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Akira Toriyama was famous for his Dragon Ball comics and manga
The creator of Dragon Ball, one of the most influential and best-selling Japanese manga of all time, has died at the age of 68.
Akira Toriyama died of acute subdural hematoma, a type of bleeding near the brain, his studio announced Friday.
Dragon Ball is extremely popular all over the world, and the manga series has even spawned manga and movie versions.
Fans are paying tribute to Toriyama for creating a character that has become a part of their childhood.
The Dragon Ball comic series debuted in 1984. It follows the adventures of a boy named Son Goku who collects magical Dragon Balls to protect Earth from alien humanoids called Saiyans.
Mr. Toriyama had some unfinished works at the time of his death.
According to a statement on the Dragon Ball website, he passed away on March 1, and his funeral was attended by only his family and a small number of friends.
“He may still have much to accomplish, but he leaves behind many comic titles and works of art,” his studio said.
“I hope that Akira Toriyama’s unique creative world will continue to be loved by everyone for many years to come.”
Fans expressed their condolences on social media.
“Thank you for drawing a manga that represents my youth. Rest in peace. Thank you for your hard work.” X’s post quickly received 500 likes.
Another Japanese X user wrote, “It’s too soon and it’s too sad.”
Another user wrote, “His legacy will live on forever. Thank you for creating Akira, the most iconic anime character of all time.”