Potential AI Impact on Premium Episodic Animation Production
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October 29, 2025
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AI in animation production has the potential to deliver significant efficiencies. Some experts believe that studios could see up to 50 percent cost savings and timelines cut nearly in half over the next five years. The biggest early gains will likely come in pre-production tasks such as concept development and storyboarding and in post-production steps like sound syncing and color correction. Production efficiencies, including 2D tweening, will take longer to scale.
Today, a 22-minute animated episode costs about $600,000. With AI adoption, that figure could potentially be reduced by almost half by some estimates. Still, challenges remain. Studios must manage risks tied to quality control, copyright ownership and workforce concerns.
The most effective approach is to keep people at the center. Human-in-the- loop review, clear AI governance and reskilling programs will help manage risk while protecting creative standards. AI should be viewed as a tool that supports animators and strengthens output, not as a whole-stock replacement.
Our team works with studios and investors to design AI strategies, build risk management frameworks and capture cost and production efficiency gains while promoting sustainable growth.
Source: Expert Interviews, FTI Consulting Research & Analysis
Source: Expert Interviews, FTI Consulting Research & Analysis
Source: Expert Interviews, FTI Consulting Research & Analysis
Source: Expert Interviews, FTI Consulting Research & Analysis
Source: Expert Interviews, FTI Consulting Research & Analysis
Source: Expert Interviews, FTI Consulting Research & Analysis
Source: Expert Interviews, FTI Consulting Research & Analysis
Except as specifically noted above, the information set forth in these materials was derived from a series of interviews with industry experts conducted between March and April 2025 and from FTI analysis. Although we recognize the potential for AI to streamline production processes and generate cost savings, the nature and extent of these efficiencies remain speculative. Your experience may substantially differ. The information above is provided for discussion purposes only and should not be relied upon by any person for any purpose without independent verification. We expressly disclaim responsibility for any such reliance. The views expressed herein are those of the author(s) and not necessarily the views of FTI Consulting, Inc., its management, its subsidiaries, its affiliates, or its other professionals.
Published
October 29, 2025
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