How Many Times Did Krillin Die in Dragon Ball?

How Many Times Did Krillin Die in Dragon Ball?

In the Dragon Ball series, Krillin holds the distinction of being one of the most courageous and selfless characters, often putting himself in harm’s way to protect his friends and the Earth. Unfortunately, this bravery comes at a cost, as Krillin has died multiple times throughout the series. His deaths are not only memorable but also serve as significant turning points in the Dragon Ball storyline.

The Number of Times Krillin Has Died

Krillin has died three times in the canonical Dragon Ball timeline. Additionally, there are non-canon instances of his death in movies and alternate universes, which further add to his reputation as the character with a knack for dying and coming back to life.

Krillin’s Canonical Deaths

1. Killed by Tambourine (Dragon Ball)

• When: During the original Dragon Ball series, in the King Piccolo Saga.
• How: Tambourine, a henchman of King Piccolo, kills Krillin after the World Martial Arts Tournament by attacking him unexpectedly.
• Impact:
  • This marks Krillin’s first death and is a shocking moment in the series.
  • It motivates Goku to avenge him and sets the tone for the darker themes of the King Piccolo Saga.

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

• When: During the climactic battle on Planet Namek.
• How: Frieza uses telekinesis to lift Krillin into the air and explodes him with an energy blast.
• Impact:
  • This is one of the most iconic deaths in Dragon Ball Z.
  • Krillin’s death triggers Goku’s transformation into a Super Saiyan for the first time, a pivotal moment in the series.

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

• When: In the alternate timeline revealed by Future Trunks.
• How: Krillin is killed during the androids’ rampage, as revealed in Trunks’ backstory.
• Impact:
  • Although this death occurs off-screen, it emphasizes the destruction caused by the androids in Future Trunks’ dystopian world.
  • It underscores the stakes of stopping the androids in the main timeline.

Non-Canonical Deaths

In addition to his canonical deaths, Krillin also dies in non-canon material, including:

1. Movies and Specials

• Krillin’s death is often used as a plot device in Dragon Ball movies to motivate Goku or other characters.
• For example, in Dragon Ball GT, Krillin is killed by Android 17 during the Super 17 Saga but is later revived.

2. Filler Episodes

• Some filler episodes of the anime show Krillin in perilous situations where he meets his end, though these are not part of the main storyline.

Revivals: How Is Krillin Brought Back?

Each time Krillin dies in the canonical timeline, he is revived through the Dragon Balls:

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

The Significance of Krillin’s Deaths

1. Emotional Impact

Krillin’s deaths are always emotional and impactful, highlighting his role as a loyal and selfless fighter who often sacrifices himself for the greater good.

2. Catalysts for Change

• Frieza Saga: His death is the key event that triggers Goku’s transformation into a Super Saiyan.
• King Piccolo Saga: His demise sets Goku on a path of vengeance and growth.

3. A Reminder of Human Vulnerability

Unlike Saiyans and other superpowered beings, Krillin is a human. His deaths remind viewers of the stakes involved in battles and the cost of standing up against overwhelming odds.

Fan Reactions

1. A Mix of Humor and Respect

• Krillin’s repeated deaths have become a running joke among fans, inspiring memes like the “Krillin Owned Count” from Dragon Ball Z Abridged.
• Despite the humor, fans respect Krillin’s bravery and his willingness to fight, even when outmatched.

2. Memorable Moments

Each of Krillin’s canonical deaths is a memorable moment in Dragon Ball, showcasing his importance to the series’ emotional depth and progression.

Conclusion

Krillin has died three times in the Dragon Ball canon, with each death playing a crucial role in the series’ development. Whether as a catalyst for Goku’s transformation, a motivator for the Z Fighters, or a reminder of the stakes at hand, Krillin’s sacrifices underscore his courage and loyalty.

Despite his repeated deaths, Krillin remains a beloved character whose resilience and humanity make him one of the most enduring figures in the Dragon Ball universe.

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