George Wada, the president of WIT Studio and Production I.G, has publicly called for the creation of a Japanese-run anime awards show, sparking renewed debate about the Crunchyroll Anime Awards and the recognition structure within the global anime industry.

A Call for Japanese Recognition

Speaking in a recent interview, Wada — who leads two of Japan's most prominent animation studios (WIT Studio behind Attack on Titan Seasons 1-3, Ranking of Kings, and the upcoming The One Piece remake, and Production I.G behind Ghost in the Shell and Haikyu!!) — argued that the Japanese anime industry would benefit from its own dedicated awards ceremony that properly reflects the domestic industry's values and standards.

The timing of Wada's comments coincides with renewed criticism of the Crunchyroll Anime Awards, which held its 10th anniversary ceremony in Tokyo on May 22. While the event has grown significantly — featuring The Weeknd as a presenter and a performance by the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra — critics have long argued that the awards favor popularity and Western tastes over artistic and technical merit within the Japanese industry.

Industry Reactions

Wada's proposal has resonated across the anime community. Proponents argue that a Japanese awards show could:

  • Better recognize the technical craft of Japanese animators, directors, and production staff.
  • Focus on categories that reflect the Japanese industry's distinct production culture.
  • Provide a counterbalance to Western-dominated awards that often overlook smaller, art-house productions.

However, questions remain about organization — who would fund and administer such an awards show, what criteria would be used, and how it would coexist with existing events like the Tokyo Anime Award Festival (TAAF) and the Japan Media Arts Festival.

What This Means for the Industry

Wada's position as head of two major studios gives his call significant weight. As both a producer and executive who has worked on globally successful titles, his perspective bridges the domestic Japanese production side with the international distribution side of the industry. Whether this leads to concrete action or remains a talking point will be closely watched as the industry continues to navigate its growing global presence.