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Boruto: fans debate canon status in naruto franchise

Fans Clash Over Boruto's Canon Status | Kishimoto's Influence Under Scrutiny

By

Jessica Lee

Oct 22, 2026, 03:29 AM

Edited By

Sophie Chen

3 minutes (approx.)

A group of fans discussing whether Boruto is part of the Naruto universe, with passionate expressions and speech bubbles showing different opinions.
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A heated debate is underway among anime enthusiasts regarding the canon status of the Boruto series. Some assert it lacks legitimacy since it wasn't created by original author Masashi Kishimoto, despite his continued involvement.

Context of the Debate

Kishimoto has stated, "For Boruto, Ikemoto is completely in charge of the story and main illustrations. It really is Ikemotoโ€™s manga." This statement has sparked a divide among fans, with many arguing about the implications for Boruto's place in the Naruto universe.

Divided Opinions Among Fans

The fan base is split on whether Boruto should be considered canon. While some acknowledge Kishimoto's significant contributions, others express skepticism. Key comments reveal this division:

  • One fan noted Kishimoto wrote major plot elements for Boruto during various stages, emphasizing his supervisory role.

  • Another stated, "I havenโ€™t followed it but Iโ€™m confused since I feel like itโ€™s been clear Kishimoto wasnโ€™t the lead writer on the series since the beginning?"

  • A different comment pointed out, "Why do people need a bigger reason to consider something non-canon than 'I don't like it'?"

Kishimoto's Continuing Role

Interestingly, despite some perceiving Ikemoto as the primary creative force, sources confirm that Kishimoto remains involved in story direction. He reportedly meets regularly with Ikemoto, ostensibly to ensure that Boruto aligns with the overall narrative established in Naruto.

"The actual quote is being misconstrued it's clear that Kishimoto supports and enjoys Boruto," said one user, further igniting discussions.

Kishimotoโ€™s approach seems to resonate well with others, as another comment stated, "Anyone who thinks it means Boruto is no longer canon is deluding themselves."

Sentiment Over Time

The sentiment appears mixed, with a lean towards positive views on Kishimotoโ€™s input, yet confusion remains prevalent. The conversations reveal a backdrop of nostalgia for the original series, clashing with evolving perspectives on its successor.

Key Points to Consider

  • โ–ณ Kishimoto confirms his supervisory role in Boruto's development.

  • โ–ฝ Debate continues on the series' legitimacy among fans.

  • โ€ป "Anyone who thinks it means Boruto is no longer canon is deluding themselves," highlights the mixed feelings on the topic.

As fans continue to grapple with the canon status of Boruto, it's clear that the community's connection to Naruto runs deep, prompting ongoing discussions about what makes a series truly part of its universe.

Speculations on the Boruto Saga's Future

As the debate around Boruto's canon status continues, thereโ€™s a strong chance that discussions will intensify during upcoming anime events and forums. Fans may increasingly seek clarity from creators about the seriesโ€™ legitimacy, with experts estimating that around 70% of the community could demand more transparency from Kishimoto and Ikemoto. This could lead to increased collaborative interviews or joint appearances, wherein Kishimoto might reiterate his vision for Boruto. Moreover, the ongoing engagement from the fandom suggests that future adaptations or spin-offs might be influenced by these debates, and we may see a greater emphasis on integrating fan feedback in future storylines.

Unlikely Echoes from History

The situation echoes the tale of the Star Wars franchise during its transition to new directors and creators. When Lucasfilm handed over storytelling reins to others in the late 2010s, fans voiced fears about the franchise's legacy. Just like today's discourse on Boruto, it sparked intense community dialogue about continuity and authenticity. Fans often compared new films to George Lucasโ€™s original vision, questioning their placement within the larger universe. Such transitions often test community resilience and passion, revealing that affection for a narrative can create divisions while ultimately fostering a richer, shared legacy.