Not Just Tite Kubo’s Bleach, Another Slept Upon Timeless Classic Gege Akutami Openly Claims Inspired Jujutsu Kaisen

Gege Akutami’s Jujutsu Kaisen manga has become a hot topic in the anime community, leaving fans with several bittersweet moments. While its final arc wasn’t deemed perfect, the shonen manga still managed to end on a largely high note. From thrilling action scenes to compelling characters, Gege Akutami introduced every key element to leave a long-lasting impression on the audience. 

Yuji Itadori and Megumi Fushiguro from Jujutsu Kaisen. [Credit: Studio Mappa]

Although some fans were upset by Gege’s rushed narrative for the final chapters, many were happy with the reunion of the iconic JJK trio: Yuji, Megumi, and Nobara. Not to forget, Gege Akutami messed up the biggest catastrophic event that readers were very excited to see unfold and never let Kenjaku’s 1000-year plans take place. Indeed, Gege Akutami’s masterpiece had its ups and downs, with most being disappointed by the final saga.

While many fans recognize Tite Kubo’s influence on Gege Akutami’s Jujutsu Kaisen, few are aware of another iconic title that significantly impacted the creator.

The Unseen Inspiration Behind Jujutsu Kaisen

After years of anticipation, Sukuna’s reign of fear is finally over in Jujutsu Kaisen. JJK Chapter 268 showcased the King of Curses’ tragic demise at the hands of none other than Yuji Itadori. Yuji, who never earned Sukuna’s regard and was constantly mocked for his selfless nature, ultimately defeated the King of Curses, bringing the entire story full circle.

Satoru Gojo and his six eyes in Jujutsu Kaisen. [Credit: Mappa]

Furthermore, in the final chapter, Sukuna ultimately accepts his humanity, taking many fans by surprise. As the King of Curses passes on, but he encounters Mahito on the roadway of souls before his soul entirely dissipates. Mahito reveals the truth behind Sukuna’s actions.

Despite all the criticism of the rushed ending, Gege Akutami‘s masterpiece has left a strong impression on the audience. Interestingly, JJK fans will be surprised to learn that a forgotten anime masterpiece influenced Gege Akutami a lot to create Jujutsu Kaisen. In an interview, the mangaka revealed:

One of my influences was Evangelion, I was made aware of biblical myths through this. But in general, I find that mythology is present in stories where men and gods oppose each other, without ever really explaining why. The Demon’s Slayer manga by Koyoharu Gotôge draws happily on Shinto stories and ancient Japanese tales to build its universe.

The anime series Neon Genesis Evangelion explores the complex relationships between humans and beings referred to as “Angels” and “Gods”. Throughout the series, themes of human psychology, existentialism, and the nature of God are woven together.

Yuji, Megumi, and Nobara from Jujutsu Kaisen anime | Credit: MAPPA

This show compels its audience to reflect on profound themes like God, their purpose on Earth, and the meaning of belonging to a community or family. In addition to Evangelion, Gege Akutami also admires the creator of Demon Slayer for incorporating ancient Japanese tales into their story.

Jujutsu Kaisen Surpasses One Piece, Becoming the Most Popular Anime

Eiichiro Oda‘s One Piece stands as one of the most recognized anime, earning the title of Big Three alongside Naruto or Bleach. While One Piece continues to set a notable example for many new-gen anime, Jujutsu Kaisen has surpassed Oda-sensei’s masterpiece in terms of popularity.

Monkey D. Luffy | Credits: Studio Toei Animation

In just under six years since its first chapter’s release, Gege Akutami’s manga is now crowned as the most popular anime in the Shonen industry. Interestingly, Guinness World Records has officially announced Jujutsu Kaisen as the world’s most in-demand anime series.

JJK has dethroned giants like Attack on Titan and One Piece with ease. Naturally, many anime fans were left stunned after Jujutsu Kaisen secured the Guinness World Record as the ‘world’s most popular animated show’.

Jujutsu Kaisen can be streamed on Crunchyroll, whereas the manga can be read on Viz Media.