Unveiling the Canon Status of Dragon Ball GT

Is Dragon Ball GT a part of the main storyline after Dragon Ball Super? This question has puzzled many fans for years. In this article, we will explore the official stance on the canon status of GT, examining key points of contention and drawing conclusions based on official statements and fan interpretations.

The Official Position

Dragon Ball Super is recognized as the official canon continuation following Dragon Ball Z, specifically after the Buu Saga. This means that events in GT, which aired before Super, do not follow a direct chronological order. In GT, Bra (Bulla) is older than Pan by at least 6 years, while in Super, Pan is born first. This fundamental chronological issue makes it impossible for GT to be considered a direct sequel to Super in terms of canon continuity.

The Involvement of Akira Toriyama

Akira Toriyama, the creator of Dragon Ball, played a limited role in the production of Dragon Ball GT. He contributed to character designs and provided some input, but he did not write the content or storyline. In an interview, Toriyama stated that GT was a “grand side story” of the original Dragon Ball series, emphasizing its non-canon status. However, he has also expressed that the show is “available” for fans to consider as canon if they choose to do so.

Debunking Common Beliefs

Debunking Point 1: Lack of Manga

Some argue that since Dragon Ball GT does not have a manga adaptation, it cannot be considered canon. While it is true that GT has not been officially converted into a manga series, this does not entirely rule it out. For example, Dragon Ball Z's Bardock movie and a character from Dragon Ball Super (Broly) were not initially part of the manga but have since been incorporated into the continuity. Therefore, the absence of a manga version does not necessarily mean GT is non-canon.

Debunking Point 2: Toriyama's Non-Participation

Another argument is that since Toriyama did not write Dragon Ball GT, it cannot be canon. However, Bardock from Dragon Ball Z was also not written by Toriyama, yet his presence in the manga and anime is considered part of the canon. This suggests that a lack of direct involvement from Toriyama does not automatically negate a series' canon status.

Debunking Point 3: Official Retcons

Dragon Ball Super has altered some aspects of the original Dragon Ball timeline, which raises questions about whether GT can be canon. Super does add characters like the gods and different universes, but these additions do not directly contradict GT. In fact, both GT and Super share some elements, such as the existence of the caped fighters, indicating a continuity in the series.

Debunking Point 4: Side Story

Finally, some believe that GT being a side story means it cannot be canon. While a side story can sometimes be non-canon, Dragon Ball has a history of incorporating side stories into its main timeline, thereby rendering this argument less compelling.

Conclusion and Personal Opinion

Dragon Ball GT has not been officially confirmed as either canon or non-canon. Its status is often a matter of fan interpretation. In my personal opinion, Dragon Ball GT can indeed be considered canon. Here are the main reasons:

GT is the least inconsistent with the show compared to the 13 Dragon Ball Z movies before the Battle of the Gods, which contradict the series too much. I consider it canon because I enjoy the show and believe it adds to the Dragon Ball universe.

Remember, the final decision is ultimately up to the fans. However, based on the evidence and interpretation, Dragon Ball GT can be a valuable addition to the canon of the Dragon Ball saga.