The passing of Akira Toriyama has reverberated throughout the anime and manga community, casting a shadow of sorrow over fans and creators alike. His impact on the industry is immeasurable, with tributes pouring in from every corner of the globe.

From fellow manga artists to voice actors and production studios, Toriyama’s influence is undeniable, his legacy indelibly woven into the fabric of the medium through iconic works like “Dr. Slump” and “Dragon Ball.”

Toriyama’s death came as a profound shock to many, as the creator had kept his health struggles largely private. His sudden passing left fans reeling, grappling with both grief and the unexpectedness of his departure.

For those eagerly anticipating new developments in the “Dragon Ball” series, the news was particularly poignant, extinguishing hopes of future adventures in the beloved universe he had crafted.

In hindsight, there were subtle signs that hinted at Toriyama’s concerns for his well-being. Just months prior to his passing, news of his upcoming lifetime achievement award raised eyebrows among fans, prompting speculation about the state of his health. 

In his final comments before his untimely demise, Toriyama himself alluded to his health struggles, expressing uncertainty about his condition and offering insights into the challenges he faced.

While Toriyama’s departure leaves a void in the anime and manga landscape, his creative legacy endures as a testament to his unparalleled talent and vision.

His characters, worlds, and stories continue to inspire countless individuals, igniting imaginations and sparking lifelong passions. Though he may no longer walk among us, Akira Toriyama’s spirit lives on through the pages of his masterful works, forever cherished by those who have been touched by his artistry.

Akira Toriyama: A Humble Reflection on Receiving the Tokyo Anime Award Festival’s Lifetime Achievement Award

On December 14, 2023, it was announced that Akira Toriyama had been honored with the Tokyo Anime Award Festival 2024’s prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award.

The news sent ripples of excitement and anticipation throughout the anime community, with fans eagerly awaiting the live presentation ceremony scheduled for March 2024.

When asked to comment on this monumental achievement, Toriyama’s response, shared by @SupaChronicles on X (formerly Twitter), offered a glimpse into the renowned creator’s humble perspective.

In his statement, Toriyama candidly admitted,

“To be honest, I have never had much interest in anime, and even when my work was made into animated format, I feel embarrassed to admit that I did not watch much of it, apologize to the staff. About 10 years ago, out of the blue, I was asked to revise the script for the Dragon Ball animated film, and I drew some simple designs for the characters and backgrounds. I thought, ‘I can leave the difficult parts for the staff’ (laughs). Thus, it is truly embarrassing that I am the recipient of the Tokyo Anime Awards Festival’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Thank you very much.”

Reflecting on his involvement in the animation process, Toriyama revealed that his contributions were often limited, with much of the intricate work handled by the dedicated staff.

He recounted an instance from a decade ago when he was approached to revise the script for a Dragon Ball animated film, where he provided simple character and background designs, leaving the more complex tasks to the capable hands of his team.

he remarked with characteristic humility.

In light of his modest involvement in the anime realm, Toriyama expressed genuine surprise and embarrassment at being bestowed with such a prestigious accolade. Yet, regardless of his reservations, he graciously accepted the honor, concluding his statement with a heartfelt “Thank you very much.”

Toriyama’s candid admission not only sheds light on his unassuming nature but also underscores the collaborative effort behind the creation of beloved anime adaptations like Dragon Ball.

His acknowledgment of the contributions made by the dedicated staff serves as a testament to his respect for the craft and the individuals who bring his vision to life on the screen.

Akira Toriyama’s Final Remarks

In his poignant final remarks before his untimely passing, Akira Toriyama conveyed his heartfelt gratitude to all those who had supported him throughout his illustrious career.

Speaking candidly, he expressed uncertainty about the state of his health, attributing it in part to his lifestyle choices during his younger years.

Toriyama’s statement, shared in a 1983 interview and resonating with fans to this day, reflected his humility and determination in the face of adversity.

“Finally, I would like to thank everyone who has supported me so far!”

He exclaimed, acknowledging the unwavering encouragement of his fans and collaborators.

However, he also admitted to harboring doubts about his ability to continue creating at the same pace, citing concerns about his health.

The manga maestro’s candid admission shed light on the toll that past habits had taken on his well-being, serving as a sobering reminder of the importance of self-care and balance.

Regardless of these challenges, Toriyama remained resolute in his commitment to his craft, vowing to persevere and deliver more amazing works for his devoted audience.

Indeed, his resolve to continue producing entertaining and engaging content remained undimmed, as he implored his fans to stand by him on his journey.

“I will try my best to create more interesting pieces of work, so please continue to support me!”

He declared his words a testament to his enduring passion for storytelling and his unwavering dedication to those who had placed their trust in him.

Even in his final moments, Toriyama’s indomitable spirit shone through, inspiring generations of creators and fans alike with his resilience and creativity.

Though he may no longer be with us, his legacy lives on, a testament to the enduring power of his artistry and the profound impact he made on the manga and beyond.