More Than Half of Gen Z are Otaku, 54% of Gen Z identify as anime fans
More Than Half of Gen Z Are Otaku! A new global study released by Crunchyroll in partnership with the National Research Group (NRG) revealed that 54% of Gen Z worldwide identify as anime fans, putting the genre on par with major icons in music and sports.
The survey included 29,000 entertainment consumers aged 13 to 54 from seven countries, including Brazil, Mexico, and the United States.
More Than Half of Gen Z are Otaku
According to the data, anime among Gen Z surpassed the popularity of names like Kendrick Lamar (48%) and came close to Beyoncé (56%), LeBron James (59%), and Taylor Swift (60%). Among youth aged 13 to 28, 54% said they “like” or “love” anime and watch anime content at least once a month.
Other generations also showed interest: 42% of Millennials (ages 29 to 44) and 24% of Gen X (ages 45 to 54) identified as fans. In these groups, anime ranks below figures like Keanu Reeves, Lionel Messi, and Beyoncé but surpasses celebrities such as the Kardashians, BTS, and even Kendrick Lamar among Millennials.
The study also showed that, among sports, only the Olympics, FIFA, UEFA Champions League, and the NBA ranked higher than anime among Gen Z youth. This reinforces just how much Gen Z is Otaku!
Why Is Gen Z So Into Anime?
The main reasons cited for the interest in anime include high-quality animation (37%), compelling characters and relationships (35%), and imaginative and creative storytelling (34%). For Millennials and Gen X, the top draws are narrative creativity, followed by visual quality and engaging characters.
Additionally, the study revealed that 58% of fans share their passion in person with friends or family, 43% talk about anime on social media, and 42% watch it with others—showing that Gen Z also uses anime as a tool for social connection.
According to Grady Miller, CMO of NRG, anime is becoming “a truly global genre for young audiences” and represents more than just entertainment: it’s part of fans’ identities. Crunchyroll executives also commented on the emotional and cultural impact of anime, highlighting how accessibility and artistic quality have fueled the growth of the global fandom.
via Você Sabia Anime
