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Here's the part where he's talking about the pairings:
Did you expect such a divided reaction (in the U.S. at least) when you revealed whomNaruto marries in the future?
I actually didn't realize I caused such controversy.
Really? You had no idea?
Mari Morimoto:
So the fans wanted Naruto to get together with Sakura?Well, there's definitely camps of fans who felt that way, and there were also those that were very happy he ended up with Hinata. But there were quite passionate opinions on both sides!
I almost caused a rift in my own household too, because my wife was very upset also that Narutodidn't get together with Sakura. In fact, she complained quite vehemently to me!Jo Otsuki:
Quite few of the female staff at Studio Pierrot that produces the anime, apparently were also upset.Whoah. So how did you handle that, especially with your wife?
I tried to defuse the situation by assuring my wife that SHE was actually the model for Hinata. (laughs)As you were saying that, I thought, I wonder if your family life was more like Hinata andNaruto's family or Sasuke and Sakura's? (everyone laughs)
Masashi Kishiimoto: Well… it might not actually be like either. My wife is quite strong as well, she's a strong character.
Oh, so kind of like Sakura!
So I think my wife might secretly realize that Hinata wasn't really the model for her… (laughs)Did you decide this early on, that Hinata and Naruto would get together in the end, or when…?
From the middle, actually.
From the middle of the story? Hm! What sealed this decision for you?
I think what made me realize it was partly because, if you really look back and think about it, Hinata always supported and acknowledged Naruto, even before Master Iruka. She had the ability to see beyond his reputation and see the true person inside. I think I started realizing that they were meant to be.
