The funny story of how Akira Toriyama suddenly came up with Trunks' backstory and why he named him based on undergarments

The funny story of how Akira Toriyama suddenly came up with Trunks' backstory and why he named him based on undergarments

It's been over 30 years since Trunks first appeared in chapter 331 of the Weekly Shōnen Jump series Dragon Ball Z on July 2, 1991. The chapter was titled "The Young Boy of Mystery." Needless to say, Trunks' sudden appearance in the story had quite the impact on the direction of the story. Though he was effortless able to take Frieza down, he warned of an even greater threat that would be presented in a few years' time.

“Dragon Ball Can’t End!”: How Fuji TV’s Panic Forced Toei to Create GT And Divided Fans Forever - Anime Senpai

If you’ve ever wondered why Dragon Ball GT exists or why it feels so different from Dragon Ball Z, the real history behind has finally come to light and it’s a lot less about creative passion and more about behind-the-scenes pressure.

In a recent episode of the KosoKoso podcast, three ex-editors of "Dragon Ball" — Kazuhiko Torishima, Yu Kondo and Fuyuto Takeda — spoke about the moments of uncertainty and pressures they experienced when Akira Toriyama was considering finishing the series.