Globally, anime’s Gen Z fan base is comparable in size and intensity to that of many major sports leagues, athletes, and movie stars. Within this generation, anime now sits shoulder to shoulder with the biggest icons in sports and popular music, with a fandom almost as large as that enjoyed by figures like LeBron James and Beyoncé.
Even among Millennials, anime fandom is larger than that of many major movie, music, and sports stars—highlighting the deep cultural resonance this genre has on both generations.
How Anime Became a Worldwide Cultural Force
NRG explores the emotional and social drivers behind anime's burgeoning global fandom
No longer a niche interest, anime is fast becoming a staple component in the media diets of consumers across the globe. It’s a versatile medium that resonates with audiences both old and new, holding deep personal meaning for fans.
One key driver behind this rise? Widespread availability on streaming platforms and the viral power of social media. Beyond streaming, platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube have become vital spaces where anime fandom thrives—where fans discover new series, share content, and build communities.
For many, anime isn’t just a form of entertainment; it’s a core part of their identity. Over a third of anime fans say anime plays a central role in their lives—offering surprise and delight in a way few other genres can.
So what makes anime so distinct—and so magnetic? And where does the genre go from here??
Anime has moved beyond the margins—and its fans are here to stay
Once the preserve of die-hard enthusiasts, anime is now a global entertainment force. While it hasn’t reached mainstream ubiquity in all markets, it’s already outpacing other global powerhouses like K-dramas and Bollywood in scale and engagement.
This marks a meaningful shift in how anime is perceived and consumed. What was once seen as niche media beyond its home market of Japan has become a staple of pop culture—especially among younger audiences.
That said, adoption looks different across markets. Countries like the US, Brazil, and France boast long-standing anime fandoms, while markets like the UK are still in earlier stages of growth. But one thing is clear: once someone becomes a fan, they tend to stay one.
Longevity is one of anime’s defining strengths. Just over half of Millennial fans—and 54% of Gen X fans—have been watching anime for over a decade, underscoring its long-term cultural resonance. Go to an anime convention these days, and you’ll see the halls filled with parents eager to pass down their passion to their kids—a quarter of Millennial and nearly a third of Gen X anime fans say they share their love for anime with their children. That kind of intergenerational fandom is helping anime evolve from a personal interest into a shared tradition.
Fans often describe anime as something that speaks directly to them regardless of generation—more than any other genre (out of 24). They show as much interest in rewatching classic titles as they do in discovering new ones, with anime on par with fantasy as a source of new and unique TV shows (only behind sci fi).3 It’s a rare blend of nostalgia and freshness that keeps people engaged over time.
The takeaway? Anime isn’t just growing—it’s becoming a permanent part of the cultural landscape. And once audiences find their way into the fandom, they tend to stick around for the long haul.
Fans often describe anime as something that speaks directly to them and their generation—the #1 genre out of 24—and they show as much interest in rewatching classic titles as they do in discovering new ones, with anime serving as the #2 genre that is capable of offering new and unique TV shows. It’s a rare blend of nostalgia and discovery that keeps people engaged over time.
The takeaway? Anime isn’t just growing—it’s becoming a permanent part of the cultural landscape. And once audiences find their way into the fandom, they tend to stick around for the long haul.
A defining cultural touchstone for Gen Z
I talk to friends, colleagues, or family about anime in person
I have conversations about anime with people I know on social media (e.g., friends, mutuals, etc.)
I watch anime with other people in person
I introduce anime to people who haven't seen any before
I have conversations about anime with people I don't know on social media (influencers, etc.)
I make and/or share anime memes or videos with other people online
I watch anime with other people online
I put together anime watchlists or recommendations for other people
I make and/or share anime-inspired music playlists for other people online
I meet up with other anime fans at conventions or fan events
To find out, Crunchyroll, the global anime brand, commissioned National Research Group (NRG), a leading global insights agency, to conduct a study exploring the values, identity markers, and fandom behaviors that set anime apart.
