Fact Check: Why did people perceive Dragon Ball GT as non-canon to Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Super manga/anime series?
What We Know
The perception of Dragon Ball GT as non-canon primarily stems from its production background and the subsequent introduction of Dragon Ball Super. Dragon Ball GT aired from 1996 to 1997 and was not based on a manga created by Akira Toriyama, unlike its predecessors, Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z (DBZ) (source-4). Instead, it was developed by Toei Animation, which led to a different narrative style and character development compared to the original series (source-4).
When Dragon Ball Super was released, it introduced new storylines and characters that did not align with the events of GT. For example, Super takes place between the end of DBZ and the beginning of GT, creating a timeline that complicates the relationship between the two series (source-4). Additionally, Super introduced new transformations and characters that were not present in GT, further distancing the two narratives (source-2).
Despite this, some official timelines have included events from GT, suggesting that it may still hold a place within the broader Dragon Ball universe (source-4). However, the lack of acknowledgment of key Super elements in GT has led many fans to view GT as an alternate universe rather than a direct continuation of the story (source-4).
Analysis
The debate over Dragon Ball GT's canonical status is fueled by its unique production circumstances and the narrative choices made in Dragon Ball Super. While GT is often dismissed as non-canon due to its lack of direct involvement from Toriyama and the inconsistencies with Super, it is essential to recognize that the series still has a following and has influenced the franchise in various ways (source-2).
Critically, the sources discussing GT's status vary in their reliability. For instance, Looper provides a thorough overview of the timeline and how GT fits into it, while Screen Rant highlights the conflicts introduced by Super (source-4, source-2). Conversely, CBR argues against GT being considered canon, emphasizing the narrative conflicts with Super (source-5).
Overall, the analysis indicates that while GT may not be officially recognized as canon by some fans and critics, it still occupies a unique position within the Dragon Ball franchise, leading to mixed perceptions among the audience.
Conclusion
The claim that people perceive Dragon Ball GT as non-canon to the Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Super series is Partially True. This perception arises from GT's distinct production history, the narrative conflicts introduced by Super, and the lack of direct involvement from Akira Toriyama. While GT is often viewed as an alternate universe, it has not been entirely erased from the Dragon Ball timeline, as some official materials still reference its events. Thus, while it may not be considered canon in the traditional sense, it remains a significant part of the franchise's lore.
