Anime Expo 2026 is shaping up to be a major event for anime fans, with KADOKAWA confirming that the first episode of Re:ZERO -Starting Life in Another World Season 4 will premiere during its highly anticipated 10th anniversary panel. The announcement comes as part of the company’s full lineup reveal for the event, which will take place from July 2 to July 5 at the Los Angeles Convention Center.
The early screening will be held during the “KADOKAWA Anime 10th Anniversary Panel,” a centerpiece event celebrating a decade of some of the publisher’s most successful anime franchises. The panel is scheduled for July 3 from 5:00 PM to 6:50 PM at the JW Marriott Platinum Ballroom and is supported by Crunchyroll.
Re:ZERO Season 4 Premiere Takes Center Stage
The biggest draw from KADOKAWA’s announcement is undoubtedly the exclusive premiere of Re:ZERO Season 4 Episode 1, part of the “Recapture Arc.” This early screening gives fans their first official look at the next chapter in Subaru’s story months ahead of its wider release.
According to the official panel description, attendees will not only watch the episode but also hear behind-the-scenes insights and future plans for the franchise. This positions the panel as both a celebration of the series’ legacy and a launchpad for its future.
Joining the panel are key producers, including Sho Tanaka (Re:ZERO), Rie Ogura (KonoSuba: God’s Blessing on This Wonderful World!), and Chiaki Kurakane (Bungo Stray Dogs). Their presence signals that fans can expect not just a screening, but also meaningful updates and commentary on upcoming projects.
The Re:ZERO premiere is part of a broader initiative marking 10 years of KADOKAWA’s anime dominance. The anniversary panel brings together three flagship series—Re:ZERO, KONOSUBA, and Bungo Stray Dogs—highlighting their continued popularity and cultural impact.
As part of this celebration, KADOKAWA is also unveiling a special collaboration visual featuring characters from all three series alongside Crunchyroll mascots. This artwork will be displayed throughout the convention and distributed in limited forms, including exclusive uchiwa fans handed out during the panel.
The company’s official statement emphasizes the milestone nature of the event, inviting fans to “celebrate 10 years of KADOKAWA Anime” while teasing announcements that could define the next decade.
Booth Experiences and Exclusive Content for Fans
Beyond the headline panel, KADOKAWA is setting up a large-scale booth experience at Anime Expo 2026. Located at Booth #SH-2720, the exhibit will feature dedicated displays for its anniversary titles, including immersive photo walls where fans can interact with their favorite characters.
A notable addition is a special exhibit for Sentenced to Be a Hero, which recently confirmed its second season. The booth will also host live activities, including a cosplay appearance by Sou Aono as Aqua from KONOSUBA, alongside limited postcard giveaways.
Merchandise is another key focus, with early-release items and exclusive bonuses available. Fans who spend on anniversary-themed products from Re:ZERO, KONOSUBA, or Bungo Stray Dogs will receive limited-edition gifts tied to the celebration.
More Panels and Screenings Expand the Lineup
While Re:ZERO Season 4 leads the lineup, KADOKAWA’s Anime Expo presence extends across multiple panels and early screenings. Titles like Saga of Tanya the Evil Season 2, Sasaki and Peeps Season 2, and The World’s Finest Assassin Gets Reincarnated in Another World as an Aristocrat Season 2 will also receive early previews.
Additional highlights include creator talks, animation masterclasses, and industry panels aimed at both fans and aspiring creators, reinforcing KADOKAWA’s broader push into global engagement.