Unless otherwise specified, data in this article comes from research that surveyed 29,000 general entertainment consumers ages 13–54, including 3,500 anime fans—viewers who “like” or “love” anime and watch anime content at least once per month—across seven key markets, including the US, UK, India, Germany, France, Brazil, and Mexico.
The results were striking. Among Gen Z, anime fandom now rivals that of major music stars and sports franchises, providing fans with a powerful sense of community and cultural connection. The message is clear: anime is no longer on the sidelines of pop culture. It’s leading the charge.
Let’s dig into what makes anime’s rise so remarkable—ikuzo!
Anime Fanship versus Sports Fanship
68%
71%
73%
The Olympics
48%
58%
64%
FIFA (International soccer federation)
48%
57%
60%
UEFA Champions League (European soccer league)
38%
51%
56%
NBA (National Basketball Association)
24%
42%
54%
Japanese Anime
42%
48%
52%
Formula One
23%
40%
49%
WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment)
36%
47%
49%
Premier League (English soccer league)
35%
46%
48%
NFL (National Football League)
27%
44%
47%
UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship)
18%
34%
43%
E-Sports
31%
39%
40%
Bundesliga (German soccer league)
23%
37%
39%
La Liga (Spanish soccer league)
41%
42%
39%
Tennis (Wimbledon, French Open, etc.)
23%
33%
38%
Ligue 1 (French soccer league)
21%
30%
33%
Campeonato Brasileiro Série A (Brazilian soccer league)
13%
24%
33%
Indian Premier League (Cricket)
32%
23%
33%
Serie A (Italian soccer league)
32%
23%
33%
MLB (Major League Baseball)
28%
18%
32%
Major League Soccer (American soccer league)
23%
14%
27%
Liga MX (Mexican soccer league)
18%
9%
22%
Competitive Eating (including Mukbangs)
Among total global consumers who "love" or "like" these sports/leagues
gen z
millennials
gen x
Indeed, much of anime’s cultural momentum comes from how new fans discover and share it. While more than half of fans say that streaming platforms play an important role in helping them discover anime—and nearly as many credit friends and family—40% discover new anime series, at least in part, by fan edits on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
For example, social media played a pivotal role in the rise of Jujutsu Kaisen, which debuted in 2020 and quickly became a global hit. Nearly four in ten American viewers said they saw content about the series on Instagram or other social platforms prior to watching it, while over a quarter viewed clips or fan reactions on TikTok.
DISCOVER ANIME THROUGH FAN EDITS ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Among global anime fans
IMAGERY
We’ve only scratched the surface. Part 2 is coming soon on May 22nd, with more insights on the fandoms, formats, and frontiers defining anime’s next chapter.
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Drawn Together
IMAGERY
SCROLL TO SEE MORE
GEN Z
47%
MILLENNIALS
33%
GEN X
24%
GENRE FANDOM BY GENERATION
Japanese anime
K-DRAMAS
BOLLYWOOD
54%
42%
24%
43%
34%
20%
39%
32%
20%
gen z2
millennials
gen x
GLOBAL consumers who "like" OR "love" these ENTERTAINMENT GENRES1
Anime Fanship versus Celebrity Fanship
global consumers who "love" or "like" these CELEBRITIES
Noah Lyles striking a Goku pose
Photo: Instagram @nojo18
gen z
millennials
gen x
Keanu Reeves
Billie Eilish
Keanu Reeves
Lady Gaga
Taylor Swift
LeBron James
Beyoncé
Japanese Anime
Serena Williams
Pedro Pascal
Addison Rae
BTS
BLACKPINK
Bad Bunny
The Kardashians
Megan Thee Stallion
Kai Cenat
Shohei Ohtani
Lionel Messi
Lady Gaga
Beyoncé
Taylor Swift
Lionel Messi
Serena Williams
Billie Eilish
LeBron James
Pedro Pascal
Japanese Anime
Kendrick Lamar
Addison Rae
Megan Thee Stallion
BTS
The Kardashians
BLACKPINK
Bad Bunny
Shoehei Ohtani
Kai Cenat
Keanu Reeves
Lady Gaga
Beyoncé
Serena Williams
Taylor Swift
Lionel Messi
