Nayuta may still be alive in Chainsaw Man despite volume 19's corrections

Modified Dec 13, 2024 19:00 GMT

Recent revisions might hint at Nayuta's actual fate (Image via MAPPA)

In Chainsaw Man, Nayuta's fate has been a topic of immense speculation, especially following the revisions in volume 19. While Tatsuki Fujimoto’s artistic corrections were seemingly aimed at refining the details, some opine that these changes might contain deeper narrative surprises. Furthermore, they could hint at a possible Nayuta return.

As such, a theory that focuses on such a minute detail has surfaced in the Chainsaw Man community. It centers around Fujimoto correcting one of Nayuta's facial features. The mangaka is renowned for his unpredictable storytelling ability, always leaving room for interpretation. Misdirection or intentional foreshadowing, the revisions have given hope to those rejecting Nayuta’s presumed fate.

If true, exploring this possibility underscores Fujimoto’s expert subversion of expectations and keeps alive one of Chainsaw Man’s most intriguing characters.

Disclaimer: This article is speculative in nature.

Chainsaw Man: Recent revisions might hint at Nayuta's actual fate

Nayuta's severed head (Image via Viz Media)

A recently woven theory in the Chainsaw Man fandom following revisions by its creator might have reignited the hopes of many. As seen in chapter 170, Nayuta's severed head was brought before Denji by Barem Bridge in an attempt to awaken Chainsaw Man. That was when many were distressed, given Nayuta had become a fan favorite in the series.

However, Fujimoto recently made revisions to volume 19 of the manga, which has sparked immense speculation regarding Nayuta's true fate. The theory revolves around the addition of Nayuta's mole on her left upper cheek in the revisions, which was supposedly not there previously. In essence, Fujimoto "fixed" the error that was made earlier.

However, the theory states that in doing so, the mangaka might have disclosed that she is possibly still alive. It speculates that Fujimoto had intended to keep the mole out to later reveal Nayuta's head as a fake. But then he was compelled to add it back due to spoilers for the big reveal and fans being quick and sharp to catch on.

Could Nayuta really be alive?

Nayuta as seen in the manga (Image via Viz Media)

If this is the case, many fans might be in for some much-needed happiness. Nayuta, upon introduction, was adored by lovers of the series and had an instant impact. Tasked with taking care of her, Nayuta became Denji's why and they were nearly inseparable. She eventually developed a soft spot for the boy and sought to protect him in her own way.

Overall, Nayuta was a breath of fresh air to the chaotic world of Chainsaw Man. However, her untimely demise triggered Denji/Pochita's rampage and brought unpleasantness to the fandom. As mentioned, if Fujimoto's revisions were truly a profound foreshadowing, then Nayuta's return would be more than welcomed by the fandom.

It might even bring Denji and Pochita back under control, of course considering the subduing of the Aging Devil threat. But even so, it is unlikely that Nayuta might return at this point since her death was meant to be a trigger of the recent events. Moreover, given Fujimoto's unconventional writing style, Nayuta's death could have been geared towards the final rungs of Denji's development, which he displays in the most recent chapters as he attempts to escape from Aging's world.

Final thoughts

Pochita in his Hero of Hell form (Image via Viz Media)

In conclusion, Chainsaw Man drawing the curtains on Nayuta's character when it did was likely fitting, given the ensuing chaos. Although very beloved, the little girl might have already served her role in the story, and bringing her back at this point could make it tough to continue. A major reason would be the difference in power since she is still a child and nowhere near as powerful as the Control Devil.

In case she does indeed return, it could be upon the Death Devil's arrival. As such, the fandom would be treated to a reunion of the Four Horsemen. But in this case, all efforts will have been to prevent this Devil's coming and if it does take place, then a united front of Pochita, Yoru, Fami, and Nayuta could stand against the final sister, Death.