The Crunchyroll Anime Awards 2026 are set to shine a spotlight on the best in anime, with its nominees just announced. This year, marking the 10th edition, the much-anticipated awards include an impressive lineup of anime titles vying for various prestigious categories. Among the nominees for 'Anime of the Year' are notable works such as 'Dandadan Season 2', 'Gachi Akuta', and the final season of 'My Hero Academia'. Each of these series has captivated audiences and left an indelible mark on the anime landscape.
In the film category, standout contenders like 'Chainsaw Man: The Movie – Reze Arc' and 'Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Mugen Castle Arc' are set to compete, showcasing the cinematic brilliance that anime has to offer. The voting for these awards opens today and fans are encouraged to cast their ballots on the official website, making their voices heard in recognizing the extraordinary talent behind these productions.
The awards ceremony will take place on May 23, with a pre-show airing at 5 PM followed by the main event at 6 PM (Tokyo time). The spectacular event promises to feature many special guests, including the likes of renowned actress Kasumi Arimura, famous cosplayer Enako, and popular comedian duo Mitorizu, all of whom will add star power and excitement to the occasion.
In addition to the influential Japanese guests, international stars such as singer-songwriter DANNA from Mexico, visual artist and producer Hannah Bahng from Australia, and e-sports host Nyvi Estephan from Brazil will also be in attendance, emphasizing the global appeal and reach of anime.
In recognition of music's pivotal role in anime, this year's awards will also showcase a range of musical tributes. DEAN FUJIOKA will kick off the ceremony with a performance of 'History Maker', the opening theme from the acclaimed anime 'Yuri!!! on ICE', whose inaugural edition won 'Anime of the Year' back in 2017. Additionally, renowned band PornoGraffitti will celebrate the 10th anniversary of 'My Hero Academia' with a special performance, along with collaborations featuring popular anime music artists.
The rich tapestry of this year's awards extends beyond just nominations. With a commitment to honoring creativity and passion in the anime industry, the Crunchyroll Anime Awards aim to provide a platform for creators and contributors who have made significant impacts on storytelling through animation. The eligibility criteria are clear: all works must have aired or been released both domestically in Japan and internationally within the set period.
Crunchyroll itself, the leading global anime brand, is dedicated to expanding the love for anime and pop culture through a premium streaming service that connects fans from all walks of life. With the largest collection of anime, immersive events, theatrical releases, and more, Crunchyroll ensures that viewers can enjoy anime anytime, anywhere, whether on smartphones, gaming consoles, or TVs.
As we prepare for the 2026 Crunchyroll Anime Awards, fans worldwide are invited to participate in this celebration of anime culture. Join us in recognizing the brilliance and artistry that continues to shape the anime fandom and look forward to an evening filled with honor, joy, and of course, spectacular anime entertainment.