LeBron James
Billie Eilish
Pedro Pascal
Kendrick Lamar
Japanese Anime
Addison Rae
Megan Thee Stallion
The Kardashians
BTS
Bad Bunny
BLACKPINK
Kai Cenat
67%
65%
64%
62%
60%
59%
56%
54%
47%
gen z
millennials
gen x
46%
39%
39%
39%
37%
36%
35%
34%
25%
76%
68%
60%
59%
59%
55%
52%
52%
45%
42%
39%
31%
31%
29%
29%
27%
22%
20%
26%
CLICK TO SEE EACH GENERATION
79%
64%
54%
53%
52%
49%
39%
38%
33%
25%
24%
21%
20%
19%
16%
15%
14%
9%
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
Musician
Influencer
Athlete
Actor
CLICK TO SEE EACH GENERATION
1. Based on a survey of approximately 29,000 consumers who consume at least 1 hour per week of TV content, across the US, UK, India, Germany, France, Brazil, and Mexico, fielded March 2025
2. Age ranges for generations: Gen Z (13-28), Millennials (29-44), and Gen X (45-54)
3. Data from NRG’s syndicated study, Future of Series (September 2024)
#E7E4E1
gen z
millennials
gen x
Anime Fanship versus Sports Fanship
global consumers who "love" or "like" these sports/leagues
The Olympics
FIFA (International soccer federation)
UEFA Champions League (European soccer league)
NBA (National Basketball Association)
Japanese Anime
WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment)
Premier League (English soccer league)
NFL (National Football League)
UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship)
E-Sports
Bundesliga (German soccer league)
La Liga (Spanish soccer league)
Tennis (Wimbledon, French Open, etc.)
Ligue 1 (French soccer league)
Campeonato Brasileiro Série A (Brazilian soccer league)
Indian Premier League (Cricket)
Serie A (Italian soccer league)
MLB (Major League Baseball)
Major League Soccer (American soccer league)
Liga MX (Mexican soccer league)
Competitive Eating (including Mukbangs)
73%
64%
60%
56%
54%
52%
49%
49%
48%
47%
43%
40%
39%
39%
38%
33%
33%
33%
33%
32%
27%
22%
The Olympics
FIFA (International soccer federation)
UEFA Champions League (European soccer league)
NBA (National Basketball Association)
Premier League (English soccer league)
NFL (National Football League)
UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship)
Japanese Anime
Tennis (Wimbledon, French Open, etc.)
WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment)
Bundesliga (German soccer league)
La Liga (Spanish soccer league)
E-Sports
Ligue 1 (French soccer league)
Serie A (Italian soccer league)
MLB (Major League Baseball)
Campeonato Brasileiro Série A (Brazilian soccer league)
Major League Soccer (American soccer league)
Indian Premier League (Cricket)
Liga MX (Mexican soccer league)
Competitive Eating (including Mukbangs)
71%
58%
57%
51%
48%
47%
46%
44%
42%
42%
40%
39%
37%
34%
33%
32%
32%
30%
28%
24%
23%
18%
The Olympics
UEFA Champions League (European soccer league)
FIFA (International soccer federation)
Tennis (Wimbledon, French Open, etc.)
NBA (National Basketball Association)
Premier League (English soccer league)
NFL (National Football League)
Bundesliga (German soccer league)
La Liga (Spanish soccer league)
UFC (Ultimate Fighting Championship)
MLB (Major League Baseball)
Japanese Anime
WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment)
Ligue 1 (French soccer league)
Serie A (Italian soccer league)
Campeonato Brasileiro Série A (Brazilian soccer league)
E-Sports
Major League Soccer (American soccer league)
Liga MX (Mexican soccer league)
Indian Premier League (Cricket)
Competitive Eating (including Mukbangs)
68%
48%
48%
42%
41%
38%
36%
35%
31%
27%
27%
24%
24%
23%
23%
23%
21%
18%
18%
14%
13%
9%
gen z
millennials
gen x
CLICK TO SEE EACH GENERATION
This digital amplification has turned anime into a cultural accelerant, spreading rapidly online and embedding itself into the global public consciousness through iconic moments—like when Olympic champion Noah Lyles struck a Goku pose after his win at last summer’s games.
