The character design of Gojo Satoru from Jujutsu Kaisen draws heavy inspiration from the iconic character Kakashi Hatake in Naruto. While it may be hard to believe for some, it’s the truth.
Similar to many creative individuals in the entertainment industry, the authors of manga often look back at their favorite works from childhood, blending certain elements into their own creations.
The manga and anime series Naruto has inspired countless people worldwide, and its influence can be seen in various other brands. A recent example is the film Creed III, directed by Michael B. Jordan, which features scenes that evoke the spirit of Naruto.
The current work, Jujutsu Kaisen, also contains details inspired by Naruto. The author, Akutami Gege, has openly admitted to being a fan of Naruto. This influence is evident in some of the most famous characters in Jujutsu Kaisen, especially in how they mirror characters from Naruto.
When looking at Gojo Satoru’s character design in Jujutsu Kaisen, one can’t help but think of Kakashi Hatake from Naruto. Both characters share many similarities: they are both teachers, wear masks concealing their faces, and possess distinct personalities. However, if you think Kakashi is the primary inspiration behind Gojo, you might be mistaken.
In fact, Gojo Satoru was not inspired by Kakashi but rather by another character that many fans of Naruto may not remember.
Akutami Gege, the author of Jujutsu Kaisen, participated in an interview with Naruto creator Kishimoto. This interview was published in the “Jujutsu Kaisen Official Fanbook,” where Akutami answered some intriguing questions from Naruto fans.
During the interview, Akutami dismissed the idea that Kakashi was the inspiration behind Gojo, revealing that the true source of inspiration actually comes from a character named Tobitake Tonbo.
Tobitake Tonbo appears during the second round of the Chunin Exams in Naruto, and at first, Akutami didn’t even remember his name. However, the Jujutsu Kaisen author acknowledged that this character had a significant impact on creating Gojo.
If you are unfamiliar with Tobitake Tonbo, you’re not alone. When Akutami met Kishimoto, he inquired about Tonbo’s design, and even Kishimoto did not recall the existence of this character.
So, who is Tobitake Tonbo?
Tobitake Tonbo is a Chunin and a member of the Analysis Team from the Konoha Intelligence Division. He covers his face with a mask much like Gojo in Jujutsu Kaisen 0. Similarly, like Gojo Satoru, he exudes a fair amount of confidence in his abilities and strength. Both characters also rarely let opportunities slip by to evaluate a worthy opponent.
Additionally, author Gege Akutami has openly acknowledged the influence of Tobitake Tonbo through the design of Gojo’s character.
In episode 3 of Jujutsu Kaisen Season 2, when Toji interacts with Kid Gojo, Gojo is seen wearing a yukata adorned with a pattern of dragonflies. The name “Tonbo,” derived from Tobitake Tonbo, is written as 蛍 in Japanese, which means “dragonfly” in English.
