A new study carried out by the streaming platform Crunchyroll, in collaboration with the private research firm National Research Group (NRG), has revealed an impressive fact. This stands out as 54% of the Z generation Worldwide identifies as fans of anime.

This positions the Japanese animation genre not only as one more form of entertainment, but also as a Cultural phenomenon comparable to the impact of icons of music and sport.
The survey was conducted at 29,000 people between 13 and 54 years of age, distributed in seven countries, including Brazil, Mexico and the United States. The results leave no doubt that the Anime It’s not a niche anymore, it’s mainstream.
Anime vs Celebrities: The Surprise of Generation Z

The most revealing fact of the study is that the Anime is above world-renowned figures as Kendrick Lamar (48%) and very close to Beyonce (56%). In addition, it approaches LeBron James (59%) and Taylor Swift (60%) in terms of popularity among young people between 13 and 28 years old.
In fact, more than half of these young people assured that he “likes” or “loves” the anime. They also claim that they consume it at least once a month. This means that, for more than 50% of Generation Z, anime is part of their everyday life.
Millennials and Generation X join the phenomenon of Japanese animation

Although the stronger growth of the fandom occurs among the youngest, the anime has also conquered older generations. The 42% of millennials (people between 29 and 44 years old) identifies as a fan of the anime. meanwhile, 24% of generation X (between 45 and 54 years old) shares the same feeling.
In these groups, although the anime does not surpass celebrities like Keanu Reeves, Lionel Messi or Beyonce, yes it manages to position itself Above figures like the Kardashians, BTS and even Kendrick Lamar In the case of the millennials. This shows that interest in anime Not exclusive to a single generation. In addition, its influence continues to grow over time.
Anime competes with sports

One of the most striking data of the study is that the anime is also Competing with world-class sporting events. In Generation Z, only Olympic Games, the FIFA, the UEFA Champions League and the NBA They surpass the anime in popularity. This reflects the Level of emotional and cultural connection that anime has achieved among young people around the world.
Why Generation Z loves anime?

The study also analyzed the reasons why the anime has conquered so many young people from all over the world. between the main motivations that they found among the respondents to consume anime are:
- High quality animation (37%)
- Captivating characters and relationships (35%)
- Creative and imaginative stories (34%)
In the case of the millennials and the generation x, the main reason is narrative creativity, followed by visual quality and the Attractive characters. These data show that the anime It’s not just entertainment. It is an artistic form capable of convey complex emotions and connect deeply with the public.
Anime as a socialization tool

Far from being a lonely hobby, anime has also become a form of social interaction among young people from all over the world. The 58% of fans He confessed to sharing his passion with friends or family in person. In addition, the 43% discuss it on social networks and the 42% see it accompanied by others. This indicates that the anime has evolved to become A meeting space and community identity for millions of people.
Anime as part of cultural identity
According to Grady Miller, , how of NRG, the anime is ceasing to be considered simply a genre. becomes a form of global cultural expression. the executives of Crunchyroll They have also highlighted how digital accessibility and the High artistic level of the anime have contributed to the fact that millions of people around the world integrate it as a fundamental part of their identity.
Who are Generation Z?
According to Google data and other statistical sources, the GENERATION Z includes people born between 1997 and 2012. Some variants also indicate a range between 1995 and 2010. The important thing is that this generation has grown in a connected, digital and globalized world. Anime has found a privileged place within its cultural environment.