Otaku Sage
The Crunchyroll Anime Awards have become a cornerstone event in the anime community, celebrating outstanding achievements in anime from the previous year. As we approach the 10th edition, scheduled for May 23, 2026, in Tokyo, anticipation is building among fans and industry professionals alike.
Evolution of the Crunchyroll Anime Awards
Since their inception in 2017, the Crunchyroll Anime Awards have grown significantly in scope and prestige. Initially held in California, the awards moved to Tokyo in 2023, reflecting anime's global appeal and its deep roots in Japan. Over the years, the awards have expanded to include a diverse range of categories, recognizing excellence in various aspects of anime production.
Key Details of the 2026 Ceremony
The 10th Crunchyroll Anime Awards will take place on May 23, 2026, at the Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa in Tokyo. This marks the fourth consecutive year the event is hosted in Japan, underscoring the country's central role in the anime industry. The ceremony will be livestreamed globally, allowing fans worldwide to participate in the celebration.
Returning as hosts are voice actress Sally Amaki and entertainer Jon Kabira, who have become familiar faces to the awards' audience. Their dynamic hosting style has been well-received in previous editions, adding to the event's appeal.
Nominees for the 2026 Awards
The nominees for the 2026 Crunchyroll Anime Awards were announced on April 2, 2026, marking the beginning of the public voting period, which runs until April 15. This year's nominations showcase a diverse array of anime series and films that have captivated audiences over the past year.
Anime of the Year
- DAN DA DAN Season 2
- Gachiakuta
- My Hero Academia FINAL SEASON
- Takopi’s Original Sin
- The Apothecary Diaries (Season 2)
- The Summer Hikaru Died
Film of the Year
- 100 Meters
- Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc
- Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle
- Mononoke the Movie: Chapter II — The Ashes of Rage
- Scarlet
- The Rose of Versailles
Best Original Anime
- Apocalypse Hotel
- DIGIMON BEATBREAK
- Lazarus
- Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX
- Moonrise
- ZENSHU
Best Continuing Series
- DAN DA DAN Season 2
- Kaiju No. 8
- My Hero Academia FINAL SEASON
- ONE PIECE
- Solo Leveling Season 2 -Arise from the Shadow-
- SPY x FAMILY Season 3
Best New Series
- Clevatess
- Gachiakuta
- SAKAMOTO DAYS
- Takopi’s Original Sin
- The Fragrant Flower Blooms With Dignity
- The Summer Hikaru Died
Best Opening Sequence
- "HUGs" by Paledusk – Gachiakuta
- "Mirage" by Creepy Nuts – Call of the Night Season 2
- "On The Way" by AiNA THE END – DAN DA DAN Season 2
- "ReawakeR" (feat. Felix of Stray Kids) by LiSA – Solo Leveling Season 2 -Arise from the Shadow-
- "THE REVO" by PORNOGRAFFITTI – My Hero Academia FINAL SEASON
- "Watch Me!" by YOASOBI – WITCH WATCH
Best Ending Sequence
- "Actor" by Lilas Ikuta – SPY x FAMILY Season 3
- "Beautiful Colors" by OneRepublic – Kaiju No. 8
- "Doukashiteru" by WurtS – DAN DA DAN Season 2
- "I" by BUMP OF CHICKEN – My Hero Academia FINAL SEASON
- "Kawaii Kaiwai" by PiKi – My Dress-Up Darling Season 2
- "UN-APEX" by TK from Ling Tosite Sigure – Solo Leveling Season 2 -Arise from the Shadow-
These nominations reflect the dynamic and diverse nature of the anime industry, highlighting both new and continuing series that have resonated with audiences worldwide.
Special Performances and Tributes
Adding to the excitement of the 10th anniversary, Japanese singer Yoko Takahashi is set to perform a special tribute to the 30th anniversary of "Neon Genesis Evangelion." Fans can look forward to a rendition of the iconic opening theme, "A Cruel Angel's Thesis," celebrating the enduring legacy of this seminal anime series.
Fan Participation and Voting
Fan engagement is a crucial component of the Crunchyroll Anime Awards. The public voting period, which began on April 2 and runs until April 15, allows fans to have a direct impact on the outcome of the awards. This participatory approach ensures that the awards reflect the preferences and passions of the global anime community.
Looking Ahead
As the 10th Crunchyroll Anime Awards approach, the anticipation continues to build. This milestone event not only honors the best in anime over the past year but also celebrates a decade of growth and achievement in the anime industry. Fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting the ceremony to see which of their favorite series and films will take home the coveted awards.
For more information on the nominees and to participate in the voting process, visit the official Crunchyroll Anime Awards website.
Stay tuned for updates and coverage of the event as we count down to May 23, 2026, a day that promises to be a highlight for anime enthusiasts everywhere.