Crunchyroll announced the winners of the 2026 Anime Awards in Tokyo, naming My Hero Academia as the Anime of the Year [1, 3].
The event marks the 10th anniversary of the awards, reflecting the global growth of the medium and the massive scale of its international fanbase [2, 5].
The ceremony, which was streamed online worldwide, recognized excellence across multiple categories [2, 3]. Among the top honors, The Apothecary Diaries took home the award for Best New Anime [1, 3]. These accolades are determined by a combination of fan voting and industry recognition, highlighting the most impactful series of the previous year [1, 2].
Participation reached a record high for the organization. A total of 73 million votes were cast for the 2026 awards [4]. This volume of engagement underscores the expanding reach of the streaming platform and the competitive nature of the anime community.
The awards were held live in Tokyo, Japan, serving as a centerpiece for the industry's annual celebrations [2, 3]. While the list of nominees featured a diverse array of genres, the victory for My Hero Academia signals the continued dominance of long-running shonen series in the global market [1, 3].
Crunchyroll organizers said the anniversary milestone was used to celebrate the evolution of the awards since their inception [2, 5]. The event provides a snapshot of current viewing trends and the specific titles that resonate most with audiences across different continents [1, 2].
“My Hero Academia wins Anime of the Year”
The 73 million votes cast indicate that anime has transitioned from a niche interest to a massive global entertainment pillar. The victory of a legacy series like My Hero Academia alongside a newcomer like The Apothecary Diaries suggests a market that values both established franchises and fresh intellectual property, ensuring the medium's long-term sustainability.
