STORY BY MATTHEW DENICOLA
PHOTO COURTESY OF COMIC BOOK RESOURCES
The creator of the Dragon Ball franchise Akira Toriyama, passed away on March 1, due to a subdural hematoma at the age of 68.
As tributes pour in from across the globe, Toriyama’s legacy stands as a testament to the power of creativity and the enduring impact of his unparalleled contributions to the world of entertainment. His colorful characters, engrossing narrative, and limitless imagination also served as inspiration for other manga artists to follow in his footsteps.
Students at Cypress College who watch or read any of his projects are in shock at the passing of Toriyama. Students digest the tragic passing and reminisce about what Toriyama created in his 40 years.
Cybersecurity major, Charlaton Escaritn said, “It was crazy because I had just finished washing my hands, and then I picked up my phone and saw the news,” he continued, “It dawned on me that even the past three hours had taken on greater significance in my mind because this guy was a part of my childhood, and I truly appreciate that he created one of the most amazing anime in the world.”
As students reflect on Toriyama’s death, they also reflect on their childhood watching his projects on cable and YouTube.
Music major, Jason Curiel said, “I have a lot of people in my friend group and I remember as a kid I sat up late and watched Toonami on Cartoon Network. I also really like Dragon Ball Abridged because seeing all of the funny gems that were unfiltered and how they use inside jokes from the regular show.”
Cureil also stated, “My favorite character that Toriyama created was Krillen because he is the strongest human fighter and the character was funny to me because he would help his friends but stay away from the fight scenes.”
His death impacted everyone deeply invested in his work greatly, especially on X. Several manga creators were all in tears, including Masashi Kishimoto, creator of Naruto, Eiichiro Oda, creator of One Piece, and Toyoatou, the Japanese manga artist for the Dragon Ball Super and Toriyama Student.
Toriyama’s expected passing has greatly impacted students as they comprehend that quickly everything can change from the days of t playing outside and trying to transform into a Super Saiyan. Some students remembered trying to do the Kamehameha to their friends and thinking they could do a laser beam out of their hand.
Akira Toriyama made four main series, Dragon Ball, Dragon Ball Z, Dragon Ball GT, and Dragon Ball Super. He also was part of 28 Dragon Ball movies and won two awards in his lifetime (Shogakukan Manga Award 1981 and Ordres des Arts et des Lettres 2019). Rest in Peace King of Anime.
