The world of manga and anime mourns the loss of a legendary creator as Akira Toriyama, the mastermind behind the iconic 'Dragon Ball' series, has passed away at the age of 68.

According to reports from the British media outlet BBC, Toriyama's production team confirmed the sad news on social media, revealing that the acclaimed artist succumbed to an acute subdural hematoma, a severe form of bleeding near the brain.

Toriyama's departure occurred on Friday (March 1), in line with his final wish, he was laid to rest surrounded by his family and close relatives.

Throughout his illustrious career spanning over four decades, Toriyama made an indelible mark on the manga and anime industry, leaving behind a legacy that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

His magnum opus, the 'Dragon Ball' series, which debuted in 1984, remains a cultural phenomenon, cherished by fans of all ages across the globe. The manga has achieved unparalleled success, becoming one of the highest-rated and most beloved series in the world of comics.

In 2022, Toriyama's creative genius reached new heights with the release of 'Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero', the franchise's most successful film to date. The movie shattered box office records, grossing a staggering $1.25 billion worldwide, further cementing Toriyama's legacy as a visionary storyteller.

Until his final moments, Toriyama remained actively engaged in his craft, working on various projects, including the ongoing 'Dragon Ball Super' manga and the highly anticipated new Dragon Ball anime, 'Dragon Ball: Daima'.

As fans and industry peers alike mourn the loss of a true pioneer, Akira Toriyama's enduring legacy will continue to inspire generations of manga and anime enthusiasts for years to come.