Krillin: The Most Repeatedly Killed Character in Dragon Ball Z

Introduction

Dragon Ball Z (DBZ) is a pop culture phenomenon that has captivated audiences for decades. One of the most talked-about aspects in the series is the number of times characters meet their demise. Surprisingly, there's a character who has died more than any other in the series - not Vegeta, Gohan, or even the formidable Cell, but a martial arts practitioner from Universe 7: Krillin. This article delves into the reasons behind Krillin's frequent demises and why, despite it being a running gag, he remains a fan favorite.

The Myth of Yamcha's Frequent Deaths

Many fans joke about Yamcha's frequent deaths, attributing it to his short tenure as a recurring character. However, Yamcha has only died twice; in fact, his most memorable death was in the Buu saga, where he was sacrificed to save the world. Interestingly, when Yamcha is involved, he is typically saved by his loyal and selfless partner, Bulma. These deaths, though memorable, do not match the frequency of Krillin's.

Krillin's Deployment

Krillin, a resident of Earth in Universe 7, has often been the victim of a split personality: he is both a capable fighter and a token comedic relief. This duality makes him an easy target for the villains of DBZ. Krillin is frequently deployed to face the more formidable foes in the series, which often results in his demise. He has died a total of five times, showcasing a level of bravery and determination that endears him to fans.

His Most Notable Deaths

Let's recount Krillin's most notable deaths to understand why he ends up in these situations so often:

First Death (Ep 131 - Before the Tournament): In this early episode, Krillin is sent by Kami to train Buu. However, during a training session with Buu, Krillin proves to be incapable of taking a single hit from Buu, leading to his death. This event serves to highlight the inexperience of the character and the power of Buu, who would go on to become a significant threat in the series. Second Death (Ep 147 - Saiyans on Earth): In this episode, Krillin faces a single Saiyan warrior named Soldier Ginyu. Despite his training and fighting spirit, Krillin succumbs to Ginyu's power, serving as a demonstration of how even experienced fighters can fall to an enemy with superior strength. Third Death (Ep 191 - Gokú vs Cell): Krillin's most famous moment occurs during the Cell Saga. After Gokú self-destructs, Krillin, Gohan, and others attempt to kill Cell by transferring the remaining power into their bodies and attempting to destroy Cell. Unfortunately, despite their best efforts, they fail, and Krillin dies alongside Gohan. Fourth Death (Ep 310 - Buu Saga): In this episode, Krillin confronts the monstrous warrior Buu. Though initially displaying a brief battle, Krillin eventually succumbs to Buu's immense power, showing that even well-trained fighters are in danger when faced with such a threat. Fifth Death (Ep 475 - Super Saiyans Power-Ups): In the final episode of the manga, Krillin is killed by Cell as a way to lure Gokú and company out. This death is significant, as it serves as a driving force for the remaining fighters in the series.

The Turning Point: Learning and Growth

Despite being killed multiple times, Krillin's story is one of learning and growth. Each death serves as a learning experience for him, and for the series' audience. Through each defeat, he refines his spirit of perseverance, becoming a more formidable character. His determination and willingness to fight, even when seemingly impossible, inspire viewers and fans alike.

Conclusion and Why He Still Dies

Krillin's frequent deaths are a testament to the series' narrative structure, as he is often placed in high-stakes situations. Each of his deaths serves a purpose in advancing the story or providing a learning experience for the character. His recurring role and the cliffhangers left at the moments of his demise keep fans engaged and excited for his return. This makes Krillin a fan favorite, and his presence in the series will always be a subject of both humor and serious reflection.

Though Krillin may have died more than any other character, his spirit continues to lived on in the hearts of Dragon Ball aficionados. Whether it's his wise words of advice or his unwavering resolve, Krillin has become an icon in the universe of Dragon Ball Z, and his story will continue to entertain and inspire for generations to come.