OpenAI CEO Claps Back at Twink Ghibli Troll Art

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The impact of Studio Ghibli on the world of anime is undeniable, with movies like “Spirited Away,” “Princess Mononoke,” and “Howl’s Moving Castle” being iconic in the genre since the 1980s. While other creators have been inspired by Studio Ghibli in a constructive way, it’s regrettable that contemporary fans sometimes mimic their unique art style using AI software as a form of mockery or online harassment.

Observing here, it’s me reporting on the latest development from OpenAI, the noteworthy software firm known for ChatGPT. In a matter of seconds after unveiling their newest image generator, users started creating images that were inappropriate and offensive, often directed towards OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, as a form of online harassment. Post-launch, Altman himself stepped into the digital arena to address this unwelcome wave of trolling on social media platforms.

OpenAI’s CEO Addresses Online Trolling & Studio Ghibli “Twink” Art

On the social media platform X (previously known as Twitter), Sam Altman expressed his views on the evolving public image of OpenAI as a company, and the unusual, awkward AI-generated images he has received from users recently. His post, formatted for clarity, resembled a line of software code, stating, “Be me, work tirelessly for a decade to develop superintelligence with the aim of curing cancer or similar causes, receive little attention for the first 7.5 years, then face intense criticism for 2.5 years, only to wake up one day to hundreds of messages: ‘Look what I made you into, a twink in the style of Ghibli animation, haha.'”

With the post, Sam Altman updated his profile picture on X, likely switching it to one of the “twink Ghibli-esque” designs he received. Over the last few days, social media has been buzzing with ChatGPT users sharing Studio Ghibli and anime-themed images on their timelines. Some are heartwarming, such as replicas of family photos. However, being the internet, it’s also filled with individuals using the software to reimagine some of history’s most somber moments in a style reminiscent of Hayao Miyazaki’s work.

For over a decade, I tirelessly worked on developing superintelligence with the hope of finding cures for diseases like cancer. For the initial 7.5 years, my efforts went largely unnoticed. Then, for the next 2.5 years, I faced widespread criticism and hatred. One morning, I was inundated with messages saying things like, “Look what I’ve done! I turned you into a twink in the style of Studio Ghibli!”

— Sam Altman (@sama) March 26, 2025

The Rise of AI in Anime

In much the same way that various art forms spark discussion, the advent of AI is a significant topic within Japan’s anime community. Not only does AI enable fans to swiftly generate personalized anime images, but its application in producing anime itself has stirred intense debate among professionals and enthusiasts alike.

2021 marks the debut of the first AI-driven anime series airing on Japanese television, titled Twins Hinahima. The show is helmed by director Iizuka Naomichi, who has defended his choice to employ generative AI in the creation process. At a recent event at Niigata’s 3rd Animation Festival in Niigata City (via Pia), Naomichi explained that using AI is similar to animators drawing inspiration from their favorite shows. “Anime production is essentially imitation,” he stated, adding that animators must often mimic character designs, and designers must emulate key drawings. This is the foundation of anime creation, but as opportunities for animator’s creative input decreases, it becomes increasingly important for them to follow instructions.

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2025-03-27 17:10