Hideaki Anno Teases "New Evangelion" and "New Yamato" as Studio Khara Celebrates 20th Anniversary

On May 17, the renowned animation studio Khara celebrated its 20th anniversary. To mark the occasion, Hideaki Anno, the studio's founder and representative director, shared a message via the company’s official social media accounts that has sent shockwaves through the fan community: he expressed his ambition to produce both "New Evangelion" and "New Yamato" projects.

In his commemorative post, Anno stated, "I will continue to work hard on creating things like the new Evangelion and the new Yamato, among others." This mention of a "New Evangelion" has come as a massive surprise to fans worldwide, as the series was widely considered to have reached its definitive conclusion with the 2021 release of Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time.

Social media erupted with reactions ranging from disbelief to pure joy. "Is this the first time we've actually heard the phrase 'New Eva'?" one user questioned, while another remarked, "I have one more reason to keep living." Alongside the excitement, speculation regarding the production staff is rampant. Rumors are swirling about potential directorial roles for Kazuya Tsurumaki or Toko Yatabe, possible script involvement from Yoko Taro, and even a potential collaboration with CloverWorks. Fans are also debating whether the new project will feature a completely new cast of characters or if the iconic original pilots will return in some symbolic capacity.

The anniversary celebration also featured a stunning new illustration of the long-haired Rei Ayanami, which has further fueled the hype. With messages of support and anticipation pouring in, all eyes are once again on Studio Khara as it embarks on this next chapter for two of Japan's most legendary sci-fi franchises.

The context

Studio Khara was founded in 2006 by Hideaki Anno after he left Gainax, the studio where he originally created the 1995 television sensation Neon Genesis Evangelion. Khara's primary mission was the production of the Rebuild of Evangelion tetralogy, a cinematic reimagining of the original story. The fourth and final film, released in 2021, was marketed with the tagline "Bye-bye, all of Evangelion," leading most to believe the franchise was over for Anno. However, his recent comments suggest that the world of Evangelion—alongside his lifelong passion for Space Battleship Yamato—remains a creative priority for the studio's future.