White Fox Acquisition by AlphaPolis Sparks Concerns Over Re:ZERO’s Future
The recent acquisition of animation studio White Fox by publisher AlphaPolis has stirred intense debate among anime fans — particularly those worried about the future of Re:ZERO -Starting Life in Another World-. Many fear that the new ownership could shift the studio’s focus toward adapting AlphaPolis’ own light novel catalog, which has a mixed track record when it comes to anime adaptations.
What Happened to White Fox
White Fox is the studio behind popular titles such as Steins;Gate, Akame ga Kill!, and of course, Re:ZERO. The company was recently acquired in full by AlphaPolis, which now holds 100% of its shares and voting rights.
This move has raised concerns because AlphaPolis owns several intellectual properties and has publicly expressed interest in turning them into anime. Fans worry that ongoing projects like Re:ZERO might be sidelined in favor of new adaptations.
On August 3, a Twitter user openly criticized Gaku Iwasa, suggesting he should retire and claiming his decisions had harmed Re:ZERO’s growth. According to the critic, the series never reached the same mainstream popularity as titles like One Piece due to Iwasa’s outdated approach.
Another fan voiced concern that AlphaPolis would prioritize its own works over Re:ZERO, questioning whether there were still guarantees for the anime’s continuation if Iwasa stepped away from leadership.
Gaku Iwasa Responds About Re:ZERO’s Future
In response, Iwasa offered a reassuring statement:
“As for Re:ZERO, I intend to continue until the end unless Kadokawa or Nagatsuki-sensei release me. Even if something happens, I will ensure a proper transition, so please don’t worry.”
Iwasa emphasized that his main motivation was never profit. He explained that the sale was intended to support White Fox Izukogen, a new initiative aimed at training the next generation of animators.
The Bigger Picture in the Anime Industry
The AlphaPolis acquisition is part of a broader trend in the Japanese anime market. Publishers are increasingly investing in their own production capabilities to gain more creative and commercial control over their IPs.
For example, Edia, owner of Hifumi Shobo (publisher of Chronicles of an Aristocrat Reborn in Another World), has announced major investments to adapt both its own works and external projects.
While the initial news sparked uncertainty, Iwasa’s comments indicate that he remains committed to Re:ZERO’s continuation, even under AlphaPolis’ ownership. Fans may still have reasons to be cautious, but for now, the creator behind White Fox says the series’ future is secure.
