Crunchyroll Faces Backlash Over AI-Generated Subtitles

Crunchyroll, the largest anime streaming platform, has faced backlash after viewers discovered AI-generated subtitles in 'Necronomico and the Cosmic Horror Show,' with a German subtitle line explicitly referencing ChatGPT and numerous translation errors. This controversy has intensified due to previous statements from Crunchyroll leadership downplaying AI use in creative processes, despite admitting to experimenting with generative AI for subtitling. Fans are concerned about the erosion of translation quality and human creative jobs, fueling debates within the anime community. The issue is further highlighted by the emergence of new AI-powered tools like AI Ease's subtitle remover and TranscribeGlass, which are rapidly transforming how subtitles are managed and displayed across the industry. As trust wanes and fans seek alternative subtitle sources, Crunchyroll is under increasing pressure to clarify its AI policies and improve translation oversight. The platform has not yet officially addressed the full extent of its AI use in translations.