In a world where superhero tales dominate the landscape of both manga and anime, few stories have captured the hearts and minds of fans quite like My Hero Academia.
Since its debut in 2014, the series has become a cultural phenomenon, enthralling audiences with its blend of action, emotion, and unique characters.
However, every epic tale must come to an end. Creator Kohei Horikoshi has announced that the saga of Izuku Midoriya, known as Deku, will conclude in just five more chapters, marking the end of an era for many dedicated fans.
Contents
A Decade of Heroism
My Hero Academia first appeared in the pages of Weekly Shonen Jump on July 7, 2014.
From the imaginative mind of Kohei Horikoshi, the series has grown into a massive success, amassing 425 chapters and 40 collected volumes.
The journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, with three spin-off manga series, several light novels, and a successful anime adaptation that has expanded the universe in various captivating ways.
Horikoshi’s announcement of the series’ impending conclusion came via social media, where he expressed his gratitude and shared his reflections on the journey.
“Sorry for taking two weeks off! My schedule got all mixed up and it ended up like a Mille-feuille! There are only 5 episodes left.
You may be thinking ‘What? Five more chapters?’, or ‘Only five more to go?’, but we’ll do our best to make the next five chapters enjoyable for both the fans, Deku and everyone!” he wrote.
The Final Countdown
The final chapter of My Hero Academia is set to be released in the combined Issue 36/37 of Weekly Shonen Jump on August 5, 2024.
This date is already marked in the calendars of fans worldwide, who are eagerly awaiting the conclusion of a story that has been a significant part of their lives for nearly a decade.
Horikoshi’s message to the fans was heartfelt and nostalgic.
“It was a little rocky at times, but I was able to draw Deku and the others for nearly 10 years thanks to all of you who continued to read the series.
It was nothing more than a dream. Thank you from the bottom of my heart! And with that, I’ll see you again in the next issue of Jump!”
The Story That Captivated Millions
For those unfamiliar with the series, My Hero Academia follows the story of Izuku Midoriya, a middle school student who dreams of becoming a hero despite being born without any powers in a world where nearly everyone has superhuman abilities, known as “quirks.”
His life changes dramatically after an encounter with All Might, the world’s greatest hero, who sees potential in Izuku and helps him enroll in the prestigious U.A. High School for budding heroes.
This narrative struck a chord with readers and viewers alike, as it combines the classic underdog story with a richly developed world and an extensive cast of compelling characters.
The manga’s success translated seamlessly into its anime adaptation, which has produced seven seasons to date, with a fourth original film currently in production at Studio Bones.
Fans’ Emotional Farewell
The announcement of the series’ conclusion has stirred a mix of emotions among its dedicated fanbase.
Social media platforms are flooded with messages of disbelief, nostalgia, and heartfelt tributes.
“My Hero Academia ending is so surreal, this series has been with me since middle school,” wrote one Twitter user, encapsulating the sentiment of many.
Another fan shared, “My Hero Academia is ending in 5 chapters and it feels surreal. Since I started watching seasonal anime it’s always been there – I remember waking up every Saturday and watching S1/2 episodes before work.
Obviously, the anime’s still airing but it’s end of an era stuff.”
A third simply stated, “No words just tears,” highlighting the deep emotional connection fans have developed with the series over the years.
The Legacy of My Hero Academia
As the manga draws to a close, the seventh season of the anime continues to air, showcasing the thrilling adventures of Izuku Midoriya and his classmates.
This season includes epic battles and introduces new characters, such as the American hero Star and Stripe.
With 21 episodes in the current season, fans still have plenty to look forward to, even as they brace themselves for the manga’s conclusion.
My Hero Academia will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy in the world of manga and anime.
The series has crossed 100 million copies in circulation as of April, cementing its status as one of the highest-selling manga series in history.
Its impact extends beyond sales, influencing a new generation of manga artists and storytellers who aspire to create works with the same level of emotional depth and excitement.
What’s Next for Kohei Horikoshi?
While the curtain is closing on My Hero Academia, fans are eagerly speculating about what’s next for its creator, Kohei Horikoshi.
Given his track record of creating captivating stories and characters, the anticipation for his future projects is palpable.
Whether he chooses to explore new worlds or revisit the universe of My Hero Academia in some capacity, one thing is certain: the manga and anime community will be watching closely.
Final Words
As we approach the final chapters of My Hero Academia, it’s worth taking a moment to reflect on the journey.
From its humble beginnings to its rise as a global phenomenon, the series has been a source of inspiration, excitement, and joy for countless fans.
The end of My Hero Academia marks the conclusion of a significant chapter in the history of manga, but its legacy will continue to inspire and entertain for years to come.
So, whether you’ve been a fan from the start or discovered the series along the way, let’s join together in celebrating the incredible journey of Izuku Midoriya and his friends.
Here’s to the final chapters and the memories they will create – plus ultra!
