As the popular manga series Jujutsu Kaisen approaches its conclusion on September 30, 2024, fans are eagerly speculating about the fate of the three main characters. Given the series’ history of putting its protagonists through intense hardships, many readers are bracing themselves for a potentially bittersweet or even tragic ending. Let’s explore why fans are skeptical about a happy resolution for Itadori Yuji, Fushiguro Megumi, and Kugisaki Nobara.
A Journey Marked by Suffering
From the very beginning, Jujutsu Kaisen has been characterized by the intense struggles and traumas faced by its main characters. This consistent theme has led many fans to believe that a traditionally happy ending might not be in store for our heroes.
Itadori Yuji: The Reluctant Vessel
Itadori’s journey began when he became the vessel for Ryomen Sukuna, the series’ main antagonist. This fateful event set off a chain of tragedies in Itadori’s life:
1. The death of his first friend outside Jujutsu Tech, Junpei Yoshino
2. The Shibuya incident, where Sukuna took control and massacred hundreds
3. The loss of several mentor figures and allies
These experiences have left Itadori deeply traumatized, making a completely happy ending seem unlikely for his character.
Fushiguro Megumi: Dreams Shattered
Megumi’s story is equally heart-wrenching:
1. His sole goal was to revive his sister, Tsumiki
2. Tsumiki’s body was possessed by Yorozu, an ancient cursed spirit
3. Megumi himself became Sukuna’s next host
4. Sukuna used Megumi’s own technique to kill Yorozu (Tsumiki)
The loss of his sister and the violation of his body have pushed Megumi into a state of deep depression, leaving fans doubtful about a positive outcome for him.
Kugisaki Nobara: Ambitions Derailed
Nobara’s dream of enjoying a glamorous life in Tokyo took a dark turn:
1. She enrolled as a cursed sorcerer to escape her rural life
2. During the Shibuya arc, she barely survived a confrontation with Mahito
3. Her current status remains uncertain in the manga’s penultimate chapter
Nobara’s brush with death and the unclear nature of her fate have left fans anxious about her ultimate destiny.
The Author’s Trend of Character Suffering
Gege Akutami, the creator of Jujutsu Kaisen, has consistently put his characters through extreme hardships throughout the series. This pattern has led many fans to believe that the final chapter is unlikely to provide a conventionally happy ending for the protagonist trio.
Expectations for the Finale
With only one chapter remaining, fans are tempering their expectations:
1. Limited time for a complete resolution of all character arcs
2. The possibility of an open-ended or ambiguous conclusion
3. Speculation about potential sacrifices or lasting consequences for the main characters
Many readers are preparing themselves for an ending that might be emotionally impactful but not necessarily “happy” in the traditional sense.
The Power of a Bittersweet Ending
While some fans might hope for a last-minute turnaround, others argue that a bittersweet ending could be more fitting for the tone and themes of Jujutsu Kaisen. Such an ending could:
1. Reinforce the series’ exploration of the costs of power and responsibility
2. Provide a realistic conclusion to the characters’ traumatic journeys
3. Leave a lasting impact on readers, encouraging reflection on the story’s deeper messages
Conclusion
As Jujutsu Kaisen prepares to close its final chapter, fans are on the edge of their seats, anticipating an ending that may not be conventionally happy but could be deeply meaningful. The series has never shied away from depicting the harsh realities of its world, and many readers expect the conclusion to stay true to this approach. Whatever the outcome, the journey of Itadori, Megumi, and Nobara has left an indelible mark on the world of manga and its devoted fanbase.