Published 27 February 2025

6 min read

US Gen Z are falling for anime: 42% now watch it at least weekly (Polygon, 2024), attracted to its swoony emotionality, adventurous spirit and parable-like narratives. For the first of Stylus’ Fandoms to Watch reports, – which chart new or swelling fandoms – we guide you through the must-know sub-cohorts, the key recent TV titles, and their online and IRL havens.

New-Gen Anime Adorers Fan Cohorts: A Guide

Must-Know TV Show Titles: Mainstays & The New Wave

Fandom Havens: Online Hubs & IRL Events

With 65% of US Gen Z anime fans now choosing anime as their go-to entertainment – far more than the numbers opting for other categories (see Key Stats) – a new wave of fan subsets offers a window into their preferences and, therefore, key brand access points. From the ultra-committed Otaku Disciples (and their insider terminology) to the casual New-Gen Anime Explorers, the romance-obsessed Shippers, and Cosplayer-Influencers’ costumed self-expression, we outline four key groups.

With 65% of US Gen Z anime fans now choosing anime as their go-to entertainment – far more than the numbers opting for other categories (see Key Stats) – a new wave of fan subsets offers a window into their preferences and, therefore, key brand access points. From the ultra-committed Otaku Disciples (and their insider terminology) to the casual New-Gen Anime Explorers, the romance-obsessed Shippers, and Cosplayer-Influencers’ costumed self-expression, we outline four key groups.

Summary

New-Gen Anime Adorers Fan Cohorts: A Guide

With 65% of US Gen Z anime fans now choosing anime as their go-to entertainment – far more than the numbers opting for other categories (see Key Stats) – a new wave of fan subsets offers a window into their preferences and, therefore, key brand access points. From the ultra-committed Otaku Disciples (and their insider terminology) to the casual New-Gen Anime Explorers, the romance-obsessed Shippers, and Cosplayer-Influencers’ costumed self-expression, we outline four key groups.

Must-Know TV Show Titles: Mainstays & The New Wave

Keeping up with the Gen Z US Anime Adorers means getting familiar with the roster of new-generation anime piquing the most interest – from recent top-viewed shows becoming mainstays of the fandom to the burgeoning wave of anime adaptations and new titles arriving on Netflix.

Fandom Havens: Online Hubs & IRL Events

With 40% of fans globally citing “community” as fandoms’ top emotional benefit, the US Gen Z Anime Adorers are busy creating their own networks. America’s Anime Adorers have found various places to congregate – My Anime List forums, YouTube companion content hubs, and IRL opportunities including convention meet-ups and immersive events are all popular.

Fandoms to Watch: The US Gen Z Anime Adorers

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Offering access to over 350 consumer and cross-industry reports annually, Stylus Membership is your window to tomorrow’s most exciting opportunities.

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Fandoms to Watch: The US Gen Z Anime Adorers

Fandoms to Watch: The US Gen Z Anime Adorers

Fandoms to Watch: The US Gen Z Anime Adorers

Fandoms to Watch: The US Gen Z Anim...

Fandoms to Watch: The US Gen Z Anime Adorers

US Gen Z are falling for anime: 42% now watch it at least weekly (Polygon, 2024), attracted to its swoony emotionality, adventurous spirit and parable-like narratives. For the first of Stylus’ Fandoms...

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