WildBrain Clarifies Use Of AI In ‘The Super Mario Bros. Super Show!,’ And Other, Restorations (EXCLUSIVE)

Following backlash to AI-updated episodes of The Super Mario Bros. Super Show! currently airing on MeTV, distributor WildBrain has clarified its use of technology in the restorations.

Viewers recently noticed that the 1989 series had been visibly altered using AI-based upscaling, with many criticizing the results as overly smoothed and lacking the texture and low-budget, handmade charm of the original animation. In the press materials sent ahead of the broadcast, no mention of artificial intelligence was made.

In a statement provided to Cartoon Brew after our initial report, a WildBrain spokesperson clarified that the company uses “human-led, AI-assisted processes” to “increase resolution, improve color quality, and make other adjustments to upscale the overall presentation,” adding that it is “actively reviewing the episodes and working to correct issues where they occur.”

Read the full WildBrain statement below:

From time to time, as new technology emerges, we look to upgrade the viewing experience for the classic content in our library, especially series that are showing their age. This includes exploring ways to enhance our library through human‑led, AI‑assisted processes that increase resolution, improve colour quality, and make other adjustments to upscale the overall presentation. This process is not performed by WildBrain’s studio but overseen by professionals who manage the classic content in our library.

Much like aspects of traditional film restoration, this process is intended to help ensure our content can be distributed to audiences for years to come. Overall, we have seen very positive results. However, because some of the shows were made many decades ago, the original source material doesn’t always contain enough information for the AI tools to interpret properly. In some cases, this can result in visible distortions. We are actively reviewing the episodes and working to correct issues where they occur.

WildBrain remains committed to providing the best viewing experience, that respects the integrity of the original content, so today’s audiences can continue to enjoy these shows.