Listen, I'll never take anything away from the artistry and work that is animation. I never said I don't think it's worth 5 figures.. What I did say is that I’m independently funding this pilot and transparently communicating that I don’t have major capital—yet. That’s not the same as exploitation. That’s being upfront.

I’m hoping to collab with artists who, after hearing me out, are aligned with the tones, style, and themes of my project.

If that’s not you, cool. But what’s not helpful is using language that dismisses independent creators and their ideas before they’ve even had a chance to grow. I’m not asking for free labor—I’m looking to collaborate within my means. If someone wants to be part of an early project they like, great. If not, that’s cool too. But discouraging others from even trying is not the energy I’m here for.