Animators typically do need to draw, especially in traditional animation or in roles that emphasize character design and storyboarding. Drawing skills are essential for creating animations from scratch, as it allows animators to conceptualize characters, scenes, and actions visually.
However, in 3D animation or using software like Maya or Blender, while traditional drawing skills are less critical, a strong understanding of 3D modeling and animation principles is still necessary. Knowledge of design, movement, and timing remains vital, even if the animator is not directly drawing every frame.
In summary, while drawing is crucial for many animation roles, the specific requirements can vary depending on the type of animation being produced.