Introduction: Gohan's Rise and Fall as the Main Character
Throughout the Dragon Ball series, Gohan was initially positioned as a potential main character, especially after the defeat of Cell. Fans remember the intense moments where Gohan showcased incredible power, hinting that he might carry the series forward as the protector of Earth. Surprisingly, he was set up to become the new protagonist, with Goku choosing to stay dead to allow Gohan to step into the spotlight.
In fact, Goku explicitly explained his reasoning during this period, stating that Gohan was more reliable than himself. At the beginning of the Buu Saga, Master Roshi, acting as a sort of author insert, mentioned that despite Goku being dead, Gohan would take his place, and the series would continue with him as the lead. This was a significant moment, indicating that the series was potentially shifting focus onto Gohan.
Why Didn't Gohan Become the Series' Main Hero?
Despite these early hints, Gohan's ascension to the main character role was short-lived. Toriyama, the creator of Dragon Ball, later revealed that he felt he couldn't craft a compelling story with Gohan as the central figure. This creative concern led to a reversion back to Goku, who remained the primary protagonist through the end of Dragon Ball Z and into Dragon Ball Super.
In Dragon Ball Super, Goku's role was revitalized, and Gohan's character took a backseat, despite fans' hopes for more focus on him. However, the story has seen Gohan return to prominence in recent times, especially with the upcoming release of Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero set for theaters this summer, where Gohan is expected to have a major role again.
The Future of Gohan in the Dragon Ball Universe
While Gohan's role as the main hero was curtailed after the Cell Saga, recent developments suggest that his importance in the series is not over. Series creator Akira Toriyama has indicated that Gohan will take a leading role once more, especially in the upcoming film, reaffirming his significance in the Dragon Ball universe.
Fans can look forward to a resurgence of Gohan's character in upcoming stories, bridging the narrative gap and giving him the spotlight he was originally set to inherit.
Conclusion
In summary, Gohan was initially intended to be the main character of Dragon Ball Z after the Cell Saga, with strong hints from Goku and Master Roshi. However, due to creative decisions by Toriyama, Goku remained the central figure. Now, with the upcoming Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero film, Gohan's role is poised to be revitalized, giving fans the chance to see him in the forefront once again.
