On Friday, March 22, 2024, readers eagerly perused the author comments section of Shueisha’s highly anticipated Weekly Shonen Jump Issue #17. This edition carried significant weight as it featured heartfelt reflections on the passing of the legendary mangaka, Akira Toriyama.
Among the voices echoing sentiments of loss and admiration were esteemed creators such as Eiichiro Oda, the mastermind behind the beloved One Piece series, Gege Akutami, creator of the spellbinding Jujutsu Kaisen, and Yoshifumi Tozuka, the imaginative mind behind Undead Unluck.
Their words served as a poignant reminder of Toriyama’s enduring legacy and the profound impact he had on the manga.
Notably absent from this chorus of condolences was Kohei Horikoshi, the creative force behind the acclaimed My Hero Academia.
However, this omission stemmed not from oversight but rather from Horikoshi’s scheduled break during the week of the issue’s release.
It’s a customary practice for author comments from creators on hiatus to be excluded from the section. Rest assured, fans can anticipate Horikoshi’s heartfelt tribute to Akira Toriyama in Issue #18’s author comments section, a witness to the profound influence Toriyama wielded over generations of mangaka and readers alike.
Remembering Akira Toriyama: A Tribute from the Manga Community
In addition to the aforementioned trio, a multitude of other esteemed mangaka lent their voices to the chorus of condolences following the passing of Akira Toriyama.
Among them were Hitsuji Gondaira of Mission: Yozakura Family, Yuto Suzuki of SAKAMOTO DAYS, Shuhei Miyazaki of Me & Roboco, Yusei Matsui of The Elusive Samurai, Shinohara Kenta of WITCH WATCH, Miura Kouji of Blue Box, Yuki Suenaga of Akane Banashi, and Masaoki Shindo of RuriDragon.
Further expressions of grief and appreciation came from Tadatoshi Fujimaki of Kill Blue, Kawae Kota of Nue’s Exorcist, Yoshihiko Kayashi of MamaYuyu, Takeru Hokazono of Kagurabachi, Itsumo Elck of Two on Ice, Terasaka Kento of Green Green Greens, Amemiya Kento of Shadow Eliminators, Numa Shun of Super Psychic Policeman Chojo, and Matsui Rin of Dear Anemone.
Nearly all of these talented creators echoed sentiments of gratitude towards Toriyama, recognizing him as an unparalleled source of inspiration and a towering figure in the manga industry.
Their words reflected both the profound impact Toriyama had on their artistic endeavors and the deep sorrow felt at his sudden departure. Fond memories of his iconic creations and the mark he left on their professional and personal lives were shared with a heavy heart.
The widespread grief and admiration for Toriyama underscored his status as a true luminary within the manga world. Often hailed as a “god” and likened to the legendary Osamu Tezuka himself, Toriyama’s influence extended far beyond the confines of the industry, resonating deeply with fans worldwide. Indeed, his legacy transcended generations, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of countless individuals.
As fans mourned the loss of a beloved icon, thoughts and condolences poured out to Toriyama’s loved ones, recognizing that their grief undoubtedly eclipsed that of even the most devoted admirers.
In this time of sorrow, the manga community stood united in honoring the memory of a true legend, whose contributions will forever shape the manga and beyond.