In a recent interview, Crunchyroll CEO Rahul Purini boldly declared that “anime is mainstream and gigantic — it’s now undeniable how big anime is.” His statement comes at a time when anime has achieved unprecedented global influence, dominating streaming platforms, conventions, and even Hollywood collaborations. What was once considered a niche hobby has now become one of the most powerful entertainment industries in the world — and Crunchyroll, one of the leading distributors of anime outside Japan, stands at the heart of that transformation.
From Subculture to Cultural Powerhouse
Purini highlighted how the perception of anime has completely shifted over the past decade. Once seen as an underground or specialized medium, anime has now entered the global mainstream, embraced by audiences across all age groups and regions. Series like Attack on Titan, Jujutsu Kaisen, and Demon Slayer have shattered viewership records, topping streaming charts alongside Western hits like Stranger Things and The Boys. “Anime is no longer a side interest — it’s a cultural movement,” Purini explained, crediting both passionate fans and improved accessibility through streaming services.
Crunchyroll’s Expanding Role in the Industry
As one of the biggest anime streaming platforms worldwide, Crunchyroll has become a key driver of this growth. The platform now reaches over 100 million registered users and features more than 40,000 episodes of anime content. Purini discussed how the company’s partnerships with Japanese studios, merchandise expansion, and theatrical releases have allowed anime to flourish internationally like never before. “We’re not just streaming shows — we’re building bridges between cultures,” he said, emphasizing that anime’s emotional storytelling and universal themes resonate with audiences everywhere.
Fans and Creators Celebrate the New Era of Anime
Across social media, anime fans celebrated Purini’s statement as recognition of a long-awaited cultural milestone. “We’ve gone from being teased for watching anime to seeing it on billboards in Times Square,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter). Another added, “Crunchyroll and studios like MAPPA and Ufotable have made anime a global language.” Creators in Japan have also acknowledged this shift, noting that international audiences now play a vital role in shaping anime’s success and future directions.
Hollywood and Global Brands Join the Wave
Anime’s influence isn’t limited to streaming. Hollywood studios are increasingly adapting anime franchises, fashion brands like Gucci and Uniqlo have launched anime-themed collaborations, and major music festivals now feature anime-inspired performances. This crossover between industries highlights just how deeply anime has embedded itself into global pop culture. Purini noted that Crunchyroll’s ongoing collaborations with film distributors and gaming companies will continue to blur these lines even further.
A New Golden Age of Storytelling
Purini’s remarks reflect what many fans have already felt — that anime is in the midst of a new golden era. With more creative diversity, record-breaking budgets, and widespread recognition than ever before, the medium has evolved from a niche art form into one of the defining storytelling forces of the 21st century. As Purini summed it up, “Anime isn’t just popular — it’s shaping the future of entertainment.”
From Tokyo to Los Angeles, from streaming screens to cinema halls, anime’s global takeover is now undeniable — and according to Crunchyroll’s CEO, this is just the beginning.
