The tragic passing of Satoru Gojo had a profound effect on the Jujutsu Kaisen fanbase, to say the least. Devoted fans held out hope that mangaka Gege Akutami would introduce a twist in the plot to revive the beloved character, highlighting the significant impact that fiction can have on real life and emphasizing the importance of not dismissing it as trivial.
Not only did fans grieve, but even the mangakas themselves faced hardships following this loss. Akutami, for instance, received threats from heartbroken fans, showcasing the emotional toll of losing a cherished character. Similarly, Kenjiro Hata, the creator of Fly Me to the Moon, personally experienced the shock from the chapter and found it necessary to take a break.
Why was Kenjiro Hata, the author of Fly Me to the Moon, affected by Jujutsu Kaisen 236?
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In chapter 236 of Jujutsu Kaisen, a surprising turn of events occurred with the unexpected death of Satoru Gojo. Known for his unbeatable strength and close to defeating Sukuna, this tragic moment was further intensified by its poetic narration within the setting. The chapter began by disorienting fans as they were greeted with a heartfelt conversation between Gojo and various characters, including Geto, Nanami, Haibara, and more. During this exchange, Gojo openly expressed his emotions and experiences.
MAPPA's depiction of Gojo and Sukuna
During their encounter, Gojo deeply regretted his inability to witness Sukuna unleashing his full power. Yet, he expressed gratitude for meeting his demise in the hands of the King of Curses. It wasn't until a later chapter of Jujutsu Kaisen that the lifeless body of Gojo was unveiled to the readers.
Fans' response to this death was so intense that some even constructed a memorial altar for the character at a train station. The news of Gojo's fate even reached those who were previously unfamiliar with the series.
Tsukasa and Nasa (Image via Seven Arcs)
Kenjiro Hata, the mangaka behind Fly Me to the Moon, was also deeply impacted by the event. In the 46th issue of Shogakukan's Weekly Shonen Sunday, it was revealed that Hata was so saddened by Gojo's death that he had to temporarily halt his own series until the 50th issue.
Given Hata's admiration for Jujutsu Kaisen and his frequent references to it in his work, it comes as no surprise that he was profoundly affected. It is common for readers to become emotionally invested in the stories and characters they consume.
What is Fly Me to the Moon about?
Nasa as seen in Fly Me to the Moon (Image via Seven Arcs)
Fly Me to the Moon by Kenjiro Hata tells the story of Nasa Yuzaki, a high school student deeply fascinated by outer space due to his unique name. One fateful day, everything changes when he meets a captivating girl named Tsukasa Tsukuyomi. Despite their brief encounter being cut short by a car accident, Nasa finds himself instantly smitten by her.
Soon after, Tsukasa surprises Nasa by suggesting that they get married. Overwhelmed with emotions, Nasa agrees to this unexpected proposal. However, just as quickly as she entered his life, Tsukasa mysteriously disappears, only to reappear on his 18th birthday.
Fly Me to the Moon, which was first published in Shogakukan's magazine Weekly Shonen Sunday in 2018, has reached a total of 25 tankobon volumes. The anime adaptation of the manga, titled Tonikawa: Over the Moon For You, has been produced by the studio Seven Arcs. The first season of the anime premiered in 2020, followed by the second season in 2023.