Dragon Ball has undergone numerous transformations since the debut of Goku in Weekly Shōnen Jump. The franchise has expanded through various media, including animated series, films, video games, and even a poorly received live-action movie. Despite these changes, the series has maintained its identity, with Goku consistently at the forefront as the beloved Saiyan hero. Other characters, like Gohan during the Cell and Buu Sagas, have temporarily stepped into the spotlight, but Goku has always reclaimed his status as the main protagonist.
Interestingly, Akira Toriyama, the brilliant mind behind the franchise, once expressed a desire for a different character to lead the series. While Dragon Ball boasts an impressive roster of iconic characters capable of thrilling adventures, including Gohan and Piccolo—who had significant roles in 2022’s Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero—Toriyama revealed in a 1995 interview that he envisioned Hercule as the protagonist if he were to create a new series.
Akira Toriyama Imagined Hercule as the Lead Character
Could Dragon Ball’s Comedic Relief Character Have Led the Series?
In a surprising revelation, Toriyama noted that Hercule, the self-proclaimed champion, could have taken on the lead role in a new Dragon Ball series. Although Hercule evolved into a fan-favorite during the Majin Buu Saga, his potential as a primary hero raises intriguing questions. His character’s humorous nature highlights the essential role comedy played in Toriyama’s storytelling approach.
The Underrated Comedy of Dragon Ball
Staying True to His Gag Manga Origins
Dragon Ball is predominantly celebrated for its thrilling battles and memorable action sequences. While it excels in serious moments, Akira Toriyama has successfully maintained the series’ comedic essence. Beginning his career with the gag manga Dr. Slump in 1980, Toriyama skillfully integrated humor into his narrative, even as he transitioned into action-oriented storytelling with Dragon Ball.
This balance of comedy and action was particularly evident during the Majin Buu Saga. Characters like Gotenks showcased zany techniques such as the Kamikaze Ghost Attack, while Hercule’s antics added levity when he found himself in comedic predicaments. Toriyama’s penchant for humor suggests that even a series centered around Hercule could have been entertaining, weaving in comedy and showcasing the champion’s uniquely quirky charm.
A Potential Hercule Spin-Off: A Unique Direction
An Opportunity for Laughter in Dragon Ball’s Universe
If Hercule were to assume the role of the protagonist, it’s plausible that the series would shift away from intense action sequences. Although Hercule is one of the strongest humans within the lore, fans might be more accustomed to the spectacular battles that define Dragon Ball. Instead, a light-hearted, comedy-focused narrative exploring the daily lives of Hercule and Majin Buu could capture both humor and charisma, delighting fans with their clashing dynamics.
The world of Dragon Ball has embraced eccentricities over the last forty years, making the idea of a Hercule-centered sequel both intriguing and amusing. While Toriyama ultimately chose not to move forward with this concept, fans remain grateful for his return in the ongoing Dragon Ball Super, which continues to deliver adventures that resonate with audiences.
Source: Dragon Ball Daizenshuu 4 (translation by Kanzenshuu)