Adapted by:
John Tones
WriterI've been writing about culture for twenty-something years and, at Xataka, I cover everything related to movies, video games, TV shows, comics, and pop culture.
Alba Mora
WriterAn established tech journalist, I entered the world of consumer tech by chance in 2018. In my writing and translating career, I've also covered a diverse range of topics, including entertainment, travel, science, and the economy.
Anime has been a significant part of our cultural landscape for years. It’s no surprise that when an anime feature film debuts in theaters, it quickly becomes the most-watched premiere of the weekend, even if it’s the second or third installment of a series primarily known among devoted fans.
Anime boasts one of the world’s most dedicated and consistent fan bases. As such, it’s understandable that streaming platforms, always eager to find the next big hit, have dramatically expanded their anime catalogs in recent years.
New mainstream. Decades have passed since the first anime series achieved success in the West, with titles such as Akira, Dragon Ball, and Ranma ½. The popularity of new hits, like One Piece and Attack on Titan, has far surpassed that of earlier productions that influenced millions of young people.
Generation Z is currently recognized as the anime generation, and its aesthetics and storytelling have become the mainstream norm. As a result, it’s a good time to examine several metrics that define a cultural landscape largely dominated by anime.
Crazy growth. Market research firm Parrot Analytics recently estimated that the average demand for streaming anime in the U.S. grew by 176% between 2019 and 2024. This surge is attributed to a greater supply of content, given that the number of anime programs tripled during that period. Another reason is an increase in casual viewers who are boosting Japanese animation’s popularity beyond dedicated fan circles. For the anime industry, this translates to annual revenues of $32 billion.
A focus on anime. A quick glance at streaming platforms reveals the significant role anime has come to play in their programming. Netflix is investing heavily in classics like Dragon Ball. It’s licensing the new series in the franchise, Daima, exclusively outside Asia. Meanwhile, One Piece’s live-action adaptation has emerged as a major success in recent months. Hulu is also competing by acquiring numerous licenses.
Specific services. Certain dedicated platforms cater exclusively to audiovisual subgenres with devoted fan bases, such as horror and anime. For example, Crunchyroll started as a fan project in 2006, distributing anime without permission. However, its rapid acceptance prompted it to sign legal distribution deals for anime. Acquired by Sony in 2021, Crunchyroll absorbed a major competitor, Funimation, and now boasts more than 120 million registered users.
Other notable streaming services dedicated to anime include RetroCrush and HiDive, alongside several free ad-supported streaming TV channels that broadcast series such as Pokémon, Case Closed, and Inazuma Eleven 24 hours a day.
Anime everywhere. Anime has established itself as a massive creative force in streaming today. Many series that once would have adopted a Western aesthetic now take inspiration from anime. For instance, Suicide Squad Isekai, produced in Japan, is based on DC heroes but reflects anime influences. Similarly, Arcane, a major animation hit from France, is undeniably rooted in anime aesthetics. Even an American series like Rick and Morty has spawned its own anime spin-off.
According to Toonami co-creator Jason DeMarco, these trends indicate the “maturity” of anime as a stylistic approach. Moreover, the financial implications are substantial. 38% of international anime revenue is generated through Netflix, showcasing a mutually beneficial relationship.
The new normal. The rapid growth and widespread integration of anime and Asian culture are now commonplace. A prime example is South Korean show Squid Game, which still holds the record as Netflix’s biggest hit. Additionally, the staggering popularity of the recent live-action adaptation of One Piece is one of many factors contributing to a larger narrative. This evolving landscape suggests a future where anime plays a central role in shaping global pop culture.
Image | Netflix
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