The absence of Gohan in the latest installment of the Dragon Ball franchise, *Dragon Ball Daima*, has sparked speculation among fans. Kyle Hebert, the English voice actor for adult Gohan, recently shared insights during an interview at the Anime Pasadena convention. Hebert suggested that Gohan’s lack of involvement in *Daima* may ultimately serve the character well.
In the interview with ScreenRant, Hebert noted that Gohan’s absence might have protected him from the fate encountered by other characters, including Goku. *Dragon Ball Daima*, which takes place before the events of *Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero*, features a storyline where Goku and his allies are transformed into younger versions of themselves due to a wish made by a character named Gomah. According to Hebert, “Since *Daima* takes place before *Super Hero*, he wouldn’t have discovered his Beast transformation yet.” He added that Bulma even mentions in the first episode that Gohan is “studying,” implying he is engaged in scholarly pursuits while chaos unfolds around him.
While Hebert humorously speculated that Gohan would have also been transformed into a child had he appeared in *Daima*, he emphasized the character’s current life stage. Gohan recently married and continues to focus on his studies, making his absence from the chaotic narrative justifiable.
Understanding Gohan’s Role in Dragon Ball Daima
The decision to exclude Gohan from *Dragon Ball Daima* appears to be more than a mere plot device. Although the storyline suggests Gohan is busy studying, it is likely that the proximity of *Daima* to *Dragon Ball Super: Super Hero* influenced this choice. The movie prominently featured Gohan, showcasing his growth and introducing his new transformation. Producers may have opted to minimize Gohan’s presence in *Daima* to avoid overexposure, allowing him to maintain a more significant role in the broader narrative.
This strategic decision aligns with historical patterns in the *Dragon Ball* franchise, as creator Akira Toriyama has previously shifted focus away from Gohan to other characters. Gohan’s evolving role reflects ongoing changes within the series, which has frequently adjusted its narrative focus based on audience reception and character development.
Ultimately, Gohan’s absence from *Dragon Ball Daima* does not detract from the series. It allows Goku, Vegeta, and their new allies to confront the challenges posed by Gomah and the antagonists. This ensures that Gohan has the space to pursue his academic interests and enjoy his new marriage without the distractions of battle.
*Dragon Ball Daima* premiered in October 2024, introducing a new adventure where Goku and friends navigate their miniature forms in the Demon Realm. This latest chapter continues to explore the franchise’s themes of friendship, perseverance, and the quest for knowledge, reflecting the diverse interests of its fanbase.
Anime Pasadena, held annually at the Pasadena Convention Center in California, serves as a celebration of anime culture. The event features gaming tournaments, cosplay contests, and various attractions that highlight the vibrant community surrounding anime and pop culture. The 2025 convention took place on November 8-9, showcasing the enduring popularity of franchises like *Dragon Ball*.
