Global superstar The Weeknd is set to make a special appearance at the 10th Crunchyroll Anime Awards, taking place on 23 May in Tokyo, Japan.
The GRAMMY-winning artist will present one of the night’s biggest honours — Anime of the Year — at the annual celebration of anime’s biggest creators, series, and cultural moments.
View this post on Instagram
A full-circle anime moment
Long-time fans of The Weeknd will know that anime isn’t just a casual interest — it’s deeply embedded in his creative DNA.
In a statement, the artist shared how formative anime has been to his artistry, citing titles like Samurai Champloo and creators such as Shinichiro Watanabe as major influences. He also revealed that tracks like 'The Morning', 'Glass Table Girls', and 'Loft Music' from his breakout project House of Balloons were written over instrumentals inspired by Nujabes — a direct nod to anime’s sonic legacy.
He added that anime helped shape both his visual style and storytelling approach, naming legendary creators like Satoshi Kon, Mamoru Oshii, and Katsuhiro Otomo as key inspirations.
View this post on Instagram
Voting now open for fans worldwide
Fans can cast their votes daily across 32 categories, including the coveted Anime of the Year award, via Crunchyroll and partner platforms.
Anime of the Year nominees include:
- DAN DA DAN Season 2
- Gachiakuta
- My Hero Academia FINAL SEASON
- Takopi's Original Sin
- The Apothecary Diaries (Season 2)
- The Summer Hikaru Died
Voting is open until 15 April, with winners to be revealed during the live ceremony in Tokyo.
Like what you read? Show our writer some love!
-