World of comics and cartoons mourning the death of Akira Toriyama , the creator of "Dragon Ball". The mangaka passed away at the age of 68 due to a brain hemorrhage. The disappearance dates back to March 1st, but the news was released only after a week on social media by the publishing house and its production studio.
His entry into the Olympus of the big names came in 1984, when the story of "his" Goku was launched all over the world, immediately enjoying sensational success. From there an empire was born, including merchandising, gadgets, soundtracks, video games and an endless series of cartoons.
Its volumes have sold more than 260 million copies , making it one of the best-known manga ever. «It is with deep regret that we announce his passing. We know that he still had several works in production with his usual great enthusiasm," read a statement on the website of the publisher, Shueisha. Born in Aichi Prefecture, central Japan, Toriyama made his debut in 1978, gaining popularity after the release of his manga "Dr. Slump", serialized in the weekly Shukan Shonen Jump in 1980 and for which he won the Shōgakukan Award, one of most prestigious in the country.
(Unioneonline/vf)
