On March 1, 2024, Akira Toriyama, a renowned Japanese manga artist and character designer, passed away at the age of 68. Born on April 5, 1955 in Nagoya, Japan, Toriyama showed an early interest in art and comics, and spent much of his childhood drawing and creating his own stories. After completing high school, he pursued a career in manga and went on to make significant contributions to the industry. Toriyama's work first gained recognition in the early 1980s with the publication of his manga series, "Dr. Slump." However, it was his later work, "Dragon Ball," that truly established him as a household name. "Dragon Ball" was a massive success, both in Japan and internationally, and is considered one of the most influential and popular manga of all time. The series has been adapted into multiple anime series, films, and video games, solidifying Toriyama's impact on popular culture. Throughout his career, Toriyama's distinctive style and unique storytelling captivated audiences and won him numerous accolades. He was the recipient of several prestigious awards, including the Shogakukan Manga Award, Tezuka Osamu Cultural Prize, and Eisner Award. Aside from his work in manga, Toriyama also collaborated on character designs for several video games, such as "Dragon Quest," "Chrono Trigger," and "Blue Dragon." His designs continue to inspire and influence generations of artists. Toriyama was a private and humble individual who shied away from the limelight, preferring to let his work speak for itself. He will be remembered as a talented artist and storyteller, whose contributions to the world of manga and anime will live on for years to come. He is survived by his wife, son, and countless fans who will forever cherish his creations. May he rest in peace.