And he wasn’t the only Olympian to show off his fandom: shot putters Chase Jackson and Payton Otterdahl, as well as Italian race walker Massimo Stano, have all embraced the genre—striking victory poses inspired by beloved characters or wearing anime-themed gear.
These high-profile Millennial and Gen Z fans are hardly alone in their love for the genre; anime followership among Gen Z now surpasses every major sport or sports league except for the Olympics, FIFA, UEFA, and the NBA. While brands scramble to tap into traditional sports or entertainment partnerships, they may be overlooking one of the most passionate—and fastest-growing—fan bases in pop culture today.
Ultimately, public displays by celebrity fans, alongside the growing appetite for the genre among general audiences, raise a key question: can anime provide a unique shared language of emotion, strength, and meaning?
Japanese anime
54%
42%
24%
43%
34%
20%
K-DRAMAS
BOLLYWOOD
39%
32%
20%
Formula One (Motorsports)
Far from being a solitary hobby, anime is actively strengthening both online and offline relationships.
A striking 78% of anime fans say a shared love of the genre has helped them build or deepen friendships; for Gen Z, that figure is even higher. For many, anime has become more than a personal passion—it’s a social glue, even a lifeline.
That connection manifests most clearly in everyday conversation. Across all markets, the #1 way fans engage with anime is by talking about it with friends—and more often in person than online. In fact, 58% of fans say they’ve discussed anime face-to-face with friends, family, or coworkers, compared to 43% who’ve talked about it on social media. For teens, anime often sparks friendships at school; for Millennials and Gen X, it serves as common ground at work.
Fandom also plays out in shared viewing. Forty-two percent of fans say they watch anime with others in person, reinforcing that anime culture isn’t just about personal identification—it’s a collective experience.
Online, the community is just as vibrant. From anime music videos (AMVs) to fan art, cosplay to commentary threads, anime fandom thrives on social platforms—and two-in-five anime fans say they’ve made friends online through anime. More than a distribution channel, these spaces are canvases for self-expression and breeding grounds for lasting connection.
In short: anime’s influence extends far beyond the screen. It’s changing how people relate to one another—building friendships, communities, and cultural bridges along the way.
Anime is helping people connect— online and in real life
TOP TEN WAYS ANIME FANS SHARE THEIR PASSION
Among global anime fans
I talk to friends, colleagues, or family about anime in person
58%
I have conversations about anime with people I know on social media (friends, mutuals, etc.)
43%
I watch anime with other people in person
42%
I introduce anime to people who haven't seen any before
36%
I have conversations about anime with people I don't know on social media (influencers, etc.)
25%
I make and/or share anime memes or videos with other people online
24%
I watch anime with other people online
23%
I put together anime watchlists or recommendations for other people
21%
I make and/or share anime-inspired music playlists for other people online
14%
I meet up with other anime fans at conventions or fan events
14%
For many of today’s young people, anime is becoming a key part of how they define themselves. Eighty-eight percent of teen fans consider anime an important part of their identity, while 93% say that they're proud to be an anime fan. In other words, if you’re an anime fan and I’m an anime fan, there’s an unspoken bond—we likely see the world through a similar lens.
At the heart of this connection is anime’s unique capacity for emotionally rich storytelling. The medium consistently explores themes like friendship, resilience, vulnerability, and perseverance in the face of adversity—offering a narrative framework that strikes a chord with young people navigating their own questions of identity, purpose, and belonging. For almost a third of teen anime fans, anime has directly shaped their personal outlook on life.
And the emotional connection doesn’t stop there. Nearly half of fans admit to having had a crush on an anime character—a fact which speaks to the genre’s ability to build fully realized emotional worlds and characters who feel deeply relatable and understandable.
