In what comes as a sad and shocking development, it was revealed that Dragon Ball creator Akira Toriyama passed away on March 1, 2024, succumbing to acute subdural hematoma at the age of 68.

Toriyama’s passing was confirmed by his studio, BIRD STUDIO, and Capsule Corporation Tokyo, in an official statement released to the public on March 8, 2024.

According to the statement, Toriyama was working on several projects with great enthusiasm, one of which was the ongoing Dragon Ball Super manga.

In accordance with Toriyama’s wishes for privacy and tranquility, a private funeral service was held with only close family members in attendance. Additionally, it was made clear that the family would not be accepting flowers, condolences gifts, or conducting interviews with the media at this time.

While plans for a commemorative gathering to honor Toriyama’s life and work have yet to be finalized, BIRD STUDIO and Capsule Corporation Tokyo assured fans that they would be informed once arrangements were confirmed.

Moreover, Shueisha’s editorial departments issued a joint statement, expressing their deep sorrow at the sudden death of Toriyama and highlighted the global impact of his creations.

We, the editorial department of Shueisha, are deeply saddened by the sudden news of Akira Toriyama’ death, a manga artist who has published many works in Weekly Shonen Jump.

His manga works, including Dr. Slump, Dragon Ball, and Sand Land, have been read and loved by people all over the world.

The charming characters he created and his overwhelming design sense have had a great influence on many manga artists and creators.

We would like to express our sincere gratitude for his great achievements and pray for his soul to rest in peace.

Editorial Department of Weekly Shonen Jump
Editorial Department of V Jump
Editorial Department of Jump SQ.
Editorial Department of Saikyo Jump
Editorial Department of Shonen Jump+

Born on April 5, 1955, Akira Toriyama first received widespread recognition for his manga Dr. Slump, for which he won the 1981 Shogakukan Manga Award for best shonen manga.

He then went on to create his most famous work Dragon Ball, which became one of the most popular and successful manga in the world, selling 260 million copies worldwide.

Toriyama was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at 2024 Tokyo Anime Award Festival. He was also decorated a Chevalier of the French Ordre des Arts et des Lettres for his contributions to the arts.

Source: Official Website