Key Highlights
- Yoshihiro Togashi’s ongoing health struggles, primarily chronic back pain, have contributed to the inconsistency in the publication of Hunter x Hunter.
- Recently, Togashi underwent surgery, completed new chapters, and has brought in assistants to facilitate the serialization process.
- The highly anticipated Hunter x Hunter resumed its publication with weekly chapters starting in October 2024.
Yoshihiro Togashi recently shared significant updates regarding both Hunter x Hunter and his personal health journey. Since its debut in Shueisha’s Shonen Jump back in 1998, this beloved series has been released in 38 compiled volumes.
Despite being featured in a weekly magazine, Hunter x Hunter has seen extended periods of hiatus over the past few years, largely due to Togashi’s chronic back pain, which hinders his ability to create new chapters.
In a recent social media update, Togashi announced that he has successfully completed the manuscripts for two new chapters, referred to as “narratives,”and revealed that he underwent local anesthesia during surgery. He described the experience as enlightening, as the medical team provided live explanations throughout the procedure, although he refrained from detailing the exact nature of the surgery:
Finished two chapters.
I had surgery. Local anesthesia.
It was for medical treatment, so they explained everything.
It was great to learn it.
So I consider it a valuable experience.
Thank you very much.
Latest Chapters of Hunter x Hunter
The latest chapters of Hunter x Hunter resumed publishing this year, with chapter 400 appearing in 2022 before the series again went on hiatus. On October 7, 2024, chapter 401 marked the return of weekly publications, with chapter 408 released on November 25.
The chapters tend to be released in “blocks,” where Togashi prepares about ten chapters (which typically constitute a volume) before taking breaks to work on subsequent chapters. While it remains uncertain if this pattern will continue, Togashi appears to be actively working on new material.
Togashi’s Health Challenges
Togashi has long battled chronic back pain that can become severe, affecting his daily activities. Previously, he has mentioned in Shonen Jump that he struggled with basic tasks like getting out of bed or even reaching the bathroom, and at times, the pain has been so intense that he required ambulance assistance.
Such health issues are not uncommon among manga artists, likely exacerbated by the demanding nature of their work. This pain has at times forced Togashi to halt his drawing work. In a shift towards managing his workload, he has started hiring assistants to help with the serialization of Hunter x Hunter, a decision likely taken to alleviate some of the burden from his plate.
Both the Hunter x Hunter manga and its 2011 anime adaptation are now licensed in the United States by Viz Media, ensuring fans have access to this beloved series.
For more insights, please refer to the Official Togashi Account on X (Formerly Twitter).
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