Anime is a powerful marker of youth identity
48% of anime fans admit to having had a crush on an anime character
Anime fans in cosplay at Anime Expo in Los Angeles, California
25%
34%
34%
40%
40%
38%
26%
27%
37%
I like them both / have no preference
I prefer subtitled anime (subs)
I prefer dubbed anime (dubs)
One of anime’s defining qualities is its authenticity. While Western animation often leans on irony, satire, or self-aware humor to connect with audiences, anime tends to offer something different: emotional stories that are direct, intense and deeply felt.
Compared to Western animation, viewers are drawn to anime for its intricate artistry, explosive action sequences, and gripping character arcs—but also by the seriousness with which it treats its own world-building and the plight of its characters.4 Indeed, the genre’s commitment to emotional truth—without flinching or cynicism—is one of the features that sets it apart from other genres in a cultural era where earnestness often feels like a scarce resource.
Younger audiences, especially Gen Z and Millennials, are drawn to that emotional authenticity. It’s no coincidence that many prefer subtitles over dubbed versions. It’s a subtle but telling choice: they want to experience every nuance as it was originally intended, without dilution or reinterpretation. For these fans, anime feels real, even when the stories themselves are fantastical.
But anime’s sincerity isn’t just a stylistic preference—it may have the power to shape how young people understand and process their emotions. Through characters who struggle, grow, and wrestle with external and internal conflict, anime offers more than escapism. It provides a framework for emotional literacy, helping fans make sense of their inner lives and navigate challenges and ambiguity in an increasingly uncertain world.
In the end, anime’s true power lies in its ability to tell stories that are extraordinary and deeply human—and in doing so, help a generation better understand themselves.
This sense of authenticity also extends to how fans engage with the broader anime ecosystem. Not all platforms are seen as equal; fans distinguish between content hosts and cultural stewards. Crunchyroll has become a home for those who want to immerse themselves in anime in a way that feels authentic and aligned with their values—with over half of respondents aware of Crunchyroll (54%) strongly agreeing that it's an essential part of the anime ecosystem, well ahead of other major streaming services. Crunchyroll isn’t just viewed as a distributor, but as a trusted pillar of the anime community—one that supports creators and helps to preserve the genre’s integrity.
What sets the medium apart?
PREFERENCE FOR SUBBED OR DUBBED ANIME
Among global anime fans
WHAT ANIME DOES BETTER THAN WESTERN ANIMATION
ACCORDING TO US VIEWERS WHO ARE FANS OF BOTH TYPES OF CONTENT5
TOP DRIVERS FOR WATCHING ANIME
gen z
millennials
gen x
AMONG GLOBAL ANIME FANS
high-quality animation
compelling characters and relationships
imaginative and creative storytelling
sense of fun and adventure
unique art styles
intense, exciting action sequences
exciting, unpredictable storylines
sense of humor
musical scores/soundtracks
complex messages and themes
different sub-genres of anime (e.g., isekai, slice-of-life, etc.)
I LIKE THE...
37%
35%
34%
32%
31%
30%
30%
29%
22%
21%
21%
imaginative and creative storytelling
high-quality animation
compelling characters and relationships
sense of fun and adventure
unique art styles
intense, exciting action sequences
exciting, unpredictable storylines
sense of humor
musical scores/soundtracks
complex messages and themes
different sub-genres of anime (e.g., isekai, slice-of-life, etc.)
I LIKE THE...
42%
38%
35%
32%
32%
32%
32%
31%
24%
19%
18%
imaginative and creative storytelling
high-quality animation
compelling characters and relationships
sense of fun and adventure
unique art styles
intense, exciting action sequences
exciting, unpredictable storylines
sense of humor
musical scores/soundtracks
different sub-genres of anime (e.g., isekai, slice-of-life, etc.)
complex messages and themes
I LIKE THE...
42%
38%
33%
33%
32%
32%
31%
31%
24%
20%
17%
gen z
millennials
gen x
Explore themes of heroism and sacrifice
+ 7%
Develop complex and intricate plots
+ 8%
+ 8%
Offer deeper character arcs
Use symbolism and metaphors effectively
+ 8%
Have impressive action sequences
+14%
Showcase unique artistry
+20%
Q: HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN AN ANIME FAN?
