Los Angeles, CA – Toonami, the popular anime programming block, has announced a special marathon this weekend to honor the legacy of Akira Toriyama, the renowned creator of Dragon Ball Z. The marathon, scheduled for Saturday, March 16, will feature a lineup dedicated to Dragon Ball Z Kai, a revamped version of the classic anime series.
The marathon, running from 2am to 5:30am ET, will showcase the first eight episodes of Dragon Ball Z Kai. This special event serves as a tribute to Akira Toriyama, who sadly passed away earlier this month at the age of 68. Toriyama, known for his groundbreaking work in the anime and gaming industries, left behind a remarkable legacy with Dragon Ball Z being one of his most beloved creations.
Dragon Ball Z Kai first premiered in 2009 as a reimagined version of the original series released to commemorate its 20th anniversary. The reboot not only featured re-cut episodes but also improved visuals, animation, and re-recorded dialogue, offering fans a fresh take on the iconic series.
While some fans may question the choice of Dragon Ball Z Kai over the original anime, which aired in the late ’90s, the decision likely stems from the fact that Dragon Ball Z Kai closely follows Toriyama’s manga, eliminating much of the anime-exclusive content found in the original series. The marathon aims to highlight Toriyama’s vision and storytelling in a faithful adaptation that resonates with both new and longtime fans.
In a review of the DVD for season one, part one of Dragon Ball Z Kai, IGN praised the re-edited series for its impressive technical aspects and streamlined storytelling, making it more accessible and exciting for viewers. The marathon not only celebrates Toriyama’s enduring influence on the anime world but also provides an opportunity for fans to revisit or discover the magic of Dragon Ball Z Kai.
As Toonami prepares to air the special marathon, fans can anticipate a night dedicated to honoring the genius of Akira Toriyama and the timeless legacy of Dragon Ball Z. The event promises to be a fitting tribute to a visionary creator whose impact on the world of anime will continue to resonate for years to come.