Chainsmoker Cat Anime Studio CEO Says Low Pay and Excessive Overtime Are No Longer the Industry Norm

The Japanese anime industry has long faced criticism over low wages, excessive overtime and difficult working conditions, particularly for young animators and production staff. However, Motoki Tanaka, founder and CEO of Bibury Animation Studios, believes the situation is beginning to change. Tanaka, also known as Tensho, recently discussed the industry’s working environment while addressing aspiring anime creators on X. According to Tanaka, animators and production coordinators have seen meaningful improvements in recent years, including better pay, more reliable salary payments,…