Among global anime fans
While anime continues to thrive among younger audiences, its emotional impact reaches well beyond Gen Z. For older generations—particularly Gen X—anime offers something increasingly rare: a moment of pause, wonder, and emotional clarity in a world that often feels relentlessly uncertain.
As one of the oldest cohorts of anime fans, Gen X carries a deep and meaningful cultural memory of the genre; over half have been watching anime for over a decade. For them, anime is both a nostalgic touchstone and a present-day refuge. They’ve watched the world shift—geopolitically, economically, environmentally—and anime remains one of the few consistent forms of entertainment that acknowledges those hardships while still offering a sense of hope.
Hopeful storytelling in an uncertain world—especially for Gen X
2%
3%
2%
4%
14%
18%
9%
9%
32%
42%
19%
17%
19%
20%
19%
16%
32%
17%
51%
54%
TOTAL
gen z
millennials
gen x
Less than a year
1–2 years
3–5 years
6–10 years
10+ years
This shift isn’t just about convenience—it reflects a change in values. As anime has gone global, fans have become more aware of the people and industry behind the content. Nearly 80% of fans agree that piracy harms anime creators and casts, and the same number believe it’s ethically wrong. What was once seen as a necessary workaround now feels out of step with a community that increasingly prioritizes support and sustainability.
That’s not to say piracy has disappeared. Some Gen Z fans—particularly in regions where access remains limited—still rely on unofficial sources or social media edits. But for the broader fan base, supporting the industry has become part of what it means to be a fan. Contributing to the future of anime is more than a mere transactional act—it’s a shared commitment to the community, to the stories and the creators they love.
From fan subs to subscriptions— anime's path to broader access
PERCENTAGE OF TIME SPENT WATCHING ANIME ON…
AMONG GLOBAL ANIME FANS
25%
34%
34%
76%
80%
85%
24%
20%
15%
Official, licensed streaming services
Unofficial, unlicensed streaming services (pirating)
gen z
millennials
gen x
As anime’s popularity continues to grow across continents and generations, its audience is evolving just as rapidly. While legacy titles and nostalgia still resonate—especially with older fans—younger viewers, particularly women and Gen Z, are calling for broader, more inclusive storytelling. Today, girls make up 44% of teen anime fans, signaling that the genre has firmly outgrown its outdated “boys-only” reputation.
These shifts mirror broader cultural movements. Modern fans are seeking diverse protagonists, deeper representation, and fresh narrative perspectives. Nearly 6-in-10 US anime fans want to see more racial diversity in anime, and many are also asking for greater inclusion of LGBTQ+ characters, people with disabilities, and Indigenous cultures.
But it’s not just about who is represented—it’s about how. Audiences are voicing a clear desire for more strong female leads (44%) and more adult protagonists (38%), as well as some increased visibility for LGBTQ+ characters (16%). These demands are especially pronounced among younger and female fans, who are actively shaping the future of the genre—not just as consumers, but as critics, creators, and community builders.
Anime’s ascent from cult favorite to global cultural force is no accident—it’s the result of passionate fandom, increased accessibility, and stories that resonate across geography and generations.
Once seen as a fringe format, anime now rivals the influence of top-tier music icons and sports leagues, while fostering emotional connection, social belonging, and cultural curiosity in every corner of the world. As fans demand more diverse, inclusive, and emotionally rich narratives, anime is evolving to meet the demands of a new, global fan base.
This is more than a medium. It’s a movement. And it’s only just getting started.
Catering to an evolving global fandom
59% of US anime fans want to see more racially diverse protagonists6
About NRG National Research Group is a leading global insights and strategy firm at the intersection of entertainment and technology. Rooted in four decades of industry expertise, the world's leading marketers turn to us for insights into growth and strategy for any content, anywhere, on any device. Working at the confluence of content, culture and technology, NRG offers insights for bold storytellers everywhere.
