Hajime Isayama regrets the controversial ending of Attack on Titan
Intelligence Summary
- Attack on Titan creator Hajime Isayama reflects on the series’ controversial ending and Eren Yeager.
Hajime Isayama regrets the controversial ending of Attack on Titan
Attack on Titan, one of the most popular anime and manga series, came to a controversial end in 2021. The series’ creator, Hajime Isayama, has recently expressed regret over how the story concluded, especially the role of main character Eren Yeager. The comments surfaced through a plaque at the Attack on Titan Museum in Japan, where Isayama shared his feelings about the finale.
The controversy around the ending
The Attack on Titan manga ended with a story that not only surprised fans, but also drew a wave of criticism. Eren Yeager, who was initially seen as a hero, ultimately turns to mass destruction in an attempt to protect his own people. That unexpected twist sparked a wide range of negative reactions from fans, many of whom struggled to accept the protagonist’s transformation into a mass murderer.
Isayama’s regret
In his statement on the museum plaque, Isayama said he does indeed feel a "sense of insincerity" about the series’ conclusion. He spoke candidly about his younger self, describing his decisions and the creation of Eren’s character as a product of his "immaturity and stupidity." He explained that part of the intent behind the story was to create a dramatic twist where the victim becomes the perpetrator.
Eren Yeager and his development
Eren underwent a complex evolution throughout the series. His transformation from hero to a figure responsible for mass murder was difficult for many to process. Isayama noted that he initially felt a connection to Eren, but as Eren drifted further away from heroism, he began to see that connection as problematic. The decision to also give Eren a degree of sympathy contributed to Isayama’s sense of insincerity about the ending.
Timeline
2021: The Attack on Titan manga ends with a controversial finale that draws heavy criticism.
April 2026: Hajime Isayama expresses regret over the ending via a plaque at the Attack on Titan Museum.
April 2026: Isayama discusses the sense of insincerity in Eren’s character and the choices he made as a young creator.
Despite the controversy, Attack on Titan remains an influential and beloved series, with continued interest in both the manga and the anime. Isayama’s honesty about his regret may help fans better understand the artistic choices made while creating this complex world.
