The renowned anime studio Gainax, the original creator of Neon Genesis Evangelion, was formally dissolved on December 10, 2025. It was founded in 1984 and has been an important part of anime history in Japan and around the world.
The studio began to decline in 2012 due to poor management, failed business plans, and large debts. The situation worsened after the 2019 arrest of former president Tomohiro Maki, which caused the company to cease operations altogether.
Following the bankruptcy in May 2024, the protection of the studio's works has become a major issue. Hideaki Anno, co-founder of Gainax and creator of Evangelion, issued a statement through Studio Khara. According to him, the rights and materials have been properly transferred to the rightful owner, but he remains sad and regretful over the end of an anime legend.