Words and analysis Melissa Blong, Francesca de la Fuente, Jasmina Saleh, Fergus Navaratnam-Blair
Design and creative Victoria Lutz, Liv Horn, Emily Murphy, Grace Stees
BACK TO TOP
4. Data from NRG’s Anime, Ascendant report, September 2024
5. Data from NRG’s Anime, Ascendant report, September 2024
6. Data from NRG’s Anime, Ascendant report, September 2024
CLICK TO SEE EACH GENERATION
While anime continues to thrive among younger audiences, its emotional impact reaches well beyond Gen Z. For older generations—particularly Gen X—anime offers something increasingly rare: a moment of pause, wonder, and emotional clarity in a world that often feels relentlessly uncertain.
As one of the oldest cohorts of anime fans, Gen X carries a deep and meaningful cultural memory of the genre; over half have been watching anime for over a decade. For them, anime is both a nostalgic touchstone and a present-day refuge. They’ve watched the world shift—geopolitically, economically, environmentally—and anime remains one of the few consistent forms of entertainment that acknowledges those hardships while still offering a sense of hope.
Where younger fans often turn to anime for identity-building and joy, Gen X fans are more likely to seek out emotional recalibration. For them, anime provides escapism—not as avoidance, but as a way to reset and restore. Across markets, fans agree: anime has the power to turn a bad day around. In fact, in many regions, it's ranked among the top emotional coping tools—second only to a few universal comforts.
That sense of comfort is tied to the genre’s ability to transport viewers to other dimensions. Whether through quiet slice-of-life dramas or high-stakes fantasy epics, the best anime series deliver on two levels: they’re fantastical enough to escape into, and sincere enough to feel real.
The depth of that connection is also reflected in fan behavior. Seventy-one percent say they turn to anime for emotional comfort, and many take that engagement even further—60% of fans read original manga sources to stay connected with the characters and stories they love.
Where younger fans often turn to anime for identity-building and joy, Gen X fans are more likely to seek out emotional recalibration. For them, anime provides escapism—not as avoidance, but as a way to reset and restore. Across markets, fans agree: anime has the power to turn a bad day around. In fact, in many regions, it's ranked among the top emotional coping tools—second only to a few universal comforts.
That sense of comfort is tied to the genre’s ability to transport viewers to other dimensions. Whether through quiet slice-of-life dramas or high-stakes fantasy epics, the best anime series deliver on two levels: they’re fantastical enough to escape into, and sincere enough to feel real.
The depth of that connection is also reflected in fan behavior. Seventy-one percent say they turn to anime for emotional comfort, and many take that engagement even further—60% of fans read original manga sources to stay connected with the characters and stories they love.
Formula One (Motorsports)
Formula One (Motorsports)
Hello!
こんにちは！
In-person
ONLINE
either/or
For much of anime’s global history, fans had to work hard just to watch it. Before streaming, access was often limited, expensive, or geographically restricted. In some markets, linear TV played a crucial role in introducing anime to wider audiences—but elsewhere, fans relied on unofficial means. For many, piracy wasn’t always rebellion but necessity; fan-subbed uploads and bootlegged VHS tapes were the only way to discover stories that some mainstream distributors overlooked or misunderstood.
But over the past two decades, the story has shifted dramatically.
Today, most fans prefer official, licensed platforms that provide fast, high-quality access to a wide range of titles. An overwhelming 78% of anime viewing now happens on legal services, and 66% of fans say they strongly prefer the experience of watching on licensed platforms. Only 13% still favor unlicensed options.
For much of anime’s global history, fans had to work hard just to watch it. Before streaming, access was often limited, expensive, or geographically restricted. In some markets, linear TV played a crucial role in introducing anime to wider audiences—but elsewhere, fans relied on unofficial means. For many, piracy wasn’t always rebellion but necessity; fan-subbed uploads and bootlegged VHS tapes were the only way to discover stories that some mainstream distributors overlooked or misunderstood.
But over the past two decades, the story has shifted dramatically.
Today, most fans prefer official, licensed platforms that provide fast, high-quality access to a wide range of titles. An overwhelming 78% of anime viewing now happens on legal services, and 66% of fans say they strongly prefer the experience of watching on licensed platforms. Only 13% still favor unlicensed options.