The revelations of Akira Toriyama about Vegeta—one of the most iconic characters in Dragon Ball—are truly surprising. It is not uncommon for fans to hear an author express strong emotional sentiments towards a central character like Vegeta. This indicates that not all creators necessarily favor every aspect of their own creations.
Toriyama’s choice to make Piccolo a beloved supporting character, while simultaneously admitting his lack of fondness for Vegeta, presents a unique perspective on the creative process and the complexities inherent in the relationship between the creator and their work.
In a 1995 interview, the creator of Dragon Ball confirmed that Vegeta consistently faced setbacks throughout the narrative. Toriyama’s admission of his dislike for Vegeta during the 1995 interview suggests a clear contrast between his personal feelings and the character’s role within the story.
Vegeta, the Saiyan prince, is a character who has undergone significant transformation throughout the series, evolving into a prominent figure known for both his ruthlessness and fame. His rivalry with Goku serves as a critical element in Dragon Ball Z. It is indeed difficult to imagine Toriyama not having an appreciation for him. However, Vegeta’s beneficial role in the storyline cannot be overlooked, especially when considering his popularity among fans.
Toriyama’s emotional ties to Vegeta seem to contrast with the long-standing narrative of the character facing continuous adversity throughout the series. This narrative arc involves Vegeta frequently being outmatched, despite his immense power. This motif persists in Dragon Ball Super, indicating that Toriyama has continued to maintain a consistent approach to the character.
Let’s take a moment to reflect on the development of Toriyama’s perception of Vegeta over the years. Since that 1995 interview, Dragon Ball has gained immense popularity, and Vegeta has become a widely beloved character globally. This shift may have influenced Toriyama’s perspective on Vegeta, particularly considering his contributions to the success of the franchise.
However, for many fans, Toriyama’s admission of not liking Vegeta serves as an explanation for the continuous struggles faced by this character.
