WIT Studio has issued an apology following the broadcast of the first episode of Ascendance of a Bookworm Part 3: Adopted Daughter of an Archduke, admitting to the use of generative AI in parts of the opening sequence's background art. The studio has pledged to redraw the affected scenes and will replace the opening with a completed version starting with the second episode.
The studio stated that while exploring new technologies, it generally prohibits generative AI in its productions, with the exception of an experimental project. This incident, they explained, was due to shortcomings in their production management and inspection protocols, and they are taking full responsibility. WIT Studio confirmed that no other instances of generative AI use have been found in the anime, and that the art director and background art studio NAM HAI ART were not implicated.
Fans initially raised concerns on social media after the April 4th premiere, noting visual cues indicative of AI generation in the opening. The Ascendance of a Bookworm anime adapts Miya Kazuki's light novel series and is set to run for two consecutive cours. The current season features returning voice actors Yuka Iguchi as Rozemyne and Show Hayami as Ferdinand, with Yoshiaki Iwasaki directing at WIT Studio.
