What episode is "A Friendly Surprise" in Dragon Ball Z?
"A Friendly Surprise" is episode 43 of Dragon Ball Z.
Spoiler-Safe Summary
safe readWhile searching for Dragon Balls, Gohan, Krillin, and Bulma face unexpected revelations about their allies. At the same time, Vegeta learns about Frieza's plans and hastens to arrive ahead of him, setting the stage for confrontation.
Full Plot Summary
spoilersGohan, Krillin, and Bulma are one Dragon Ball away from making their wish. But during their search for the seventh Dragon Ball, their two Namekian friends reveal that they are not Namekians at all. In fact, they're not even on Namek. Meanwhile, Vegeta learns that Frieza has traveled to Namek to gather the Dragon Balls. Not wanting to be beaten to the punch, Vegeta immediately blasts off for Namek.
Episode FAQ
4 quick answersIs "A Friendly Surprise" canon or filler?
"A Friendly Surprise" is listed as canon in the current AnimeAnchor guide.
What story arc is "A Friendly Surprise" part of?
"A Friendly Surprise" is part of the Namek and Captain Ginyu Sagas.
Can I read this without spoilers?
Yes. Start with the spoiler-safe summary, then reveal the full plot only when you want the complete episode breakdown.
Series Cast
18Browse the main cast connected to this episode guide.
Krillin main 
Piccolo main 
Son Gohan main 
Son Goku main 
Vegeta main 
Android 17 supporting 
Android 18 supporting 
Bardock supporting 
Bulma supporting 
Chiaotzu supporting Master Roshi supporting Pan supporting 
Son Goten supporting Tien Shinhan supporting 
Trunks supporting 
Yamcha supporting Babidi antagonist Burter antagonist Related Movies
6Franchise movie releases are kept separate from the TV episode spine.
Dragon Ball Z: Bardock – The Father of Goku 1990 
Dragon Ball Z: The Tree of Might 1990 
Dragon Ball Z: The World's Strongest 1990 
Dragon Ball Z: The History of Trunks 1991 
Dragon Ball Z: Super Android 13! 1992 
Dragon Ball Z: Bojack Unbound 1993