Netflix just rolled out its Netflix anime slate 2025, and as a mom who’s been watching anime since my own school days, I find this news both hilarious and kind of amazing. At Anime Expo, Netflix revealed that over half of its global subscribers—yep, 50%!—now watch anime. That’s around 150 million households worldwide, apparently glued to shōnen fights, fantasy epics, or the latest heartwarming slice-of-life.

I honestly had to laugh at that number. It makes sense, though. We’ve all been there, saying just one more episode until 2 a.m. Netflix says anime viewership on their platform has tripled over the last five years. In 2024 alone, 33 anime series landed in their global top 10 non-English shows, streamed over a billion times. That’s a billion with a B. Clearly, anime isn’t just for the so-called “nerds” anymore—it’s prime-time viewing for families like mine who love curling up on the couch together.

Netflix Anime Slate 2025: Big Titles, Big Moves

This new Netflix anime slate 2025 is nothing if not ambitious. They’re promising big returning hits like Sakamoto Days Season 2—which was so fun in its first season and ranked in 54 countries’ top 10s for weeks on end. They’re bringing back Cyberpunk: Edgerunners for a second season (which has me excited and also slightly worried they’ll break my heart again).

We’re also getting Devil May Cry, Dan Da Dan Season 2, and even a charming little stop-motion My Melody & Kuromi series arriving in late July. Netflix isn’t holding back. It’s like they’ve realized, “Anime is mainstream now—let’s double down.” And honestly, I’m here for it. The more legit ways to watch, the better.

Is Crunchyroll Really in Trouble?

This is the question everyone keeps throwing around, and it cracks me up a bit because the answer is: probably not. Sure, the Netflix anime slate 2025 is impressive. They’re clearly trying to hook both new and existing fans. But if you’re anything like me, you know Crunchyroll is a whole different beast.

Crunchyroll has that deep, dedicated catalog, and their whole vibe just feels like it was made for anime fans. They have simulcasts so you can watch new episodes right after they air in Japan. They have better subtitles, more consistent dubs, and that sense of being part of a real community. And let’s be honest: Netflix costs like three times as much if you just want anime. Crunchyroll is more affordable if that’s your main thing.

Another important point? Aside from Netflix’s exclusive originals, a lot of the anime they offer is also on Crunchyroll, Hulu, or Disney+. So if you’re paying for Crunchyroll already, you’re not missing out. Netflix might be the gateway for casual fans, but it’s not going to replace the service anime die-hards rely on.

More Anime Everywhere Is a Win

Honestly, as an anime-loving mom, I think the whole thing is kind of awesome. Netflix making such a big play for anime just means more people are going to fall in love with it. My kids are getting into anime with me, and it’s one of those bonding experiences I didn’t even know I wanted. Seeing them pick favorite characters, cosplay, or yell at cliffhangers? It’s the best.

Having these shows on Netflix—where practically every family has an account—just normalizes anime as part of mainstream entertainment. It’s no longer something “weird” or “niche.” It’s just another thing you watch with the family, like any drama or comedy series.

So while Crunchyroll is probably watching Netflix’s anime moves with interest, they’re not exactly shaking in their boots. If anything, all this competition might make the anime world better for all of us. More options, more dubs, more quality. I say bring it on. I’ll be there, popcorn in hand, kids by my side, ready to binge the next big hit.

Source: The Hollywood Reporter