{
  "id": 6398673,
  "title": "MAPPA Turns 15: The History and Evolution of the Anime Giant",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/09/mappa-turns-15-the-history-and-evolution-of-the-anime-giant",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-09T08:47:35.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Tokyo Weekender",
    "slug": "tokyo-weekender",
    "url": "https://www.tokyoweekender.com/entertainment/anime-and-manga/mappa-anime-studio-history-and-evolution/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "In 2011, industry veteran Masao Maruyama, a co-founder of Madhouse, left the establishment after nearly 40 years of experience to found his own anime studio, MAPPA. Maruyama's studio aimed to produce works on his own terms, but as it grew, he resigned as CEO in 2016 and became a chairman. MAPPA's first major hit came with Yuri!!! On Ice, a critically acclaimed sports anime that broke new ground in both sports animation and LGBT representation. The anime's success propelled MAPPA into the global spotlight, leading to productions of other major titles such as Jujutsu Kaisen, Attack on Titan, and Chainsaw Man. These projects have cemented MAPPA's legacy as a powerful force in the anime industry, culminating in the successful release of Attack on Titan: The Last Attack and Chainsaw Man - The Movie: Reze Arc. However, MAPPA's rapid growth and increased focus on profitability have also brought to light concerns over working conditions and pay for its animation team.",
  "summary": "Over the past 15 years, MAPPA has grown from an ambitious startup into an undeniable powerhouse in the global anime industry that is recognized for its dynamic animation and cinematic direction. From breakout award-winning hits like Yuri!!! on Ice to internationally raved series like Jujutsu Kaisen, MAPPA has continuously reshaped the landscape of modern anime. […] The post MAPPA Turns 15: The…",
  "key_points": [
    "MAPPA founded in 2011 by Masao Maruyama, former Madhouse co-founder",
    "Yuri!!! On Ice breakthrough hit, expanding MAPPA's global presence",
    "Productions of Jujutsu Kaisen, Attack on Titan, Chainsaw Man cement MAPPA's industry dominance"
  ],
  "editors_take": "MAPPA's rise to prominence in the anime industry marks a shift in the balance of creative control and financial priorities, with implications for both artistic innovation and the welfare of its animation team.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}