The passing of Dragon Ball creator Akira Toriyama shook the manga and entertainment world, with tributes pouring in from fans and industry figures alike. However, Toriyama’s former editors have voiced frustration over how his death was handled by Shueisha, the publisher behind Dragon Ball and Shonen Jump.
In a recent interview with Kazuhiko Torishima, Yu Kondo, and Fuyuto Takeda—three of Toriyama’s key editors—the trio expressed disappointment over Shueisha’s response. They criticized the publisher for failing to communicate properly about Toriyama’s death and not adequately recognizing his monumental contributions to the industry.
Editors express frustration over lack of communication and respect
How editors learned of Toriyama’s death 🧵17/n pic.twitter.com/HH9kg563pp — Enomis (@Venixys) March 24, 2025
Torishima, who played a major role in shaping Dragon Ball during its early years, shared that Shueisha’s announcement of Toriyama’s death was handled poorly.
He felt that the company’s acknowledgment lacked the gravity and respect that Toriyama’s legacy warranted. Kondo and Takeda echoed these concerns, adding that the lack of clear communication from Shueisha left fans and industry professionals in the dark during a sensitive moment.
Goku and Gohan (Credits: Akira Toriyama)
The editors also questioned whether Toriyama received the level of respect he deserved from the publisher, considering Dragon Ball’s cultural and financial impact. Toriyama’s work not only defined a generation of manga and anime fans but also influenced countless creators and helped globalize Japanese pop culture.
Implications for the future of the manga industry
Beyond their frustrations with Shueisha, the editors expressed deeper concerns about the future of the manga industry following Toriyama’s death. Torishima highlighted how Toriyama’s influence extended beyond his creative work, shaping the business and creative culture of manga production.
Goku (Credits: Akira Toriyama)
Kondo and Takeda warned that the mishandling of such a significant moment raises questions about how major publishers will treat influential creators in the future. They stressed the need for better communication, transparency, and recognition when it comes to honoring the legacy of industry giants.
Toriyama’s legacy remains undeniable, with Dragon Ball continuing to inspire new generations of fans and creators. However, the editors’ criticism of Shueisha underscores the importance of preserving the dignity and legacy of creators who have shaped the manga and anime industries.
Hunter x Hunter is set to make a notable appearance at this year’s Anime Expo in Los Angeles, United States, accompanied by one of Japan’s top girl groups, Sakurazaka46.
While details about the collaboration remain under wraps, the announcement has sparked excitement among fans of both the series and the musical group. The connection between Hunter x Hunter and Sakurazaka46 runs deep, adding a sentimental touch to this highly anticipated event.
Hunter x Hunter to feature at Anime Expo 2025 with Sakurazaka46
Kurapika, Gon, Killua, and Leorio (Credits: MadHouse)
The official website of Sakurazaka46 recently confirmed that the group will be performing at Anime Expo 2025, marking their first-ever live performance in the United States.
Their participation will be part of the J-POP SOUND CAPSULE @AX2025 Anisong World Matsuri Returns! music festival, where top Japanese artists like FLOW, GRANRODEO, TOGENASHI TOGEARI, Hiroshi Kitadani, and ASTERISM will also perform. The event will take place from July 4 to July 7, 2025, at the Los Angeles Convention Center.
🚨 Togashi fez uma ilustração para presentear a idol Yumiko Seki, integrante do grupo Sakurazaka46! pic.twitter.com/EDiw6bmrIc — Portal Hunter x Hunter (@portalhxh) November 14, 2023
The collaboration between Sakurazaka46 and Hunter x Hunter remains a mystery, but it is expected to be a special highlight of the festival. While it’s unlikely to be an announcement about the return of the Hunter x Hunter anime, fans are hopeful for exciting news related to the manga or a special project tied to the series.
Long-standing bond between Sakurazaka46 and Hunter x Hunter
Yoshihiro Togashi (Credits: MadHouse)
Sakurazaka46 has a deep connection with Hunter x Hunter, especially through former member Yumiko Seki, a devoted fan of the series. Seki’s admiration for Hunter x Hunter was recognized by series creator Yoshihiro Togashi, who personally signed a Killua illustration for her and answered 11 of her questions during a talk show. Togashi shared insights about the series’ potential endings and the inspiration behind pivotal moments such as Meruem and Komugi’s final scene.
Sakurazaka46 will be collaborating with Hunter x Hunter at Anime Expo 2025 for the welcoming ceremony. pic.twitter.com/bYfyxEitlc — Hunter x Hunter (@TheHxHSource) March 24, 2025
Moreover, Sakurazaka46’s song Start over! was featured in a Hunter x Hunter manga animation on Shonen Jump’s official YouTube channel, further cementing the connection between the group and the franchise. Togashi’s admiration for the group was also reflected in Hunter x Hunter chapter 393, where he recreated a scene from one of their shows.
Given this mutual appreciation, the upcoming collaboration at Anime Expo is rooted in genuine respect and creative synergy between Sakurazaka46 and Togashi. Whether the collaboration involves a new theme song, a tribute performance, or a special manga-related announcement, fans have every reason to anticipate something remarkable.
