Jujutsu Kaisen Creator Initially Didn’t Plan for Nanami to Die

One of the most poignant moments in “Jujutsu Kaisen” Season 2 is undoubtedly the death of Kento Nanami. Interestingly, it turns out that the manga’s original creator had different plans initially. The creator, Gege Akutami, didn’t want Nanami to die during the Shibuya Incident arc. However, as the story progressed, it became clear that Nanami’s death was necessary to propel the narrative.

“Jujutsu Kaisen” is currently navigating through another intense manga arc, the Shinjuku Showdown. This series is notorious for its brutal battles, where beloved characters frequently meet their demise. The world created by Akutami is bleak, where the chances of a favorite character surviving are slim.

Before the Shibuya Incident, character deaths were occasional. However, this arc shifted the dynamics, bringing significant consequences for numerous characters. Yuji Itadori, the protagonist, reached his breaking point when Nanami died right before his eyes at the hands of Mahito. Initially, Akutami aimed to avoid this tragic event.

“Sometimes it feels like…the script progresses and evolves depending on the characters themselves,” Akutami revealed during a special art exhibition for the manga in Japan. He further detailed that he didn’t want Nanami to die during the Shibuya Incident initially but realized that it was the natural progression of the story. “I didn’t want Nanami to die at that point, but I was thinking that maybe there was no way around it,” Akutami confessed. He noted that Itadori’s intervention changed the course, making Nanami’s death a pivotal moment.

Nanami’s death, though shocking, served as a significant motivator for Yuji. It pressed him further into the climactic finale of the Shibuya Incident and set the stage for future arcs. This event is one of many notable deaths in the series, and it’s unlikely to be the last as the story moves toward its conclusion.

The revelation about Akutami’s creative process adds an intriguing layer to the series. It shows how the characters can sometimes steer the narrative direction, even surprising the creator. Nanami’s demise wasn’t just a plot device; it was an emotional anchor that deepened Yuji’s resolve and pain.

As “Jujutsu Kaisen” continues to unfold, fans can expect more high stakes and heartbreaking moments. The Shinjuku Showdown promises further intensity, keeping readers and viewers on edge. Given the series’ history, it’s almost certain that more beloved characters will face tragic fates, contributing to the manga’s relentless, unforgiving world.

While the loss of Nanami remains a somber moment for fans, it underscores the unpredictable and raw nature of “Jujutsu Kaisen.” Akutami’s willingness to let the story evolve organically, even when it leads to unexpected and painful deaths, is a testament to his storytelling prowess. It’s this unpredictability and emotional depth that keeps fans invested and eagerly anticipating each new chapter and episode.

As we continue to follow Yuji and his companions, Nanami’s death remains a crucial turning point. It serves as a stark reminder of the perilous world they inhabit and the heavy burdens they carry. The journey ahead in “Jujutsu Kaisen” is bound to be fraught with more trials and tribulations, making it a compelling and emotional ride for all who embark on it.

Source: ComicBook