Why Do People Say Dragon Ball Gt Not Canon
Quip SilverDragon Ball GT has long been a topic of debate among fans of the Dragon Ball franchise. While it was produced as an official sequel to Dragon Ball Z, many fans and critics often question its place within the official storyline, or "canon," of the Dragon Ball universe. This article explores the reasons behind why many consider Dragon Ball GT not to be part of the main canon, examining the production background, narrative choices, and the influence of creator intent. Understanding these factors helps clarify why GT is viewed differently compared to other entries like Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z.
Background and Production of Dragon Ball GT
To understand why many fans see Dragon Ball GT as non-canon, it’s important to look at its origins. Dragon Ball GT was produced by Toei Animation and aired from 1996 to 1997. Unlike the original Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z series, which were based directly on Akira Toriyama’s manga, GT was created without direct involvement from the manga’s creator. It was conceived as a sequel series specifically for television, rather than a continuation of the manga storyline.
Initially, the series was commissioned as an "adventure" series following Dragon Ball Z. It was developed by Toei and a team of writers who crafted a story that diverged significantly from the manga’s narrative. Akira Toriyama, the original creator, was involved only peripherally, primarily providing character designs and some basic concepts but not dictating the story’s direction. This separation from Toriyama’s original source material is a key factor that influences the perception of GT’s canon status.
Differences in Storyline and Narrative Direction
One of the main reasons fans consider Dragon Ball GT non-canonical is its divergence from the original manga and Dragon Ball Z continuity. The story of GT begins several years after the events of Dragon Ball Z, with Goku turned back into a child by the Black Star Dragon Balls. The series follows Goku and his friends as they travel across space to retrieve the Dragon Balls and face new enemies.
While Dragon Ball Z continued the saga of Goku’s battle against powerful foes like Frieza, Cell, and Majin Buu, GT introduces entirely new storylines, characters, and concepts that are not rooted in the manga. For example, the introduction of Super Saiyan 4 and the Shadow Dragons marked significant departures from established lore. These elements were created specifically for GT and are not referenced in the manga, leading many to see GT as an alternate universe or "what-if" series rather than an integral part of the main storyline.
Creator’s Perspective and Official Stance
Akira Toriyama’s involvement in Dragon Ball GT was limited. He provided character designs and some ideas but did not oversee the story development. In interviews, Toriyama has expressed that he was not particularly involved in GT and did not consider it his official work. Instead, he viewed it more as a spin-off or side story.
Toriyama’s own comments have been influential in shaping fan perceptions. He stated that GT was created by the Toei staff without his direct input, and he did not see it as part of the original manga’s continuity. This distinction is crucial because, in many franchise universes, creator endorsement significantly influences what is considered canon. Since Toriyama did not endorse GT as part of the main storyline, fans and analysts often regard it as non-canonical.
Canon vs. Non-Canon in Franchise Narratives
In large multimedia franchises like Dragon Ball, the concept of "canon" is often complex. Typically, the original manga or creator-approved works are considered canonical, forming the official storyline. Spin-offs, movies, or series produced without the original creator’s direct input can sometimes be viewed as alternate universes, side stories, or non-canonical additions.
Within the Dragon Ball franchise, the manga authored by Akira Toriyama is universally regarded as the primary canon. The anime series Dragon Ball, Dragon Ball Z, and the movies are generally considered part of the canon, although some movies and special episodes are sometimes viewed as non-canonical or "what-if" stories. In this context, Dragon Ball GT, created without Toriyama’s direct involvement, is often classified as a non-canonical extension or alternate universe.
Fan Reception and Popularity
Fan reception has played a significant role in how GT is perceived within the Dragon Ball universe. While some fans appreciate GT for its unique characters, creative transformations, and exciting battles, others criticize it for its inconsistent storytelling, characterization, and departure from the manga’s tone.
Some fans argue that GT’s narrative choices, such as the introduction of Super Saiyan 4 and the Shadow Dragons, feel disconnected from the original series’ themes. Others feel that the series lacks the depth and emotional resonance of Dragon Ball Z, further undermining its status as part of the main storyline. The mixed reception has contributed to the perception that GT is more of an alternate universe or "what-if" series rather than an essential part of the Dragon Ball saga.
The Impact of Dragon Ball Super
In recent years, the release of Dragon Ball Super has further influenced perceptions of GT. Super is an officially sanctioned continuation of the Dragon Ball story, with direct involvement from Akira Toriyama. It is considered the official sequel to Dragon Ball Z, restoring some of the continuity and themes from the original manga.
Many fans view Super as the true successor to Dragon Ball Z, rendering GT even more peripheral. Since Super directly involves Toriyama and aligns more closely with the manga, GT’s non-canonical status has become more entrenched in fan discussions.
Conclusion
In summary, the primary reasons why people say Dragon Ball GT is not canon stem from its production background, narrative divergence from the original manga, limited involvement from Akira Toriyama, and its status within the broader franchise universe. While GT remains an entertaining series with its own unique characters and moments, it is generally regarded as a side story or alternate universe rather than a core part of the Dragon Ball storyline.
Understanding these distinctions helps fans appreciate GT for what it is—an unofficial extension of the franchise created by Toei Animation—and recognize why the official canon continues to be centered around Akira Toriyama’s manga and subsequent series like Dragon Ball Super. Ultimately, whether you enjoy GT or not, it remains a fascinating chapter in the history of Dragon Ball, reflecting the franchise’s expansive and diverse storytelling universe.
Disclaimer: Articles are Written by Humans, AI or Both. Verify Important Information.
Quip Silver
Quip Silver is where conversations, connections and experiences take centre stage. Through reflections on social interactions, communication and everyday encounters, our team explores the nuances of how we connect with one another and shares insights to inspire more meaningful and authentic interactions.
