Who is Hayao Miyazaki? Studio Ghibli Legend’s Viral Critique Sparks Global Debate

Renowned Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki has once again expressed his strong opposition to AI-generated animation, calling it an “insult to life itself.”

His old video criticizing AI has resurfaced and is now going viral on social media amid the rising trend of users generating Studio Ghibli-style images using OpenAI’s GPT-4o model.

Who is Hayao Miyazaki?

Born on January 5, 1941, in Tokyo, Japan, Miyazaki is one of the world’s most celebrated animation directors. He began his career as an animator at Toei Douga in 1963 and later gained worldwide fame for his manga series Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, which was adapted into an animated film.

On June 15, 1985, Miyazaki co-founded Studio Ghibli alongside Isao Takahata and Toshio Suzuki under Tokuma Shoten. The studio, headquartered in Kichijōji, Japan, became a global powerhouse in animation, producing critically acclaimed films such as Spirited Away, My Neighbor Totoro, and Porco Rosso.

Miyazaki’s AI Rant Resurfaces Amid Backlash

As AI-generated Ghibli-style images flood social media, many fans and critics have raised concerns about copyright issues and artistic integrity. Amid the controversy, an old video of Miyazaki rejecting AI animation has resurfaced, sparking widespread discussion.

In the clip, Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli producer Toshio Suzuki were shown an AI system developed to create odd and unnatural movements for animated characters. The demonstration featured a grotesque, zombie-like motion, which was presented as a new creative possibility for animation.

However, Miyazaki was deeply unimpressed. He shared a personal story about a disabled friend who struggles with basic movements due to stiff muscles. Seeing the AI-generated motion reminded him of his friend’s struggle, which he found deeply unsettling.

Miyazaki’s Statement Against AI in Animation

Expressing his disappointment, Miyazaki stated:

“Whoever creates this stuff has no idea what pain is whatsoever.”

He further declared:

“I am utterly disgusted. If you really want to make creepy stuff, you can go ahead and do it. I would never wish to incorporate this technology into my work at all.”

AI Developers Respond

In response to Miyazaki’s harsh critique, the designers behind the AI project clarified that it was only an experiment and that they did not intend to use it for commercial purposes.

Miyazaki’s Legacy in Traditional Animation

Miyazaki has long been a vocal advocate for traditional hand-drawn animation, emphasizing the importance of human emotions and artistic craftsmanship in storytelling. His films continue to inspire millions worldwide, and his opposition to AI highlights his dedication to preserving the essence of authentic animation