Krillin, the Earthling martial artist and Z Fighter, has met his end several times throughout the Dragon Ball saga. While often a victim of more powerful foes, his deaths serve as pivotal moments, pushing Goku and others to surpass their limits. Krillin dies several times across the various Dragon Ball series, notably in Dragon Ball Z, episode 85, “Goku’s Rage,” where he is brutally killed by Frieza.
A History of Krillin’s Mortality
Krillin, despite lacking Saiyan blood or alien heritage, has consistently fought alongside Goku and the other Z Fighters, often facing enemies far beyond his own power level. This bravery, unfortunately, has come at a cost, making him one of the most frequently deceased characters in the Dragon Ball universe. His deaths are not meaningless, however. They consistently act as catalysts for significant power-ups and transformations for the Saiyans, particularly Goku. Analyzing his deaths provides insight into the narrative structure and thematic concerns of the series.
The Frieza Saga: Episode 85 – Goku’s Rage
The Defining Moment: Frieza’s Brutality
Episode 85 of Dragon Ball Z, titled “Goku’s Rage,” is undoubtedly the most iconic and impactful of Krillin’s deaths. Facing the seemingly insurmountable Frieza on Namek, Krillin attempts to assist Gohan and Dende. Frieza, in a display of unimaginable power and cruelty, telekinetically lifts Krillin into the air, causing him to scream in agony before exploding his body. This horrific act, witnessed by Goku, triggers an unparalleled wave of rage and grief within the Saiyan, finally unlocking his dormant Super Saiyan potential. This transformation marks a pivotal turning point in the series, empowering Goku to finally challenge and defeat Frieza. The impact of this death reverberates throughout the rest of the Dragon Ball saga, shaping Goku’s motivations and future battles.
Other Instances of Krillin’s Death
While Episode 85 remains the most significant, it’s important to acknowledge the other times Krillin has perished while defending Earth and its inhabitants.
King Piccolo’s Minion: Tambourine
Krillin’s first on-screen death occurs much earlier, during the original Dragon Ball series. After winning the 21st World Martial Arts Tournament, Krillin is ambushed and murdered by Tambourine, a henchman of the Demon King Piccolo. This event fuels Goku’s own rage and sets him on a path of revenge against King Piccolo, ultimately leading to Goku’s victory and the death of Piccolo.
Super Android 17 Saga: A Brief Demise
While not considered canon by many, Krillin also dies during the Super Android 17 Saga of Dragon Ball GT. He is killed by Super Android 17. This death, while adding to his grim record, lacks the narrative weight of his other demises.
The Significance of Krillin’s Deaths
Krillin’s repeated deaths, although tragic, serve a vital purpose in the Dragon Ball narrative. He represents the strength and resilience of humanity, willing to face overwhelming odds despite lacking the inherent power of Saiyans. He is the average person aspiring to the heights of the superhuman.
Catalyst for Transformation
His deaths, particularly the one at the hands of Frieza, are crucial in pushing Goku and others to surpass their limits. They embody the stakes involved and the sheer power of the villains they face. Without Krillin’s sacrifice, Goku’s Super Saiyan transformation might never have occurred, changing the course of the entire Dragon Ball universe.
Symbol of Human Potential
Krillin’s repeated willingness to fight and protect his friends, even in the face of certain death, underscores the value of courage and determination. He proves that even without superhuman abilities, humans can make a significant difference in the fight against evil. He is the underdog who keeps getting back up.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Krillin’s Deaths
Here are some frequently asked questions about Krillin’s demises in the Dragon Ball universe:
FAQ 1: How many times has Krillin died in Dragon Ball canon?
Krillin has canonically died twice: Once by Tambourine in Dragon Ball, and once by Frieza in Dragon Ball Z. The death in Dragon Ball GT is of questionable canonicity.
FAQ 2: Was Krillin’s death by Frieza the reason Goku became a Super Saiyan?
Yes, Krillin’s death by Frieza was the primary catalyst for Goku’s first Super Saiyan transformation. The immense rage and grief Goku felt witnessing the brutal act unlocked his latent power.
FAQ 3: What episode does Tambourine kill Krillin in Dragon Ball?
Tambourine kills Krillin in Dragon Ball episode 101, “The Martial Arts Tournament Begins Again!!”
FAQ 4: Is Krillin revived after each death?
Yes, Krillin is revived after each death using the Dragon Balls. The power of the Dragon Balls allows wishes to be granted, including the restoration of life.
FAQ 5: How does Krillin compare to other characters in terms of deaths?
Krillin is one of the characters with the most deaths in the Dragon Ball franchise. His repeated deaths highlight his vulnerability and the constant threat faced by the Z Fighters.
FAQ 6: What is the significance of Krillin’s recurring deaths for the overall story?
His deaths serve as a dramatic device to raise the stakes, motivate other characters, and emphasize the power of the antagonists. They also demonstrate the resilience of the human spirit.
FAQ 7: How did Krillin die in Dragon Ball GT?
In Dragon Ball GT, Krillin is killed by Super Android 17. This death is not considered canon by many fans.
FAQ 8: What was Krillin doing when Frieza killed him?
Krillin was attempting to assist Gohan and Dende, who were also facing the overwhelming power of Frieza. He attempted to launch a Destructo Disc to aid in the fight.
FAQ 9: Did Krillin’s relationship with Android 18 change how his deaths affected the other Z fighters?
Krillin’s marriage to Android 18 made his deaths even more impactful on the other characters, particularly Gohan, who developed a close bond with his step-mother and Marron. The emotional stakes were higher due to these familial connections.
FAQ 10: Did Krillin’s power level increase significantly after being revived?
While Krillin always trains hard and strives to improve, his power level doesn’t see the exponential growth experienced by Saiyans. His increases are typically due to rigorous training and Zenkai boosts from near-death experiences, although those are less potent than a Saiyan’s.
FAQ 11: How did Goku react to Krillin’s death by Tambourine?
Goku was enraged and driven by a strong desire for revenge. This spurred him to train even harder and ultimately defeat King Piccolo.
FAQ 12: Besides death, what are some of the challenges and hardships Krillin faces in Dragon Ball?
Beyond death, Krillin faces constant challenges in keeping up with the power levels of Saiyans and other more powerful beings. He struggles with feelings of inadequacy but continues to fight bravely alongside his friends. He also deals with the emotional struggles of marriage and fatherhood, facing the responsibility of protecting his family.