“He was ultimately not suited for the part”: Akira Toriyama Almost Made Goku Pass the Torch in Dragon Ball Before Changing His Mind
The Dragon Ball series is arguably one of the most iconic animes that has ever existed. From having one of the most beloved protagonists, Son Goku, to some of the most iconic villains, the Dragon Ball series, for many, has always been very close to heart. And Akira Toriyama can take all the credit for it.
However, given how popular the show has been over the past few decades, there was a time when Akira Toriyama himself wanted a total change in the trajectory of the iconic series, by making Gohan the main protagonist of the show. He would explain his plan during an interview in the Dragon Ball Daizenshuu 2: Story Guide.
Akira Toriyama explains the reason for keeping Goku as the lead for the Dragon Ball Series
Gohan, ever since his first introduction in the series, has always been portrayed as someone with the potential to surpass anyone in the series. From the iconic headbutt that shattered the armor of Raditz, to ascending past Super Saiyan in his fight against Perfect Cell, to his fight against Buu. It was quite obvious that Gohan was meant to take the torch from the beloved Son Goku.
It was undeniable that Gohan had what it took to take the torch from Goku, and it was obvious that Akira Toriyama was struggling to find a way to make the transition go as smoothly as possible. However, given how most fans had watched Goku from the start of the Dragon Ball series, they were certainly not into the idea of letting Goku go just yet.
During an interview in the Dragon Ball Daizenshuu 2: Story Guide, Akira Toriyama went on to comment on why he finally decided not to pass on the torch. He stated;
I intended to put Gohan into the leading role. It didn’t work out. I felt that compared to Goku, he was ultimately not suited for the part.
Akira Toriyama proved that the main protagonist of the show certainly does not need to have a tragic or complicated past to get over to the fans. His creation of Son Goku certainly is a testament to that. And the fans still can’t get enough of the Saiyan raised on Earth since Dragon Ball’s anime release back in 1986.
What makes Son Goku one of the most loved protagonists in Anime?
A protagonist that people can relate to: Unlike some brooding, tortured heroes, Goku is refreshingly straightforward, as he loves to fight, train, and eat. We can connect with his desire to constantly improve and his childlike wonder at the challenges he faces. Given that he was born to be a Saiyan warrior with immeasurable power, his core personality remaining grounded and relatable makes fans fall for Goku even more.
A protagonist with unwavering optimism: No matter how dire the situation seems, Goku always approaches it with a smile and a “can-do” attitude. Even when faced with seemingly unbeatable enemies, Goku never gives up hope or even shows any ounce of concern about losing. It definitely serves as a reminder to us that having determination can overcome any odds.
A protagonist who evolves but stays true to himself: Goku undergoes significant growth throughout the series. Goku throughout the series matures, becomes a father, and learns valuable lessons about responsibility and sacrifice. However, his core personality, his optimism, love of fighting, and unwavering sense of justice remain constant. He evolves without losing what makes him Goku, a character we can root for throughout his journey.
You can stream the Dragon Ball series on Crunchyroll.
