ALBAWABA - After sparking backlash for using AI in the opening of the fourth season of Ascendance of a Bookworm, Wit Studio released a new opening replacing the AI-generated backgrounds with ones drawn by real artists.
Best known for producing renowned anime such as Attack on Titan, Vinland Saga, and Spy x Family, Wit admitted to incorporating AI-generated backgrounds into the opening of Ascendance of a Bookworm.
The renowned anime studio shared a statement that read, "Despite this, the current situation has occurred solely due to shortcomings in our production management and inspection systems."
While initial reports blamed the outsourcing studio NAM HAI ART for the AI-generated backgrounds, director Yoshiaki Iwasaki refuted the claims, stating that the studio had nothing to do with it.
Wit Studio redraws anime opening of Ascendance of a Bookworm after AI accusations
Wit's response was swift since the new opening dropped in episode 2, with many fans of the series stating that the new visuals look better now, thanks to the new backgrounds.
On the contrary, others were not so keen on the change. A social media user wrote, "Its a direct downgrade, ditching ai for menial drawing is just more work for the studio in the same timeframe, which means worse quality in overall for everything."
While Wit Studio quickly fixed the issue after backlash, the damage had already been done, as many fans took to social media with concerns about the studio using AI-generated art in the upcoming One Piece remake. However, many internet users stated that "it's highly unlikely."
How AI might affect the anime industry from now on
Chief Animation Director for Jujutsu Kaisen Season 1 said that "Various studios are already using generative AI while keeping it quiet."
She took to Bluesky and wrote, "Many companies have already implemented methods such as developing storyboards in the style of [Name of creator] and using AI to generate rough drafts for direction corrections. Even if Aniplex says it won't use it, can the production companies that receive orders really stop using it? They're paying money to a tech company, after all."
She added, "Aniplex is a company that develops AI to make more anime! They're a manufacturer, not a creator. So, their claims lack credibility. They probably don't understand production committees very well."
The rise of AI in anime series might also stem from the industry's poor working conditions, including long hours, tight deadlines, and minimal pay. The industry might resort to AI with time constraints and lower pay as the main focus.
