Gege Akutami reveals real-life inspiration for Toji Fushiguro in Jujutsu Kaisen exhibition

Modified Jul 06, 2024 23:30 GMT

Gege Akutami reveals real-life inspiration for Toji Fushiguro in Jujutsu Kaisen exhibition (Image via MAPPA)

The Jujutsu Kaisen exhibition, which commenced on July 6, 2024, in Shibuya, witnessed a captivating revelation from series creator Gege Akutami. This disclosure sent ripples of surprise throughout the anime and manga communities. Akutami revealed that the widely acclaimed character, Toji Fushiguro, renowned as the "Sorcerer Killer," drew direct inspiration from the renowned Hollywood action star, Jason Statham.

Although Toji's physical appearance may exhibit a slightly more muscular build, Akutami highlighted that it was Statham's distinctive persona and mannerisms that served as the primary foundation for Toji's compelling portrayal.

Jujutsu Kaisen: Toji Fushiguro is based after Hollywood star Jason Statham

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Gege Akutami, the mastermind behind the Jujutsu Kaisen series, meticulously crafts his characters, paying close attention to detail. In the case of Toji Fushiguro, his inspiration is drawn from the on-screen presence of Jason Statham, the renowned action star. This influence is undeniably evident in Toji's character portrayal.

Jason Statham has established himself as a renowned action star through his roles in high-octane movies like The Transporter, The Mechanic, and the Expendables franchise. His trademark cool composure and commanding screen persona have become defining characteristics.

Toji plans the assassination of Amanai Riko (Image via MAPPA)

Similarly, Toji Fushiguro embodies these very qualities. He is depicted as a calm, composed, and calculating individual who thrives in high-stakes confrontations. Toji's ability to maintain his composure in the face of danger, his tactical approach to combat, and his indifference towards the hierarchies of the jujutsu world are all reminiscent of Statham's on-screen personas.

Akutami admitted that he was drawn to the actor's seamless blend of physical prowess and nuanced character portrayal, qualities he aimed to capture in crafting Toji's character.

Toji leaves Gojo Satoru to die (Image via MAPPA)

The parallels between Toji and Statham extend beyond mere surface similarities. Both the Jujutsu Kaisen character and characters played by the actor exhibit a certain detachment from societal conventions, a readiness to operate outside established systems, and an unwavering personal resolve that guides their actions.

Toji's backstory as a non-curse user shunned by the Zenin clan mirrors the struggles often depicted in Statham's roles, where his characters frequently navigate the complexities of the world as outsiders or mavericks.

Jujutsu Kaisen: All you need to know about Toji Fushiguro

Toji is reincarnated in the Shibuya Incident arc (Image via MAPPA)

Toji Fushiguro's character, though not extensively explored, left an indelible mark on the Jujutsu Kaisen narrative. As Megumi Fushiguro's father, his influence permeated through the story, shaping Megumi's journey and the dynamics within the jujutsu community.

Toji's birth without Cursed Energy was an extraordinary rarity among jujutsu sorcerers. However, he compensated for this limitation through his exceptional physical prowess, making him a formidable adversary even without Cursed Energy-based techniques.

His moniker, "Sorcerer Killer," immediately established his fearsome reputation and ability to overcome inherent disadvantages through sheer skill, cunning, and physical might. Toji's confrontation with Satoru Gojo, renowned as the strongest jujutsu sorcerer, highlighted his capabilities and depth of character.

Final thoughts

Toji Fushiguro kills himself during his fight with Megumi Fushiguro (Image via MAPPA)

Fans of the captivating anime series Jujutsu Kaisen were thrilled when the talented creator, Gege Akutami, unveiled the real-life inspiration behind the enigmatic character, Toji Fushiguro. It turns out that Toji's striking appearance bears an uncanny resemblance to the charismatic Hollywood actor, Jason Statham. This revelation has resonated profoundly with viewers, adding an extra layer of depth and intrigue to Toji's portrayal on screen.