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Who Owns Dragon Ball Z?

Who Owns Dragon Ball Z? | DBZ Store Dragon Ball Z Logo

Dragon Ball Z, or DBZ for short, is a popular Japanese anime and manga series that has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. Created by Akira Toriyama, the franchise has become a global phenomenon and has spawned numerous spin-offs, movies, video games, and merchandise.

But who exactly owns the rights to Dragon Ball Z? Let's delve into the ownership of this beloved franchise.

Akira Toriyama: The Creator

Akira Toriyama, a Japanese manga artist, is the original creator of Dragon Ball Z. He first introduced the world to the Dragon Ball universe in 1984 with the release of the Dragon Ball manga series. Toriyama's unique storytelling and iconic character designs quickly garnered a dedicated fanbase.

While Toriyama may be the creative genius behind Dragon Ball Z, he does not solely own the franchise. Like many creators in the entertainment industry, Toriyama sold the rights to his creation to a larger entity.

Shueisha: The Publisher

Shueisha, a Japanese publishing company, currently holds the rights to the Dragon Ball manga series. Founded in 1925, Shueisha has become one of Japan's largest publishers, specializing in manga, magazines, and books.

Shueisha played a crucial role in the success of Dragon Ball Z by publishing the original manga series, which served as the foundation for the anime adaptation and subsequent merchandise. The company continues to oversee the licensing and distribution of Dragon Ball Z-related content.

Toei Animation: The Anime Studio

Toei Animation, a Japanese animation studio, is responsible for bringing Dragon Ball Z to life on the small screen. Founded in 1948, Toei Animation has produced and distributed numerous popular anime series, including Sailor Moon and One Piece.

Under the guidance of Akira Toriyama, Toei Animation adapted the Dragon Ball manga series into the Dragon Ball Z anime. The partnership between Toriyama and Toei Animation gave birth to one of the most iconic and influential anime series of all time.

Funimation: The North American Distributor

When it comes to the distribution of Dragon Ball Z in North America, Funimation takes the reins. Funimation Entertainment, LLC is an American entertainment company specializing in the localization and distribution of anime and other Japanese entertainment properties.

Funimation acquired the rights to Dragon Ball Z in 1995, bringing the series to a whole new audience in North America. Their English-language dub and distribution efforts significantly contributed to the popularity and widespread recognition of Dragon Ball Z in the Western market.

Merchandising Partners

Dragon Ball Z's massive popularity has given rise to a wide range of merchandise, from action figures to clothing and collectibles. Various companies have secured licensing deals to produce and distribute Dragon Ball Z merchandise around the world.

As an E-commerce store specializing in Dragon Ball Z merchandise, DBZ Store is one of the go-to destinations for fans looking to purchase official and high-quality Dragon Ball Z products. With an extensive collection of clothing, accessories, home decor, and more, DBZ Store offers fans the opportunity to showcase their love for the franchise in style. Be sure to check out their incredible selection at https://dbz-store.com/.

The Future of Dragon Ball Z

Dragon Ball Z's popularity shows no signs of waning, and its ownership structure ensures that the franchise will continue to thrive for years to come. While Akira Toriyama may have created the world of Dragon Ball Z, it is the collective efforts of Shueisha, Toei Animation, Funimation, and various merchandising partners that have propelled the franchise to new heights.

As fans eagerly anticipate new Dragon Ball Z content, whether it be manga chapters, anime episodes, or exciting merchandise releases, it is clear that the ownership of Dragon Ball Z is a collaborative effort that brings joy to millions of fans worldwide.

So, the next time you're searching for Dragon Ball Z merchandise, remember that DBZ Store is your one-stop shop for all things DBZ. Visit their store today and join the global community of passionate Dragon Ball Z fans!

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