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Rumors are circulating across anime communities that Shota Goshozono, widely known among fans as Gosso, has parted ways with MAPPA after completing his work on Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 Culling Game Part 1.
While there has been no official confirmation from either Goshozono or the studio at the time of writing, online discussions have quickly gained traction, largely because some rumors claim that he exited due to backlash. However, the clarification attached to the report states that he completed his contractual work on Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 Culling Game Part 1 and chose to leave on his own accord, not as a result of criticism or controversy.
However, the clarification accompanying the rumor states that Goshozono left on his own accord after fulfilling his contractual responsibilities. In other words, his reported departure is not said to be a reaction to criticism, controversy, or production disputes, but rather the natural conclusion of his agreed work on Season 3 Part 1.
Shota Goshozono’s Hands On Approach That Shaped Jujutsu Kaisen
Goshozono’s journey with Jujutsu Kaisen stretches back to Season 1, where he was already a notable creative presence. During the first season, he contributed storyboard work for Episode 17, served as Episode Director for Episodes 8 and 17, and worked as key animator on Episodes 1, 5, 8, and 17. His early involvement demonstrated both versatility and a strong understanding of the series’ action-heavy tone.
Also Check: The Fine Art Screaming Inside JJK Season 3’s Opening Sequence
In Season 2, his role expanded dramatically as he took over as the series Director. Beyond supervising the overall production, Goshozono personally handled storyboards for Episodes 1, 5, 9, 18, and 23, as well as the second ending sequence (ED2). He also served as Episode Director for Episodes 1, 18, 23, and ED2, while contributing key animation to Episodes 1, 8, 14, 17, 18, 20, 21, 22, and 23. This level of direct involvement in multiple departments is uncommon for a series director and underscores how deeply embedded he was in crafting the show’s identity.
Season 2, particularly the Shibuya Incident arc, received widespread praise for its cinematic framing, fluid fight choreography, and emotionally intense sequences. Goshozono’s stylistic approach gave the anime a sharper visual edge and a more experimental rhythm, elevating the adaptation in the eyes of many fans.
For a detailed overview of his career, visit Shota Goshozono’s MyAnimeList profile.
Context Matters When Comparing Shota Goshozono and Ryu Nakayama
Some online conversations have attempted to link his rumored departure to backlash, drawing loose comparisons to the situation involving Ryu Nakayama, who directed Chainsaw Man Season 1 before leaving the studio. However, the note attached to the current rumor explicitly distances Goshozono’s case from any such scenario.
If the report proves accurate, his exit would represent the closing of a major chapter in Jujutsu Kaisen’s anime production. Still, it’s important to stress that no official statement has been released. Until confirmation arrives, the situation remains speculative. What is certain, however, is that Goshozono’s creative imprint on the series from Season 1 to the Culling Game arc has been substantial and lasting.
Also Read: Culling Game Arc Easter Eggs in JJK Season 3’s Opening Theme
A self-proclaimed pseudo-hikikomori and anime content glutton, Bhavya spends his time immersed in the shonen and isekai worlds of anime, always on the hunt for the next series to binge or dissect. Having worked as a cinematographer and graphic designer, he brings a creative eye and technical expertise to his passion for storytelling.
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