Evangelion Studio Gainax Shocks Fans with Bankruptcy News

Gainax, the renowned Japanese anime studio behind iconic series such as Neon Genesis Evangelion, has declared bankruptcy after enduring years of mismanagement and financial troubles. Despite producing several successful projects like Gurren Lagann and Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt, the studio's history has been plagued by high-profile financial scandals and legal issues. Former executives reportedly treated the company as their private entity since around 2012, eventually leading to its downfall. On June 7, 2024, the Tokyo District Court accepted Gainax's bankruptcy application. The Gainax trademark is now owned by Studio Khara, founded by Evangelion creator Hideaki Anno. Studio Khara had previously sued Gainax for financial mismanagement, resulting in a court mandate to repay a significant loan.

Gainax faced numerous financial and management issues, including misappropriation of funds by former executives, tax fraud, and legal disputes with other companies and individuals such as a significant lawsuit from Studio Khara. These accumulated issues ultimately led to the studio's bankruptcy.

Neon Genesis Evangelion follows a group of teenagers piloting giant mechs to protect a post-apocalyptic Tokyo from mysterious creatures known as Angels. The series, released in 1995, has had a profound influence on the mecha genre and anime culture. It is praised for its complex characters, psychological depth, and intricate plot, making it one of the best anime series ever created.