Yoshihiro Togashi, legendary creator ofHunter x HunterandYuYu Hakusho, is notorious for prolonged breaks from his work. Over the years, he has faced significant health challenges, specifically debilitating back pain that often renders him unable to sit, draw, or concentrate for extended periods. In recent interviews, Togashi has been candid about how his physical condition impacts his creative process, necessitating frequent and sometimes lengthy hiatuses. While it is frustrating to see the story delayed repeatedly, these breaks are essential for his well-being and the quality of his work.
For those unfamiliar with Togashi, he is one of the most influential mangaka in the industry. His storytelling blendsdetailed world-building as evidenced byHunter x Hunter, complicated characters, and innovative battle mechanics. His works have left an indelible mark on anime and manga, withHunter x Hunterin particular being celebrated for its unpredictable narrative twists and morally ambiguous characters. Despite his towering reputation, Togashi’s career has been marked by a pattern of recurring hiatuses that have fueled both admiration and frustration among his devoted audience. Despite these delays,the quality of Togashi’s work never falters, and other authors could learn from his self-advocacy.
Togashi’s Medical Leave Is Nothing New
The Mangaka Rightfully Prioritizes Self-care Over Publishing Deadlines
Togashi’s history of hiatuses dates back to the early 2000s, shortly afterHunter x Hunterbegan serialization inWeekly Shōnen Jump. Health issues were cited as the primary reason for his absences, though he also admitted to feeling creatively drained. In 2018, he took his longest break, lasting nearly four years, during which the manga’s production schedule became virtually nonexistent.Despite speculation that the manga might never be completed, Togashi always returns, bringing with him story arcs that are sharper and more inventive than ever before.
Togashi’s commitment to only working when he can give 100% reflects his dedication to quality. In an industry where tight deadlines often lead to burnout and rushed storytelling, his decision to prioritize health and creativity is a refreshing contrast. This approach not only benefits Togashi but also preserves the integrity ofHunter x Hunter, ensuring that each chapter lives up to the high standards he has set for himself and his readers. That unwillingness to compromise has also prevented Togashi’s anime adaptations from suffering through half-hearted filler arcs, asBleachmost infamously resorted to during Tite Kubo’s manga bottleneck.
Fans Choose Togashi’s Well-being Over his Work
The Genius of Hunter X Hunter Can’t Be Rushed
Fans have largely rallied around Togashi, offering unwavering support during his recuperation. Social media is flooded with messages of encouragement whenever he announces a hiatus, and many have expressed admiration for his self-care. Togashi’s candidness about his medical issues, includingtheHunter x Huntercreator’s recent surgeryto alleviate chronic pain, has also humanized him in the eyes of fans. Rather than viewing his absences as a nuisance, many now see them as a necessary part of his journey as both an artist and a person. This empathy reflects an audience that not only admires Togashi’s storytelling but absorbs his message about humanity therein.
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These extended breaks, while disruptive, ultimately serve as a creative reset for Togashi. Instead of consistently churning out content at the expense of his health or artistic vision, Togashi takes the time he needs to recharge, both physically and mentally. This tactic ensures that when he does return, his work is as meticulously crafted and as compelling as the audience has come to expect. For example, the Chimera Ant and Succession War arcs, both written after lengthy breaks, are widely regarded as some ofthe most ambitious and sophisticated storytelling in manga history.
The End Results Are Always Worth the Wait
Togashi Usually Returns from Hiatus on a Hot Streak
Togashi’s health experiences might even inspire futureHunter x Hunterchapters. The series often explores themes ofresilience, survival, and overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds—all of which parallel his personal struggles. His most recent surgery was performed under local anesthesia, which allowed Togashi to remain awake and discuss the operation with the surgeon. This immediately evokes images of Pitou healing Meruem with Doctor Blythe, suggesting that Togashi’s lived experiences shape his work and help him process the physical and emotional trauma of surgery. It will be interesting to see if future chapters of the manga incorporate this most recent surgical experience
These hiatuses are a testament to Togashi’s unique approach to storytelling and unwavering commitment to his craft. While the wait can be excruciating, it’s a small price to pay for the masterful work that Togashi consistently delivers. By embracing the breaks as part of the process, the audience also signals to the extremely demanding manga industry that quality will always triumph over deadlines.Hunter X Hunteris complex enough to warrant repeated reading/viewing experiences, so extra time between chapters for the audience to reexamine key details ahead of the next edition is actually a blessing.
The More Time to Digest Hunter X Hunter the Better
The Story is Far Deeper than Most Realize the First Time Around
Personally, the “extra time is a blessing” sentiment applies perfectly. I loveHunter X Hunter, and I’m deeply invested in the fantasy world Togashi has built, specifically how it mirrors our own increasingly surreal world. However,I am woefully behind on my evergrowing reading list, and I have about 50 chapters of manga to catch up on in this series alone. Add in the complex nature of the Succession War and its vast ensemble of characters, and you can see why I cherish Togashi’s extended leaves of absence.
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Of course, I worry that this brilliant story will never be completed, it’s too well-written to be left unfinished. Even Togashi himself has a fewcontingency plansin case of that unfortunate outcome, so it’s not unwarranted to be concerned about a cliffhanger. However, an ending that only comes at the sacrifice of Togashi’s health and well-being or precious time with his family, would never feel right.Hunter X Hunterhas already given me so much emotional fulfillment, I can’t ask Togashi for anything more.
Hunter X Hunter
Hunter × Hunteris a Japanese manga and anime franchise created by Yoshihiro Togashi. The story follows Gon Freecss, a boy who discovers his father is a legendary Hunter, and embarks on a journey to become one himself. Along the way, he encounters friends and foes in a world filled with martial arts, adventure, and paranormal elements. The franchise spans manga, multiple anime adaptations, films, OVAs, and video games.
