Crunchyroll has announced that global music star The Weeknd will appear at the 10th annual Crunchyroll Anime Awards, where he will present the night’s top honor, Anime of the Year. The ceremony is scheduled to take place in Tokyo on May 23, marking a milestone edition of the event.
The Weeknd’s involvement reflects his long-standing connection to anime, which has influenced both his visual style and musical direction. He joins a growing lineup of celebrity presenters who highlight the medium’s expanding global impact.
Fan voting for this year’s awards is currently open and will run through April 15. Viewers can vote daily across 32 categories via official platforms, including Crunchyroll and MyAnimeList, helping determine the winners, including Anime of the Year.
The nominees for Anime of the Year 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.
In a statement, The Weeknd spoke about anime’s influence on his career, recalling early exposure to series like Sailor Moon and Dragon Ball.
He identified Samurai Champloo as a pivotal work that reshaped his understanding of storytelling by blending anime with hip-hop culture. He also credited artists such as Nujabes and directors including Shinichiro Watanabe, Satoshi Kon, Mamoru Oshii, and Katsuhiro Otomo for shaping his creative vision.
The Crunchyroll Anime Awards remain one of the most prominent global events recognizing achievements in anime, honoring creators, musicians, and performances that drive the industry forward. The ceremony will be livestreamed for audiences worldwide.
