Berserk Staff Reveals Their Difficulties After The Death Of Author Kentaro Miura

When Kentaro Miura, the creative genius behind the iconic manga series Berserk, passed away, it sent shockwaves through the world of anime and manga. Many loyal Berserk fans feared that the epic tale of the Band of the Hawk would forever remain incomplete. However, a year after Miura’s untimely demise, his close friend, writer Kouji Mori, and the talented artists at Studio Gaga made the courageous decision to carry on with Guts’ journey through the pages of the manga. Despite releasing several new chapters of Berserk since then, a recent interview with Kouji Mori sheds light on the challenges they faced when choosing to continue the saga.

Throughout the history of Berserk, Kentaro Miura not only authored the gripping narrative but also crafted its visually stunning world. This masterpiece of a manga series has consistently been hailed as one of the greatest of all time. Following Miura’s passing, the artists at Studio Gaga, who had collaborated with Miura throughout the series, and his dear friend, writer Kouji Mori, grappled with the daunting task of deciding how to proceed.

What is Berserk About?

Berserk, the acclaimed Japanese manga by Kentaro Miura, weaves a dark fantasy world inspired by medieval Europe. It revolves around Guts, a solitary swordsman, and Griffith, the leader of the “Band of the Hawk” mercenary group. The narrative follows Guts’ quest for revenge against Griffith, who betrayed him and turned into a formidable demonic entity. Miura introduced a Berserk prototype in 1988, and it officially launched in 1989 in Monthly Animal House. After Miura’s sad demise in May 2021, the series resumed in June 2022 under the supervision of Kouji Mori, a fellow manga artist and Miura’s childhood friend, along with Studio Gaga’s assistants and apprentices.

Berserk transitioned to anime with a 25-episode TV series by OLM, covering the Golden Age arc, airing from October 1997 to March 1998. The Golden Age arc also received a trilogy of theatrical anime films in 2012 and 2013. A second 24-episode TV series aired in 2016 and 2017. By September 2023, Berserk’s manga had over 60 million copies in circulation, digital and physical, making it one of the best-selling manga series worldwide. It even earned the Award for Excellence at the Tezuka Osamu Cultural Prize in 2002. Berserk’s acclaim rests on its dark setting, compelling storytelling, intricate characters, and Miura’s meticulous artistry.

Kentaro Miura’s Untimely Demise

After Miura’s sudden passing on May 20, 2021, the fate of Berserk hung in the balance. His posthumous 364th chapter released on September 10 of the same year, marking his final contribution. Members of Miura’s Studio Gaga, consisting of his assistants and apprentices, diligently completed the chapter. Young Animal paid tribute to Miura in that issue, featuring a “Messages to Kentarou Miura” booklet and iconic manga scenes. Hakusensha expressed uncertainty about the series’ future, vowing to prioritize Miura’s vision.

On June 7, 2022, Hakusensha and Kouji Mori announced Berserk’s continuation, drawing from Miura’s plans, thoughts, memorandums, and character designs. Mori’s relationship with Miura spanned nearly three decades, with discussions shaping the manga’s storyline. Mori pledged to stay true to Miura’s vision, retaining the story’s essence without embellishment. The manga credits now read “original work by Kentaro Miura, art by Studio Gaga, supervised by Kouji Mori.” The “Fantasia Arc/Elf Island Chapter” concluded from June 24, 2022, to May 26, 2023, marking a poignant moment in Berserk’s history. A new story arc began on September 22 of the same year, promising more of the epic tale fans cherish.

The Staff’s Dilemma

 Initially hesitant to continue without Miura, Mori’s resolve was bolstered by the “enthusiasm” of Studio Gaga’s artists, ultimately inspiring him to take up the mantle of finishing Miura’s work. In a recent interview, Kouji Mori opened up about his change of heart, stating, “I thought maybe I could do it. I thought Miura would be angry if I didn’t do anything, so I made the decision.”

Mori and Studio Gaga embarked on a journey to continue the epic tale of Berserk, a process that began with a “three to four-hour meeting.” During this crucial discussion, the writer and artists brainstormed the most fitting approach to bring the Band of the Hawk’s story to its conclusion. Mori shared insights into their collaborative efforts, saying,

“During the three- to four-hour meeting, I explained the development to Studio Gaga staff. Afterward, I exchanged personal messages with the chief. I give advice on drafts, but the final drawings are the work of Studio Gaga. The drawing skills of our staff, including Chief Kurosaki-kun, are extraordinary. I believe that after they complete Berserk, they will become artists who will leave their mark on the manga world.”

In the latest manga chapter of Berserk, which has been released in Japan, a new story arc has begun, thrusting Guts and his companions into the “Eastern Exile” arc. The chapter commences with our heroes in chains, setting the stage for what promises to be a harrowing journey. As Casca remains captured by Griffith and his evil forces, the Black Swordsman faces a tough road ahead. However, there’s no official word on when fans can expect a new Berserk anime.

Despite the challenges and the weight of Kentaro Miura’s legacy, writer Kouji Mori and the artists at Studio Gaga are determined to honor his vision and provide closure to Berserk’s dedicated fans. The story of the Band of the Hawk remains as gripping as ever, a tribute to Miura’s storytelling prowess.

In summary, continuing Berserk after Kentaro Miura’s passing was a tough call for the manga team. Kouji Mori and Studio Gaga took on the daunting task of carrying the epic tale forward, thanks to their dedication and the remarkable talent of Studio Gaga’s artists.

As they venture through the “Eastern Exile” arc, Guts and his comrades find themselves in chains, setting the stage for a thrilling and perilous journey. Kentaro Miura’s legacy lives on through Berserk, a testament to the lasting impact of his work.

In the wake of Miura’s passing, the Berserk staff navigated turbulent waters to preserve his legacy. As the series continues, it remains a testament to their dedication and the enduring power of Miura’s creation.

While fans eagerly await news of a new anime adaptation, the commitment of the manga’s creators ensures that Berserk will continue to captivate and enchant audiences, just as it has for decades.