Krillin and the Beard: A Rare and Memorable Look in Dragon Ball
Krillin and the Beard: A Rare and Memorable Look in Dragon Ball
Krillin, one of the most recognizable characters in Dragon Ball, is best known for his bald head and six iconic monk dots. However, in one rare instance, Krillin sported a beard, surprising fans and adding a humorous twist to his character’s journey. While Krillin’s bearded look was brief, it left a lasting impression and became a notable part of his story.
This article explores Krillin’s beard moment, its context in the Dragon Ball series, and its impact on fans.
1. When Did Krillin Have a Beard?
Krillin’s beard made its appearance in the Garlic Jr. Saga of Dragon Ball Z. During this arc, Krillin briefly grows facial hair, marking a distinct departure from his usual clean-shaven look.
1.1 Context of the Garlic Jr. Saga
The Garlic Jr. Saga is a filler arc that takes place after the Frieza Saga and before the Android Saga. While it does not contribute directly to the main storyline, it provides additional character moments and lighthearted interactions.
1.2 The Bearded Look
Krillin is shown with a scruffy beard during this arc, which is implied to be the result of taking some time off from shaving. His disheveled appearance adds a humorous element to his otherwise serious and disciplined character.
2. Why Did Krillin Grow a Beard?
While the series does not provide a detailed explanation for Krillin’s beard, fans have speculated on the possible reasons:
2.1 Relaxation Period
After the intense battles on Namek and the defeat of Frieza, Krillin might have taken some time to relax. Growing a beard could symbolize his temporary step away from rigorous training and his role as a Z Fighter.
2.2 Humorous Effect
The addition of a beard serves as a comedic touch, contrasting Krillin’s usually clean-cut appearance. It aligns with Dragon Ball’s tendency to inject humor into character designs and situations.
2.3 Experimenting with a New Look
Krillin might have been experimenting with his appearance, reflecting a more laid-back and casual side of his personality.
3. Fan Reactions to Krillin’s Beard
Krillin’s bearded look, though brief, has been the subject of much discussion and humor among Dragon Ball fans.
3.1 Humor and Memes
Fans often joke about Krillin’s beard, comparing it to other characters’ facial hair or imagining him with different styles of beards. Memes and fan art frequently depict Krillin with exaggerated or elaborate bearded looks.
3.2 A Rare Appearance
Since Krillin is typically bald and clean-shaven, his bearded appearance stands out as a unique moment in the series. Fans appreciate the novelty of this look and its unexpected nature.
4. Beards in Dragon Ball
Krillin’s beard adds to the series’ occasional exploration of facial hair on characters.
4.1 Other Bearded Characters
While Krillin’s beard is rare, other characters like Master Roshi and Nappa are known for their facial hair, which often reflects their personalities. Master Roshi’s long beard, for example, complements his wise and eccentric demeanor.
4.2 Symbolism of Facial Hair
In Dragon Ball, facial hair is often used to signify age, wisdom, or humor. For Krillin, the beard likely represents a temporary shift in his character’s focus or a moment of comedic relief.
5. Krillin’s Evolution and His Beard
While the beard was a short-lived experiment, it reflects Krillin’s evolution as a character.
5.1 A More Relaxed Krillin
The bearded look shows a side of Krillin that is less concerned with discipline and appearance, emphasizing his human and relatable qualities.
5.2 Returning to His Iconic Look
Krillin quickly returns to his classic clean-shaven and bald appearance, reinforcing his identity as a dedicated martial artist and one of the most recognizable characters in Dragon Ball.
6. Fan Speculations: What If Krillin Kept the Beard?
Fans often wonder how Krillin’s character might have been perceived if he had kept the beard longer.
- Would It Suit His Family Life? In his later role as a husband to Android 18 and father to Marron, a beard might have added a mature, paternal touch to his appearance.
- Would It Impact His Fighting Persona? A bearded Krillin could project a rugged and seasoned image, contrasting with his usual approachable demeanor.
Conclusion
Krillin’s brief stint with a beard is a memorable and humorous moment in the Dragon Ball series. While it was a temporary change, it showcased a different side of his character and provided fans with a lighthearted break from the series’ intense battles.
Whether clean-shaven or sporting facial hair, Krillin remains one of the most beloved and relatable characters in Dragon Ball. His bearded appearance reminds fans of the series’ ability to blend humor with heartfelt character development, making even small moments unforgettable.