Renowned Japanese manga artist and creator of the iconic “Dragon Ball” series, Akira Toriyama, passed away on March 1 at the age of 68. His studio, Bird Studio, confirmed the news, stating that Toriyama died from acute subdural hematoma, a serious brain injury. The news of his death sent shockwaves through the manga and anime community, with fans and fellow creators expressing their grief and condolences on social media.

Toriyama's influence on the world of manga and anime is immeasurable. His creation of “Dragon Ball” in 1984 became a global phenomenon, selling millions of copies worldwide and inspiring numerous animated TV shows, video games, and films. The series, which follows the adventures of Son Goku in his quest for the magical Dragon Balls, has become a cultural touchstone for fans of all ages.

In addition to "Dragon Ball," Toriyama also created other popular manga series such as "Dr. Slump" and "Sand Land." His unique storytelling and character design set him apart as a true visionary in the world of comics. Eiichiro Oda, creator of "One Piece," paid tribute to Toriyama, calling him a "big tree" for younger artists and acknowledging the immense impact he had on the industry.

Toriyama's dedication to his craft was evident in his work ethic. He was known for meeting deadlines and producing high-quality content consistently, despite his aversion to the spotlight. His success with “Dragon Ball” and other works earned him accolades and awards, including France's Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters.

As news of Toriyama's passing spread, fans shared their memories of his work and the impact it had on their lives. His legacy as a master storyteller and artist will continue to inspire future generations of manga creators. The world has truly lost a visionary talent in Akira Toriyama, but his creations will live on and continue to be cherished by fans around the world.