Crunchyroll Teases 2025 Slate at Annecy, Talks Anime Growth
Crunchyroll, a renowned global anime brand and streaming service, has reached a milestone of over 17 million subscribers, solidifying its position as a major player in the entertainment industry. With the largest dedicated anime library on its platform, Crunchyroll is actively engaging with new audiences through a wide range of offerings including events, theatrical releases, games, merchandise, news, and more.
As Crunchyroll prepares for the upcoming Anime Expo in L.A. and Japan Expo in Paris, its presence at the prestigious Annecy festival is impossible to overlook. The company is showcasing its global hits and new strategies to industry professionals, students, and animation enthusiasts. Michel Berger, Crunchyroll’s EVP of global commerce and head of theatrical, emphasized the rapid growth of anime and how Crunchyroll has contributed to this phenomenon during a presentation at Annecy.
According to Berger, anime is no longer considered a niche genre but a powerful storytelling medium that resonates with fans worldwide. He projected that anime fandom will reach 1.5 billion by 2030, based on data gathered from a recent Crunchyroll study conducted by the National Research Group. The study highlighted anime’s increasing popularity among younger audiences, with a significant number of Gen Z individuals identifying as anime fans.
Social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube have played a crucial role in boosting anime discovery and engagement, with fans actively discussing and sharing their favorite anime content. Berger emphasized that anime is not just a form of entertainment but a deeply emotional experience for its audience.
Crunchyroll’s efforts to expand beyond traditional streaming services include ventures into gaming, music, collectibles, immersive events, and theatrical releases. Berger highlighted the success of “Demon Slayer: Mugen Train,” which set records at the global box office and signaled a growing demand for anime content in theaters.
In partnership with Sony Pictures International, Crunchyroll recently acquired international theatrical rights for the film “Jujutsu Kaisen: Hidden Inventory (Premature Death – The Movie),” offering fans a cinematic experience in select markets. The company is also gearing up for the release of “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Infinity Castle” in international markets through Sony Pictures Releasing.
Crunchyroll’s presence at Annecy includes two anime series, “Metallic Rouge” and “Anne Shirley,” competing in the TV Films category. The company’s commitment to expanding the anime experience beyond traditional boundaries is evident in its diverse range of offerings and strategic partnerships.
As Crunchyroll continues to evolve and innovate in the anime industry, fans can expect more exciting developments and immersive experiences in the future. The full NRG Crunchyroll study, showcasing the global state of anime, is available for further exploration. Stay tuned for more updates from Crunchyroll as they continue to shape the landscape of anime entertainment.
