Anime of the Year Nominees Include DAN DA DAN Season 2, Gachiakuta, My Hero Academia FINAL SEASON, Takopi’s Original Sin, The Apothecary Diaries (Season 2), and The Summer Hikaru Died
Hosts
Sally Amaki
Voice actress and co-host of the 2026 Crunchyroll Anime Awards live ceremony.
Lauren Moore
Co-host of the 2026 Crunchyroll Anime Awards live ceremony.
Jon Kabira
Popular entertainer and co-host of the 2026 Crunchyroll Anime Awards live ceremony.
Presenters include:
Asuka Saito
In 2011, she joined Nogizaka46 as its youngest first-generation member. After graduating in 2023, she has flourished as an actress and model. Her standout role in 【Oshi no Ko】－The Final Act (2024) earned her the Newcomer of the Year at the 48th Japan Academy Film Prize. In 2026, she made her voice acting debut in the animated film The Keeper of the Camphor Tree.
Danna
Mexican singer, songwriter, and actress known for her powerful voice and cinematic presence. She gained global fame through Netflix’s Élite and voiced Elphaba in the Latin American dub of Wicked. A multi-award-winning artist, Danna continues to influence music, fashion, and television across Latin America and beyond.
Enako
One of Japan’s most renowned cosplayers, celebrated for her breathtaking character recreations from anime, games, and manga. She has expanded into acting, television, and commercials. Appointed as a Cool Japan Ambassador by the Japanese government, Enako promotes Japanese pop culture worldwide and has millions of followers globally.
Hannah Bahng
Australian singer-songwriter, producer, and visual artist known for her introspective songwriting and immersive alt-pop sound. Her project The Misunderstood EP was featured in Rolling Stone’s Best 100 Albums of 2025. She handles every aspect of her art — from music production to visuals — establishing herself as a bold independent voice in music.
Kasumi Arimura
Award-winning Japanese actress who debuted in 2010. She rose to fame with Amachan (2013) and earned multiple Japan Academy Film Prizes, including Best Actress for We Made a Beautiful Bouquet. In 2024, her Netflix series The Last Goodbye reached 190 countries. In 2026, she stars in the drama GIFT and the film Magical Secret Tour.
Mitorizu
Popular Japanese comedy duo formed in 2007 by Moriyama Shintaro and Lilly. They reached the M-1 Grand Prix finals for three consecutive years starting in 2018. Known for their sharp wit, they host multiple TV shows including Mitorizu no Madorizu Mystery and Mitorizu Jan, and have a popular radio program on TBS Radio.
Nanase Nishino
Former Nogizaka46 first-generation member and the group’s ace (center seven times). After graduating in 2018, she has built a successful acting career. She won awards at the Japan Academy Film Prize for Last of the Wolves: Level 2 and received recognition at the Yokohama Film Festival. Her series Regards to Kenshiro was nominated for an International Emmy.
Nyvi Estephan
Brazil’s leading esports and gaming host since 2013. She has presented major championships across Brazil, Latin America, and international events, covering over 30 game titles. A pioneer in the field, Nyvi also owns a football team in the Kings League and has worked with major networks like Rede Globo and SporTV.
Rashmika Mandanna
Known as “India’s Sweetheart,” Rashmika is one of India’s biggest pan-Indian stars. Her films have grossed over USD 400 million worldwide. A Forbes India 30 Under 30 honoree, she is admired for her cultural impact, acting versatility across languages, and growing influence as a youth icon and entrepreneur.
RZA
Founding member and producer of Wu-Tang Clan, visionary filmmaker, and bridge between hip-hop and anime. He shaped the cult anime Afro Samurai through its music and creative direction. His martial arts film The Man with the Iron Fists reflects his deep appreciation for anime aesthetics and East-meets-West storytelling.
Snitchery
Creative force in cosplay, nerd culture, beauty, and fashion. She crafts viral pop culture moments through bold storytelling and distinctive aesthetics. Collaborating with major studios and brands, Snitchery brings films, TV, and digital content to life with her visionary and unfiltered style.
Winston Duke
Trinidad and Tobago-born actor best known as M’Baku in Marvel’s Black Panther franchise. He will appear next in Avengers: Doomsday and the animated film Slime. A producer and philanthropist, he founded Papa Bois Productions and advocates for global health and conservation.
Special Performers
Dean Fujioka
Japanese singer who will open the ceremony with “History Maker” from Yuri!!! on ICE — the very first Crunchyroll Anime Awards’ Anime of the Year recipient.
Asian Kung-Fu Generation
Legendary rock band that will perform their beloved hit Haruka Kanata — the second opening theme for the seminal shounen series NARUTO.
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Yoko Takahashi
Singer who will perform a Neon Genesis Evangelion 30th anniversary tribute.
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Tim Lyu
Pre-show host of the 2026 Crunchyroll Anime Awards.
2026 Crunchyroll Anime Awards Nominees
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