Hayao Miyazaki‘s renowned Japanese animation studio, Studio Ghibli, is set to become a subsidiary of Nippon Television Network Corp.
Ghibli President Toshio Suzuki, who is also known as the producer of Miyazaki’s works, reveals that the anime studio will work on TV shows in the future. In a statement, Suzuki shared, “We will entrust all management to Nippon Television and concentrate on creating the works. We will not only produce movies, but also the possibility of producing TV series.”
Initially, the negotiations for deal took place last year at an “onsen” hot springs. During this meeting, Suzuki approached Nippon TV executive Yoshikuni Sugiyama, seeking assistance in managing Ghibli. Sugiyama, in response, pledged his support.
As for the succession plan, Goro Miyazaki, the son of Hayao Miyazaki and an accomplished animation director himself, has been considered a potential successor. However, he had expressed reservations, citing the immense responsibility associated with the role.
Notably, Ghibli and Nippon TV have a history of collaboration dating back to 1985 when Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind aired on TV. Nippon TV has also been involved in the production of various Ghibli works, with their partnership commencing with Kiki’s Delivery Service in 1989.
Additionally, Nippon TV played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Ghibli Museum dedicated to Ghibli’s works in Tokyo.
