Is Avatar: The Last Airbender (ATLA) an anime?

I think one of the most contentious debates in the anime community — perhaps even more so than the eternal conflict over sub vs. dub — is ‘what makes an anime, an anime?’

To some, a show must be made in Japan for it to be considered anime, while others will say it’s anime so long as it’s inspired by anime, or it employs a particular animation style or art design.

In early-2005, a western cartoon began airing that would turn this debate on its head, to the point where nearly 20 years later, we’re still asking if Avatar: The Last Airbender should be considered anime. It’s hardly the first or only western animation that could be considered anime under certain definitions, but it’s definitely one of the most notorious examples. Let’s take a look at the situation and find out once and for all if Avatar: The Last Airbender could technically be considered anime, or if it’s just a cartoon.

Is Avatar: The Last Airbender an Anime?

It really depends on who you’re asking, and what camp they belong to. There is no concrete definition for anime, and as such, no objective authority on what shows are considered anime and which shows aren’t.

Besides, if you are adamant that a show can only be considered anime if it’s made in Japan, then you’d have to admit certain shows you’d otherwise consider anime wouldn’t be in actuality. Avatar: The Last Airbender was animated in-part by South Korean studios JM Animation, DR MOVIE, and Moi Animation, all of whom have worked on anime such as Fairy Tail, Pokemon, Akebi’s Sailor Uniform, Black Lagoon, or Aldnoah.Zero. It should be said, then, that none of these named anime were primarily produced by the studios behind animation for Avatar: The Last Airbender. But, they were still involved in both.

If you prefer to look at Avatar as an anime, then you are free to do so. But, if you prefer to look at the topic differently, that’s also your prerogative. You’re allowed to see it however you want.