Akira Toriyama
Akira Toriyama (April 5, 1955 – March 1, 2024) was a Japanese mangaka and designer, globally recognized for creating the iconic series Dragon Ball, one of the most influential works in the history of manga and anime. Born in Nagoya, Japan, Toriyama began his career in 1978 with Dr. Slump, a comedy series that earned him early recognition and the Shogakukan Prize in 1981.
In 1984, he published Dragon Ball, which became a global phenomenon, inspiring multiple anime adaptations, movies, video games, and a vast fanbase. His dynamic drawing style, thrilling narratives, and memorable characters, such as Goku, left an indelible mark on pop culture. Additionally, Toriyama contributed to character design in video games like Dragon Quest, Chrono Trigger, and Blue Dragon.
Throughout his career, Toriyama stood out for his creativity, humor, and ability to connect with audiences of all ages. His legacy continues to inspire artists and creators worldwide, even after his passing in 2024.