My Hero Academia Creator Breaks Silence on Its Finale: "Thank You For Giving Me Power" (2025)

Ten years after the release of its first chapter, the My Hero Academia manga came to an end with a spectacular final chapter, #431. The epilogue of the series, which allowed fans to see a glimpse of the protagonist’s life eight years after All For One was defeated, did a magnificent job of bringing the series to a close. Kohei Horikoshi, the creator of this beloved franchise, gave it his all to give fans a satisfying conclusion.

This monumental occasion was celebrated by the author with a moving and memorable afterword in which he addresses his readers. The letter thanks fans for the many years of support they gave him, revealing how the continuous support of the fandom helped him alleviate his anxiety.

Horikoshi Thanks Fans For Giving Him a Reason to Continue

The Author Revealed He Doubted His Abilities

In the afterword found in volume #42 of the My Hero Academia manga, Horikoshi thanked fans for accompanying him on his journey. Through the decade in which the series remained in publication, millions of fans followed Deku’s journey to become the greatest hero in the world. In a surprisingly short time, the story created by Horikoshi went from a small shonen manga to one of the biggest franchises in the world. In his letter, the author reveals that he could not be happier or more thankful to fans for making this possible.

You guys give me so much strength.

Every time you root for my characters, I move into a higher gear and go like "You can do it! You can do even better!"

- Kohei Horikoshi.

Horikoshi begins by revealing that he used to live in constant anxiety while working in the series, always questioning his choices and abilities. The creator used to wonder if any given chapter would be able to surpass the quality of his first, fearing that at some point fans would abandon him and his character. This constant pressure was greatly alleviated thanks to the support of his fans who would never miss a chance of reminding him how much they loved his manga. He thanked his fans for giving him the confidence and strength to keep going.

Lastly, the author compared the support of his fans to fuel, essential for the progress of the series to remain consistent. Horikoshi hoped that his manga could have the same effect on readers, helping them to keep going even during the hardest of times. It is an extremely emotive message that lets followers of his work know how much he appreciates them. This letter is an amazing parting gift from Horikoshi to the fans, one that will be difficult for his readers to forget.

Other Beloved Creators Were Also Mentioned

Horikoshi’s Inspirations Made A Cameo

One of the details about Horikoshi’s afterword that caught fans’ attention was the inclusion of references to other iconic shonen series. The creator of My Hero Academiacompared his unusual luck with Yuji Itadori, from Jujutsu Kaisen, landing a Black Flash. This powerful technique is not something that can be controlled, as using it consciously is nearly impossible. Horikoshi’s words could be interpreted as a congratulatory message to Gege Akutami, Jujutsu Kaisen’s creator, for having finished his series recently as well.

I can never believe in myself, it's like I ate the Weak-Weak Fruit.

- Kohei Horikoshi.

Similarly, the letter contains a reference to one of the titans of shonen manga, One Piece. Horikoshi claimed that his weak physical condition, which caused him to become sick several times as the story progressed, was caused by the Weak-Weak Fruit. This fake item was a clear reference to Eiichiro Oda’s Devil Fruits, legendary treasures that grant those who eat them special abilities. While not the only ones, these franchises have often been cited by Horikoshi as inspirations for his work, making their addition during his final message much more significant.

Volume #42’s Afterword Continues The Message Of The Series

Every Fan Was Vital For The Story To Continue

One of the core tenets of the My Hero Academia series is that anyone can change the world, as even the smallest actions can have enormous repercussions. This was seen best during the Final War arc of the series, which gave even the smallest of side characters a chance to shine as they participated in All For One’s downfall. This heartwarming message is one of the traits that makes this series so special, not only for fans but for the author as well. Horikoshi’s afterword continues spreading this message by highlighting fans’ contributions.

By letting fans know that their support was essential to keep him motivated and confident in his abilities, the author has made them aware of their invaluable contributions. They may not have been the ones writing or drawing the series, but having their encouragement proved to Horikoshi that his manga was worth continuing. If not for the readers, the story of this outstanding franchise might have never been concluded. Events like Deku’s epic final battle or his recently confirmed relationship with Uraraka would not have been depicted.

My Hero Academia’s Lessons Will Accompany Fans Forever

Few Manga Can Compete With Its Influence

Fans of the My Hero Academia manga know just how special its teachings and values are. Horikoshi’s work is filled with lessons that fans should never forget, from helping others without requiring any compensation to not judging someone for their origins. It is an outstanding story that has undoubtedly left a mark on the lives of millions of fans all around the globe. Deku’s story might have come to an end, but the memories readers made with him and his friends will remain.

Volume #42’s afterword might signify the end of an era, but it was an amazing parting gift from the creator. Fans should truly celebrate the effort Horikoshi put into every single chapter of this beloved series, one whose success and popularity will be hard for other manga to achieve. Nonetheless, as long as fans keep the lessons found in its pages alive and remember their favorite moments with care, the fire left ignited by Deku will keep burning bright for decades to come.

Saying goodbye to a series as amazing and special as My Hero Academia can be a heartbreaking experience. Yet, the series will not go anywhere and fans will always have the option to relieve their favorite entries whenever they like.

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9.4/10

My Hero Academia

Action

Superhero

Animation

In My Hero Academia, some humans have superpowers called quirks. Izuku Midoriya, nicknamed Deku, is not one of them. Deku has always idolized heroes like the number one hero, All Might, and since he was a child, he has always wanted to be a hero. However, his lack of a quirk has always held him back, but a chance encounter with All Might after discovering a classmate in danger sets Deku on the path to becoming a true hero. My Hero Academia centers around Deku and a class of heroes-in-training at UA. This school shapes young quirk users into future heroes through fake rescue missions, combat training, and other hero-tempering tasks. With young Deku inheriting the "One-For-All" quirk, he will learn what it means to be a true hero while facing off with dastardly supervillains.

Release Date

April 3, 2016

Seasons

7

Streaming Service(s)

Hulu , Crunchyroll

Franchise

My Hero Academia

Production Company

Bones