Attack on Titan studio slammed for AI use and it won’t be the last time
WIT Studio, renowned for producing Attack on Titan and the upcoming One Piece remake, faced substantial backlash after deploying generative AI in the opening sequence of Ascendance of a Bookworm, which premiered in early April. The AI-generated content exhibited noticeable visual distortions that viewers quickly identified, sparking widespread fan criticism. In response, WIT Studio issued an apology and committed to replacing the problematic opening with a traditionally produced version.
This incident reflects mounting tension within the anime industry regarding AI adoption. Fan and creator concerns center on maintaining artistic quality and preserving traditional animation practices. WIT Studio’s decision to withdraw the AI-generated opening demonstrates responsiveness to audience feedback, yet highlights that AI implementation in anime production remains contentious among communities that prioritize human artistry.
The controversy occurs amid broader AI integration across entertainment. In late 2025, Amazon experimented with AI-generated dubbing for anime series including Banana Fish in an effort to accelerate production timelines—another initiative that sparked industry discussion. These incidents suggest that AI’s encroachment into anime production, spanning animation and voice acting, continues to generate resistance from creators and audiences alike.
WIT Studio’s action to replace the opening with human-produced work signals acknowledgment that AI-generated content in high-profile anime productions must meet rigorous quality standards to gain audience acceptance.