Tonari Animation, the US-based outsourcing studio that contributed to anime like One Piece, Black Clover, Spy × Family, and My Hero Academia, has officially announced its closure. The studio, which was in operation for four years, attributed its shutdown to financial challenges and market pressures, according to an official statement by founder Jarrett Martin on X/Twitter.
One Piece (Credits: Toei Animation)
Despite these claims, insiders and industry observers point to a series of controversies that likely contributed to the company’s downfall. Allegations of unethical practices, such as the use of AI in creative processes and involvement in NFTs, have marred the studio’s reputation. Tonari also reportedly accrued a $200,000 tax debt with the IRS, further complicating its financial position.
Adding to its troubled history, the studio faced significant backlash for launching a $1,000 anime production course, which was abruptly canceled. Dissatisfaction among assistant producers over low pay and subpar working conditions also tainted the company’s image. Reports claim some positions at Tonari offered wages lower than those at convenience stores, fueling criticism of its labor practices.
The controversy extended beyond internal issues. Tonari Animation reportedly refused to hire foreigners, despite its founder being one. Additionally, Jarrett Martin’s public remarks, which many considered unprofessional, on emotional posts from creators at other studios only amplified the negative perception of both the studio and its leadership.
Black Clover (Credits: Viz Media)
Tonari Animation’s closure has not spelled the end of Martin’s career in the anime industry. The company will now rebrand as “Creative Freaks,” with Martin stepping into the role of Creative Director. He plans to establish a “Sakuga Division” within the new organization, emphasizing sustainable support for Japanese animation and applying lessons from Tonari’s missteps.
Tonari’s legacy in the anime world remains complex. While it made significant contributions to more than 80 anime productions, its closure highlights ongoing issues in the industry, from financial sustainability to ethical practices. As Creative Freaks emerges from Tonari’s shadow, the anime community will be watching closely to see if the new venture can rebuild trust and support the industry more responsibly.
In a magical world, Asta, born without magic, competes with his prodigious rival, Yuno, to become the next Wizard King. While Yuno wields a four-leaf grimoire, Asta obtains a five-leaf one containing anti-magic. They join Magic Knight squads and navigate challenges from dark forces like the Eye of the Midnight Sun and the Dark Triad, revealing deeper connections to devils and the Clover Kingdom’s history.
R18 anime parodies have surged in popularity, often becoming inevitable additions to trending anime series. However, what recently captured the attention of fans was the participation of Yuuta Suzuhana, a key animator for Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, in an adult animation project by renowned independent creator MapleStar.
Frieren Beyond Journey’s End (Credits: Madhouse)
MapleStar, widely recognized for crafting high-quality R18 adaptations of popular anime, recently a new project titled Fern and Stark Need to Warm Up. The animation, based on Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End, showcases an intimate moment between Fern and Stark. With a runtime of 11 minutes, the preview video released on Twitter/X became an instant sensation, racking up over 5 million views in just a few days.
The real surprise came when Yuuta Suzuhana, who worked on Episodes 14 and 17 of the Frieren anime, confirmed his involvement in the project. Posting on his Twitter/X account, Yuuta revealed it was his first foray into adult animation, expressing gratitude to MapleStar for the opportunity to collaborate.
“This is the first time I’ve shared R18 content like this,” Yuuta wrote. “I had the opportunity to work with MapleStar on this Fern and Stark animation. Thank you for inviting me to the team!” Yuuta’s portfolio includes work on prominent anime titles such as Vinland Saga, Bleach, and Solo Leveling, making his participation in an R18 project an unexpected development for fans.
Frieren Beyond Journey’s End (Credits: Madhouse)
MapleStar, known for pushing the boundaries of adult animation, brought their signature dedication and professionalism to the project. The animation features specialized voice actors and polished visuals, setting a new standard for the genre. Available on MapleStar’s Patreon, Fern and Stark Need to Warm Up has been lauded as the creator’s most ambitious work to date.
The combination of MapleStar’s artistic vision and Yuuta Suzuhana’s animation expertise has turned this project into a viral hit. Fans continue to debate the increasing intersection of mainstream anime talent with adult projects, but the success of this collaboration speaks to the growing popularity and quality of R18 parodies.
