SUMMARY
Fans can breathe a sigh of relief as Toyotaro communicated, albeit indirectly, the continuation of “Dragon Ball Super” with him at the helm during a recent broadcast.
Toyotaro’s remarks imply that he intends to keep delivering thrilling battles to fans despite Akira Toriyama’s passing.
With Toyotaro’s evident passion and commitment, he appears ready to guide the series into the era following Toriyama’s legacy.
The Dragon Ball community has been understandably anxious about the future of “Dragon Ball Super,” the monthly manga chronicling Goku and his friends’ adventures, following Akira Toriyama’s demise. However, those worries can now be eased as Toyotaro, the manga’s artist, has subtly confirmed his involvement in the series’ return.
During the August 26th episode of the Weekly Dragon Ball News show, Toyotaro, who regularly hosts the show, appeared alongside V-Jump editor Victory Uchiha. The episode’s primary focus was the “Goku Best Bout Poll,” where fans globally voted for their favorite Goku battles. At the broadcast’s conclusion, Toyotaro made a remark that illuminates the future path of “Dragon Ball Super”:
“Seeing the poll results, including the Moro fight, was thrilling, but that’s just the beginning! I intend to keep crafting numerous exhilarating battles for fans to enjoy, so I hope everyone continues to follow my work!”
Although an official announcement about the exact return of “Dragon Ball Super” is still awaited, Toyotaro’s comments dispel uncertainty about the series’ future, affirming it will progress under his leadership.
Toyotaro to Lead Dragon Ball Super
Akira Toriyama’s Legacy Remains in Capable Hands
Fans had unofficial hints that “Dragon Ball Super” would be back, as its slot in V-Jump has been filled with Toyotaro’s special illustrations, labeled “Dragon Ball Super Interval Special,” suggesting a temporary hiatus. Nonetheless, unease lingered due to reports of a dispute over the Dragon Ball franchise’s rights following Toriyama’s passing.
Given the franchise’s profitability and the number of stakeholders involved—Toriyama’s heirs, publisher Shueisha, Toei for the anime, and Bandai for the merchandise—such disputes were anticipated. The primary concern was whether Toyotaro would be confirmed as the creative force behind “Dragon Ball Super.”
Toyotaro’s remarks at the broadcast’s end seem to quash those concerns. His comment referenced the final battle of the Moro Arc being ranked number 4 (number 2 among English-speaking fans), marking his first arc with full creative license from Toriyama. Clearly, fans valued his direction, and hopefully, his words indicate his official appointment to lead “Dragon Ball Super” into the post-Toriyama era.
Toyotaro’s Dedication and Passion Deserve Recognition
He Remains an Unwavering Dragon Ball Enthusiast
Toyotaro finds himself in a uniquely challenging position. Toriyama, as the franchise’s creator, owned parts of the rights and had ultimate creative control. Toyotaro was brought on as the artist for “Dragon Ball Super,” and although his role and creative freedom grew over time, he operated under Toriyama’s guidance. Therefore, his future with the series relies entirely on Shueisha and Toriyama’s heirs.
This differs from the situation with “Berserk,” where no initial plans existed to continue the series after Kentaro Miura’s death. Miura’s close friend, Kouji Mori, independently decided that “Berserk” needed a conclusion and proposed the idea to Studio Gaga. In contrast, “Dragon Ball” is a global multi-million dollar franchise, with its future decisions undoubtedly made at the top levels.
Nevertheless, fans will surely be delighted by Toyotaro’s remarks. While his style may not yet reach Toriyama’s heights, he is undeniably credited as a dedicated fan first and foremost. His storytelling choices have been lauded, and he has demonstrated an ability to steer the franchise in new directions while honoring its origins. Now, the anticipation builds for the official announcement of “Dragon Ball Super’s” return under Toyotaro’s leadership.
Sources: Dragon Ball Official
Dragon Ball Super
- Action
- Sci-Fi
- Animation
- Fantasy
Dragon Ball Super is a sequel to the original Dragon Ball series as well as the fan-favorite Dragon Ball Z anime. Dragon Ball Super takes place ten years after Majin Buu is defeated and follows Goku and his friends on all-new adventures. Much like its predecessors, Dragon Ball Super was praised throughout its 131 episodes.