Every Time Krillin Died in Dragon Ball: A Comprehensive Guide

Every Time Krillin Died in Dragon Ball: A Comprehensive Guide

Krillin, one of the most loyal and courageous characters in Dragon Ball, is unfortunately known for dying multiple times throughout the series. Despite being a human surrounded by Saiyans, androids, and gods, Krillin consistently steps into danger to protect his loved ones. His sacrifices serve as emotional and narrative turning points, leaving a lasting impact on the series.

Here’s a detailed look at every time Krillin has died in the Dragon Ball canon and beyond.

Canonical Deaths

1. Killed by Tambourine (Dragon Ball)

• When: During the original Dragon Ball series, in the King Piccolo Saga.
• How: Tambourine, one of King Piccolo’s henchmen, kills Krillin after the World Martial Arts Tournament.
• Where: Krillin is ambushed while retrieving Goku’s Power Pole and a Dragon Ball.
• Impact:
  • This is Krillin’s first death and one of the earliest significant deaths in Dragon Ball.
  • Goku, devastated by the loss of his best friend, sets out on a journey to avenge him, marking the beginning of the battle against King Piccolo.

2. Killed by Frieza (Dragon Ball Z, Namek Saga)

• When: During the climactic battle on Planet Namek.
• How: Frieza lifts Krillin into the air using telekinesis and detonates him with an energy blast.
• Where: The battlefield on Namek.
• Impact:
  • This is one of the most iconic moments in Dragon Ball Z.
  • Krillin’s death triggers Goku’s first transformation into a Super Saiyan, a pivotal moment that changes the course of the series.
  • It underscores Frieza’s cruelty and raises the emotional stakes of the battle.

3. Killed by Android 17 and 18 (Dragon Ball Z, Future Trunks’ Timeline)

• When: In Future Trunks’ alternate timeline.
• How: Krillin is killed off-screen during the androids’ rampage.
• Where: Future Trunks’ dystopian Earth.
• Impact:
  • This death, though not shown, contributes to the bleak and tragic tone of Trunks’ backstory.
  • It highlights the destructive power of the androids and the stakes of preventing their rise in the main timeline.

Non-Canonical Deaths

1. Killed by Super Android 17 (Dragon Ball GT)

• When: During the Super 17 Saga in Dragon Ball GT.
• How: Krillin is killed by Android 17 after trying to stop him from harming Android 18.
• Where: Earth.
• Impact:
  • This death deeply affects Android 18, showcasing her love and loyalty to Krillin.
  • He is later revived using the Dragon Balls.

2. Deaths in Movies and Specials

Krillin dies in several Dragon Ball movies, often as a plot device to motivate Goku or the other Z Fighters. While these instances are not part of the main storyline, they remain memorable for fans.

Revivals

Thanks to the Dragon Balls, Krillin’s canonical deaths in the main timeline are temporary:

1. After Tambourine’s Attack: Revived using Earth’s Dragon Balls.
2. After Frieza’s Explosion: Revived with Earth’s Dragon Balls after the destruction of Namek.
3. Future Trunks’ Timeline: In this alternate timeline, Krillin remains dead as the Dragon Balls are no longer functional.

Why Are Krillin’s Deaths Important?

1. Emotional Weight

Krillin’s deaths are deeply emotional moments in Dragon Ball, reflecting his vulnerability and his unwavering bravery.

2. Catalysts for Change

• Super Saiyan Transformation: His death at the hands of Frieza directly leads to Goku’s first Super Saiyan transformation.
• Goku’s Growth: In the King Piccolo Saga, Krillin’s death pushes Goku to grow stronger and seek justice.

3. High Stakes and Sacrifice

As one of the few human Z Fighters, Krillin’s willingness to face overwhelming odds emphasizes the stakes and dangers of their battles.

Fan Reactions

1. Humor and Memes

Krillin’s multiple deaths have inspired memes like the “Krillin Owned Count” in Dragon Ball Z Abridged. Despite the humor, fans also respect his bravery.

2. Admiration for His Courage

Fans appreciate Krillin’s selflessness and his role as a key figure in the Z Fighters. His sacrifices, even in the face of certain death, make him a beloved character.

3. Iconic Moments

Each of Krillin’s deaths is a memorable moment, particularly his death on Namek, which remains one of the most significant events in anime history.

Conclusion

Krillin has died three times in the canonical timeline of Dragon Ball, with additional deaths in non-canon content. Despite his repeated losses, his willingness to sacrifice himself for his friends and the greater good highlights his bravery and loyalty.

Krillin’s deaths are more than just plot points—they are emotional and transformative moments that define the series and its characters. Whether as a motivator for Goku’s legendary transformation or as a symbol of human courage in the face of overwhelming odds, Krillin’s sacrifices ensure his place as one of the most beloved characters in Dragon Ball.

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鳥山明さんの作品をこよなく愛するドラゴンボールが好きな漫画オタクです。世の中のアニメ全般が好きで、クリエイターの皆様を応援しています。