The anticipated short anime adaptation of Sakura Kurihara's Let Me Fix You (Kimi o Tsumugu) yuri manga recently faced significant delays following serious allegations against Federico Antonio Russo (FAR), co-founder and co-producer of Buta Productions. These allegations, initially made by an X/Twitter user known as Maryco, have since been formally retracted, leading to new developments for the anime project and the involved parties.
Initial Accusations and Project Impact
Maryco, a 19-year-old user, initially posted a now-deleted message on X/Twitter accusing FAR of grooming her, starting when she was 14 and he was 23. Her post included a document detailing alleged interactions and chat transcripts. This information emerged shortly after German publisher Dokico announced its collaboration with Buta Productions for the Let Me Fix You anime, set to stream on YouTube in late May.
Following the accusations, the anime's official X/Twitter account swiftly posted a statement. The staff indicated they had just learned of the allegations and wished to distance themselves from FAR's alleged behavior. They clarified that no other individuals involved in the anime's production were aware of the situation. The post concluded by stating the staff would need time to discuss whether and how the project could continue without Buta Productions and FAR.
Creator Kurihara later confirmed the anime's slight delay, expressing gratitude that the team sought to continue production rather than cancel the project outright. The anime's official account reposted Kurihara's message without a new formal statement on its status.
Allegations Retracted
On Wednesday, Maryco made a new post on X/Twitter, formally retracting her accusations against FAR. She stated that she had involuntarily "ended up embellishing, warping details of my narration as well as adding totally incorrect information." In a follow-up reply, she apologized and expressed her hope that "everyone can move on from this commotion."
Studio's Future and Legal Stance
Buta Productions, responding to inquiries, stated that the Let Me Fix You anime is still in production with FAR involved as little as possible. The company added that it would "stop existing" following this incident, with FAR moving on. Buta Productions also indicated that their legal team was analyzing the situation "with the intention of suing the person who made these defamatory accusations," describing the accusations as "partial, misleading and malicious." The Buta Productions website currently displays "Website under construction."
Dokico confirmed that Buta Productions and FAR are no longer involved with the Let Me Fix You anime. Dokico will continue its involvement, taking responsibility for "the planning and communication between all involved parties." The company needs more time for updates but will announce when a decision on the project's continuation has been made.
Project Continuation and New Beginnings
A group identifying as Ponbleu, claiming to represent former staff members of Buta Productions, issued a statement. They announced their separation and reorganization without FAR's involvement, operating as an informal entity to fulfill prior client obligations. Ponbleu stated there are no current updates on announced projects.
Background and Prior Work
FAR was originally listed as the animation producer for the Let Me Fix You short anime. Blou, who co-founded Buta Productions with FAR, retired from producing animation in December 2025. Blou previously stated on Sunday they were "not really aware of the grooming situation as I received false info" and had reposted Maryco's initial accusation. Buta Productions previously contributed subcontractor work to various anime, including One Piece, Bocchi the Rock!, Wonder Egg Priority, and Uma Musume: Cinderella Gray.
Conclusion
The retraction of the initial allegations against FAR marks a pivotal moment for the Let Me Fix You anime and the entities involved. While the anime faces a delay, discussions are ongoing for its continuation without Buta Productions and FAR, with Dokico remaining committed to the project. The situation highlights the complexities and rapid developments within the animation industry in response to public accusations and their retractions.
