Follow us on Google News
Get the latest updates directly in your Google News feed
Few creators are held in as high regard as Eiichiro Oda and Masashi Kishimoto in the manga industry. Responsible forOne PieceandNarutorespectively, these two legendary authors have not only shaped the modern Shonen landscape but also have become cultural icons in their own right. As these series successfully started to evolve, Oda and Kishimoto developed a casual rivalry that was fueled by mutual respect and admiration.
However, despite starting at almost similar times, they faced very different paths by the mid-2010s. Kishimoto, having successfully completedNarutomanga in 2014 after a 15-year run, was able to step away from the grueling demands of weekly serialization. In contrast, Eiichiro Oda is still working tirelessly onOne Piece, with no signs of slowing down.
The End ofNarutoand Its Impact on Eiichiro Oda
Narutohad already become one of the “Big Three” alongsideOne PieceandBleach, by the time Masashi Kishimoto decided to conclude the manga in 2014. Alongside this, the anime adaptation also reached its end in 2017. With the completion of his legendary series, Kishimoto had reached the peak of his career and was free to enjoy life outside the constraints of his drawing desk, spending time with family and reflecting on his remarkable journey.
Following the conclusion, Kishimoto had an interesting exchange withOne Piece‘s creatorEiichiro Oda. In 2018, Oda shared the tidbits of this exchange where Kishimoto humorously shared how endingNarutomeant he could finally enjoy his family life. As@sandman_APhas shared on X (formerly, Twitter),
After Naruto ended, Kishimoto told Oda that he can now take a walk with his kid on a sunny day whenever he wanted. Oda was so depressed to hear that but he was motivated at the same time to draw OP for the future where he can take a walk anytime.🥺(2018)pic.twitter.com/dQq8KS9w0Z
Eiichiro Oda admitted that hearing Kishimoto’s comment made him “depressed”, as he was still in the thick of balancing the creative process, relentless deadlines, and his personal life. Despite his worldwide success, Oda had little time for himself or his family. While Kishimoto could enjoy the sunshine with his kid, Oda was chained to his drawing desk.
“What no corruption does to a politician”: In Boruto, Masashi Kishimoto Has Subtly Shown Why Naruto is the Greatest Hokage Ever
However, Oda experienced a renewed sense of motivation along with his depression. Kishimoto’s words became a source of inspiration, sparking Oda’s desire to someday reach that same level of peace. He envisioned a future where he could finishOne Pieceon his own terms, allowing himself to enjoy the fruits of his labor like Kishimoto. This motivation influenced a shift in Oda’s mindset and how he approached his art.
The Long Road Ahead forOne Piece
Having startedOne Piecein 1997, Oda is now more than two decades into his career as a mangaka, with no clear end in sight. His iconic creation has become a global phenomenon, setting records and establishing itself as one of the greatest manga of all time. But despite this success, it’s natural to be caught in the relentless cycle of deadlines and creative pressure that accompanies weekly serialization in Japan.
However, Oda still remained committed to delivering the best possible version ofOne Piece. Naruto’s completion acted as a reminder to Oda thatOne Piece’s end would also eventually come, but until then, he wanted to create a future where he could“take a walk on a sunny day with his kid”,just likeMasashi Kishimoto. This deep-rooted personal goal influenced both his creative process and his approach to drawing.
“We are far removed from what was originally planned”: Masashi Kishimoto Admits a Glaring Fact about Boruto That Could’ve Made Naruto Fans Hate it Less
WhileOne Pieceis still ongoing, Oda’s subtle shift in art and mindset signifies his desire to finish strong, while also preparing for the day when he can finally enjoy his leisure life with his family by enjoying the fruit of his labor.
One PieceandNarutoare currently available to watch on Crunchyroll.
Moumita Chakraborty
Articles Published :931
Moumita Chakraborty is a seasoned Anime Writer at FandomWire with over 900 published articles. Passionate about the vibrant world of Japanese anime, she brings sharp analytical skills and cultural insight to every piece. From dissecting intricate plotlines to spotlighting the latest trends and releases, Moumita’s work resonates with both casual fans and seasoned otakus. Her writing aims to connect with fellow anime enthusiasts while contributing meaningfully to the ever-growing anime community.
More from Moumita Chakraborty
Every Makoto Shinkai Main Character Ranked From Worst to Best
Sakamoto Days Part 2 Episode 8: Release Date, Spoilers and What to Expect
‘To Be Hero X’ Season 2 Needs to Give a Redemption Arc to Its Most Wronged Character
Recommended
Sean McLaughlin’s Dad Just Became the Unlikely Villain (or Hero) of ‘Bachelor in Paradise’
Madison Beer’s Boyfriend: Who Is She Dating?
Helldivers 2 X Halo ODST Legendary Warbond Crossover: Complete Rundown
Good Boy Director Explains How He Made His Dog Act in 2025’s Most Inventive Horror Movie
The Terminal List: Dark Wolf: Luke Hemsworth Reveals Marvel Link That Sneaks Into His Dark Wolf Role
The Batman 2: Is Zoë Kravitz Not In the Robert Pattinson Starring Sequel? Reports
Eiichiro OdaMasashi KishimotoNarutoOne Piece
