Nippon TV to acquire Studio Ghibli after no successor found for Hayao Miyazaki
September 22, 2023
Studio Ghibli has secured its long-term future through an acquisition by Japanese network Nippon TV.
About the acquisition: On Thursday, the two companies agreed that Nippon TV will become the largest shareholder of Studio Ghibli with a 42.3% stake. The network has committed to maintaining the studio’s autonomy and building on its global success.
This acquisition comes after Nippon TV’s long history of supporting Ghibli films and its involvement in setting up the Ghibli Museum in Tokyo. Nippon TV has previously helped produce various Ghibli works, starting with the 1989 film “Kiki’s Delivery Service.”
No successors: The studio, known for its globally acclaimed animated films like “Spirited Away” and “My Neighbor Totoro,” had been grappling with finding a successor for its leadership.
Despite efforts by the studio’s president, Toshio Suzuki, and Miyazaki himself, Goro Miyazaki rejected the idea of taking over in spite of being the renowned Japanese filmmaker’s son.
About Hayao Miyazaki: The 82-year-old artist, who won an Oscar for his 2001 film “Spirited Away,” is considered one of the world’s greatest animators. Miyazaki briefly retired but returned to create what is said to be his final film, “The Boy and the Heron.” However, this might not be his last film as Studio Ghibli Vice President Junichi Nishioka mentioned Miyazaki’s frequent visits to the office with fresh ideas.
Regardless, the recent acquisition agreement ensures the continuation of Studio Ghibli‘s legacy in the world of animation.
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