Crunchyroll has officially expanded its presenter lineup for the 2026 edition of the Crunchyroll Anime Awards, bringing together global music stars and anime fans for one of the industry’s biggest nights.
The announcement highlights the growing influence of anime across entertainment, with artists from K-pop, Latin music, and contemporary genres set to take the stage in Tokyo. Scheduled for May 23, 2026, the milestone tenth edition of the awards promises a blend of star power and celebration of anime’s biggest achievements.
Star-Studded Presenter Lineup Reflects Anime’s Global Reach
The newly announced presenters include BamBam, best known as a member of GOT7, alongside contemporary musician Ethan Bortnick, whose genre-blending work has gained massive streaming numbers. Joining them is TEN, a standout performer from NCT and WayV, as well as Young Miko, a GRAMMY-nominated artist with a rapidly growing global fanbase. Their inclusion signals Crunchyroll’s continued effort to connect anime with broader pop culture trends.
These names add to an already impressive lineup of celebrity anime fans confirmed for the event. Among them are Asuka Saito, RZA, Rashmika Mandanna, The Weeknd, and Winston Duke. This diverse mix of talent highlights how anime has evolved into a global cultural force, attracting admiration from artists across industries and regions.
Event Details, Hosts, and Global Streaming
The 2026 Crunchyroll Anime Awards will take place in Tokyo on May 23, with the ceremony hosted by entertainment personality Jon Kabira and voice actress Sally Amaki. The event will begin with the Orange Carpet pre-show at 5:00 PM JST, followed by the main ceremony at 6:00 PM JST. Fans worldwide will be able to tune in through Crunchyroll’s official Twitch, TikTok, and YouTube channels, as well as Sony Group’s global and Japanese YouTube platforms.
In a move that reinforces its global reach, the livestream will be available in nine languages, including English, Hindi, Spanish, French, and German. This accessibility ensures that anime fans from different regions can engage with the event in real time. As Crunchyroll continues to expand its international presence, the Anime Awards have become a key platform for celebrating the medium’s worldwide impact.
Celebrating a Decade of Anime Excellence
Now in its tenth year, the Crunchyroll Anime Awards has established itself as a leading event recognizing the creators, musicians, and performances that define anime each year. The ceremony not only honors popular series and standout talent but also reflects the industry’s evolution and its increasing crossover with mainstream entertainment. With support from Sony Music Solutions Inc. and Dempsey Productions, the event is expected to deliver a high-quality production that matches its global significance.
Crunchyroll’s role as a major anime platform continues to grow, offering fans access to one of the largest anime libraries alongside events, theatrical releases, and merchandise. The Anime Awards serve as a centerpiece of that ecosystem, bringing together fans and creators in a shared celebration. With its expanded presenter lineup and international streaming plans, the 2026 edition is shaping up to be one of the most inclusive and star-driven ceremonies yet.
As anticipation builds, the combination of global artists, established hosts, and a decade-long legacy positions this year’s Crunchyroll Anime Awards as a must-watch event for anime fans worldwide.
