Today, Studio Ghibli president Koji Hoshino has announced his plan to retire. The head of the Japanese animation studio will be replaced by Studio Ghibli co-founder Toshio Suzuki.
In the published letter of resignation, he said, "I, Koji Hoshino, will resign as a director of Studio Ghibli and leave Ghibli at the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting of shareholders in June. Prior to that, I will step down from my position as Studio Ghibli's president and chairman at the end of March, but I will continue to serve as representative director until the general shareholders' meeting."
He added, "Since taking my current post in February 2008, I have been striving to manage the studio for 15 years. With the completion of the film ‘"‘How Do You Live?,' I decided that this was the best time to leave Ghibli. I will entrust the future management to my successor in the hope that he will lead a new Ghibli. On a personal note, I will turn 67 this May. I intend to take on challenges in new fields in the future, making use of my experience and personal connections."
Studio Ghibli has gained worldwide recognition for producing highly popular and critically acclaimed animated films. The studio was established in 1985 by Hayao Miyazaki, Isao Takahata, and Toshio Suzuki, all of whom are renowned filmmakers.
Some of its most renowned productions are "My Neighbor Totoro," "Spirited Away," "Princess Mononoke," and "Howl's Moving Castle." These movies are distinguished by their stunning animation, imaginative settings, and compelling narratives.
In addition to their films, Studio Ghibli is renowned for their iconic mascot, Totoro, who has become a beloved symbol of the studio and Japanese popular culture. They have amassed a vast following worldwide.
