface of the brain). As the world mourns the loss of the legendary manga artist, he’ll live forever in the hearts of his fans.
Many cite “Dragon Ball” as their introduction to anime and manga, praising Toriyama for igniting their passion for the medium. Needless to say, his impact on the industry will continue to resonate for years to come, ensuring that his spirit lives on through the stories he brought to life.
For more anime and manga news articles, make sure to follow us on Instagram. You can also check out our anime ranking page for more articles.
