Legal Debate Ignited By AI Image Inspired By Studio Ghibli

Ghibli AI’s Potential Lawsuit Against OpenAI

Background of Ghibli AI and OpenAI

Ghibli AI is reportedly considering legal action against OpenAI due to an image generated by OpenAI’s AI model, which was launched on March 25, 2025. This model received significant attention after producing an image styled after Studio Ghibli, a renowned Japanese animation studio known for iconic films like Spirited Away and Howl’s Moving Castle. Studio Ghibli, founded in 1985, has established itself with its distinctive hand-drawn animation style, characterized by vibrant colors and engaging characters that often evoke a sense of nostalgia.

The Controversy Surrounding AI-generated Images

The rapid spread of an AI-generated image inspired by Ghibli’s style has sparked a heated debate. Many artists and fans have expressed concerns about the implications of using AI to replicate styles that are closely associated with real artists. Critics argue that such practices can blur the line between artistry and digital reproduction, raising issues of copyright and potential plagiarism. As the conversation intensified, calls for legal scrutiny have emerged, questioning whether such actions can indeed warrant a lawsuit.

Legal Grounds for Potential Action

An interview with legal expert Rob Rosenberg, founder of Telluride Legal Strategies, sheds light on the legal dimensions of this issue. He explains two possible bases for Ghibli’s potential lawsuit against OpenAI:

Violation of the Lanham Act:
The Lanham Act, enacted in 1946, primarily focuses on trademark protection, false advertising, and unfair competition. It allows brands to take legal action if they feel that another entity is misusing their trademark in a way that might confuse consumers. Rosenberg suggests that if OpenAI’s tool misleads users into thinking Ghibli endorses or supports the generated images, then it could be susceptible to legal action based on this act.
Use of Copyrighted Work for AI Training:
Another avenue Rosenberg notes is the potential infringement arising from training an AI system on copyrighted material. If an AI is taught to replicate a specific artistic style that belongs to a studio, it could be seen as infringing on that studio’s intellectual property, essentially appropriating their brand.