Illustrator Change Announced for Guild Receptionist

In the wake of serious allegations involving artist Gaou, Japanese publisher Dengeki Bunko has officially announced that the light novel “Guild Receptionist” (Japanese: Guild no Uketsukejou desu ga, Zangyou wa Iya nanode Boss wo Solo Toubatsu Shiyou to Omoimasu) will continue with a new illustrator starting from its next volume.

This decision follows accusations that Gaou had inappropriate relationships with a minor at the ages of 14 and 17 — a situation that has sparked major backlash and professional consequences across the anime and publishing industries.

Illustrator Change Announced for Guild Receptionist

Dengeki stated the following:

“To Our Readers,
Thank you for your continued support of “Guild Receptionist, But I’ll Solo the Boss to Avoid Overtime.”

We would like to inform you that starting with the next volume, the series will feature a new illustrator. We sincerely apologize for any concern this may have caused.

We will ensure that the new illustrator treats the characters with the same level of care and quality you’ve come to expect. We deeply appreciate your understanding and ongoing support.

— Dengeki Bunko”

Who Is Gaou and What Happens Next?

Guild Receptionist tells the story of a young woman working as a guild receptionist who hates overtime. To reduce her workload, she takes matters into her own hands—by slaying monsters herself. The series quickly became popular, in no small part due to Gaou’s vibrant and distinctive illustrations.

However, following the public scandal involving his alleged misconduct with a minor, his role in the project has come to an end. Up to now, eight volumes of the light novel had been published with Gaou’s artwork. From Volume 9 onward, a new illustrator will take over.

Many fans have praised Gaou’s artistic skill, but given the severity of the situation—including betraying both his family and professional responsibilities—his removal from current and upcoming projects was seen as inevitable.