Hunter X Hunter's Connection To Sailor Moon Will Make You Believe In Love
Though he has enjoyed success with "Yu Yu Hakusho," there is no denying that Yoshiro Togashi's "Hunter x Hunter" has become both an anime and manga favorite among fans. In a world where licensed professionals track down beasts, criminals, and even treasure, Gon Freecss wishes to follow in his father's footsteps to become one of the legendary Hunters. With two popular anime adaptations and a manga that has finally resumed after a long hiatus, "Hunter x Hunter" is a force to be reckoned with.
When readers were first introduced to Gon and his friends, they probably recognized a familiar face. Between pages, Togashi provides a sketch of Usagi Tsukino, AKA Sailor Moon, in his art style. At first glance, it could appear that he is merely paying homage to his fellow mangaka's creation—much like how Demon Slayer's Koyoharu Gotouge paid tribute to "Bleach" with their drawing of Orihime Inoue and Rukia Kuchiki. However, fans might not know that the connection between Togashi and Naoko Takeuchi's works goes much deeper than a simple tribute.
They Have Been Married For Nearly 30 Years
This is more than admiration for another manga artist's work; Togashi and Takeuchi are married. The two were introduced in 1997 and quickly fell for each other. Despite a rocky love story—according to several recounts of their relationship—they were married in 1999 and have been together ever since.
Takeuchi's presence can be felt throughout "Hunter x Hunter," which debuted a year after "Sailor Moon" ended and offered fans a similar band of unique characters. The conclusion of "Sailor Moon" left Takeuchi without much to do, and it appears she filled the time by helping her husband with his next major series. In addition to designing characters that look like they would be at home hanging out with Usagi Tsukino — such as Menchi, the gourmet examiner of the Hunter Exam — she lent her skills to other parts of the manga. A closer look at Togashi's Sailor Moon sketch has a message, thanking his wife for coloring pages and helping bring his story to life. He further praises her talent, calling her a great painter and a gorgeous artist.
It's heartwarming to see the love and support these two creators have for one another, and it's clear that they admire and respect the worlds they each have created. They have certainly solidified themselves as a power couple within the manga community.