Dragon Ball fans are abuzz following Dragon Ball DAIMA Episode 7, where Goku nonchalantly claims he “wasn’t really involved” in raising Gohan. This revelation has reignited debates about Goku’s parenting, challenging the beloved portrayal of his bond with Gohan in Dragon Ball Z. While Goku’s absence has been attributed to his untimely deaths or training, DAIMA reframes this as neglect—a move many fans perceive as undermining core character dynamics for comedic effect.
Since its inception, Goku’s relationship with Gohan has been a central emotional thread in Dragon Ball Z. From their early mountain adventures to the Hyperbolic Time Chamber training, Goku was shown as a loving, albeit unconventional, father. This depiction now feels at odds with DAIMA’s portrayal, sparking criticism over the series’ willingness to rewrite foundational aspects of Goku’s character for modern storytelling.
Goku’s Parenting in Dragon Ball: Myth vs. Reality
In both Akira Toriyama’s manga and Toei’s anime adaptation, Goku is portrayed as an active parent, particularly in the five-year gap between Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z. The anime even highlights this with a filler episode showcasing Goku and Gohan’s bonding adventures before Raditz’s arrival. These moments cemented Goku’s dedication to his family despite his warrior spirit.
Throughout the Dragon Ball Z saga, Goku repeatedly demonstrates his love for Gohan. His sacrifice against Raditz and later against Cell underscores his protective nature. Gohan’s admiration for Goku—whether striving to emulate his bravery or training to surpass him—forms a compelling father-son arc. By the Buu Saga, Gohan choosing to wear Goku’s gi signifies their mutual respect and deep connection.
Modern Reinterpretations: The Shift in Tone
Modern iterations like Dragon Ball Super and now Dragon Ball DAIMA have reframed Goku’s role as a father. While Super introduced humorous elements suggesting Goku missed major milestones, DAIMA takes it further, casting Goku as a negligent parent. For many fans, this feels less like character development and more like a betrayal of Dragon Ball Z’s thematic foundation, where Goku’s balance of family and fighting was central.
