Hideaki Anno, the creator of the iconic anime Neon Genesis Evangelion, has expressed his deep disappointment following the official dissolution of Gainax, the influential animation studio he co-founded in the early 1980s. Anno announced the closure on December 10, 2025, outlining the studio's troubled history marked by financial scandals and mismanagement. Gainax achieved immense success with Evangelion in 1995 but struggled thereafter, leading to bankruptcy in 2024. Anno reflected on a lack of respect for creative work during its liquidation and his personal disillusionment with former colleagues.

What led to the downfall of Gainax?

Gainax's decline was primarily due to financial mismanagement, including a notorious tax fraud scandal involving its president and subsequent lawsuits concerning unpaid debts and rights to creative works. Anno's statement highlighted a betrayal of trust between him and former associates while emphasizing the importance of preserving the studio's creative legacy.

Neon Genesis Evangelion, released in 1995, revolutionized the mecha anime genre and remains a cultural phenomenon worldwide. It addressed complex themes and introduced a darker approach to storytelling, which has heavily influenced the anime industry. Gainax's struggles, particularly post-Evangelion's success, illustrate the challenges faced by creative entities in maintaining integrity and financial stability within the entertainment industry.