Evangelion singer boycotts event due to use of artificial intelligence images and expresses solidarity with other artists

Yoko Takahashi, best known as the singer of the opening theme for Neon Genesis Evangelionhas canceled her participation in the upcoming Ikebukuro Animation Philharmonic concert, which was scheduled to take place in Tokyo on July 10. The A Cruel Angel’s Thesis singer announced on June 19 that she would not perform at the concert due to the use of a generative AI image on the event poster, Nikkan Sports reported.

In the message on her official X account announcing her withdrawal from the event, Yoko Takahashi stated that the event managers’ stance (on the use of generative AI) contradicted her feelings on the matter as an artist. Although some commenters were disappointed that they would not see her perform, many simultaneously supported her decision to stand up for other creators. “I have the deepest respect for Takahashi-san for making this brave decision and for respecting all creators and their fans,” said one commenter.

The Ikebukuro Animation Philharmonic subsequently responded with a lengthy apology message to all commenters who had called the poster image AI-generated, as well as to Takahashi and all the fans who had been looking forward to seeing her perform. “We are ashamed that we were not sufficiently aware of the recent issues surrounding generative AI, despite being an orchestra that loves anime,” they stated.

The orchestra has since replaced the picture with one drawn by a human artist and is offering a refund of tickets to anyone who no longer wishes to participate.