
The Town with Matthew Belloni Why Anime Is Becoming Undeniable in Hollywood
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Nov 14, 2025 In this engaging discussion, Rahul Purini, president of Crunchyroll and anime veteran, explores the explosive growth of anime in Hollywood and beyond. He highlights how global streaming services are transforming content accessibility and attracting a diverse audience, especially Gen Z. Rahul delves into what makes anime storytelling so relatable and how it serves as a tool for emotional connection. He also emphasizes the importance of authenticity in anime production, pointing out the unique charm that Japanese creators bring to the table.
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Streaming And Demographics Fueled Anime Boom
- Anime's global rise stems from streaming accessibility, pandemic viewing shifts, and changing demographics.
- These factors let anime open big theatrically outside Japan, as seen with Demon Slayer and Chainsaw Man.
Crunchyroll's Global Catalog Advantage
- Crunchyroll is the largest dedicated anime platform outside Japan with the biggest catalog.
- It serves 200+ countries and leverages catalog scale to reach global fans.
Younger Generations Drive Fandom Growth
- Anime fandom spans ages but skews younger; 44% of 13–54 general-entertainment fans watch anime.
- Among Gen Alpha, about 59% are regular anime viewers, showing strong youth adoption.

