Anime fans don’t just wait for new seasons—they invest emotionally. And 2026 is shaping up to be one of those rare years where that patience finally pays off. From long-awaited sequels like Black Clover Season 5 to legendary adaptations like Steel Ball Run, this year isn’t packed with filler; it’s filled with stories fans have actively been asking for.
Whether you love high-stakes shonen battles, emotional drama, or comforting slice-of-life, the upcoming anime in 2026 offer something meaningful. Below is a well-researched, fan-focused list of the top 10 most anticipated anime of 2026, along with clear reasons why each title matters.
1. Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 (The Culling Game)
Why it’s one of the most anticipated anime of 2026: Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 is adapting the Culling Game Arc, a storyline that completely changes the tone of the series. Following the tragedy of Shibuya, the narrative becomes darker and far less predictable.
- Release Date: January 8, 2026
- The Hype: This season introduces deadly new characters like Hiromi Higuruma and the long-awaited Kinji Hakari. Why Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 is hyped comes down to its sheer scale—expect nonstop, high-level combat with real consequences.
2. Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War – Part 4 (The Calamity)
Why this finale means everything to fans This is more than a new season — it’s the definitive ending of an era. Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War – Part 4, officially titled The Calamity (Kashintan), concludes a story fans waited over a decade to see animated with the quality it truly deserves.
- Release Date: July 2026
- Studio: Pierrot Films
- The Hook: This final cour adapts the climactic battle against Yhwach, the Father of the Quincies. Why anticipation is massive is due to the unprecedented involvement of creator Tite Kubo. He has confirmed that this part will feature anime-original scenes—including an expanded role for Toshiro Hitsugaya and the long-awaited debut of Ichigo’s “Horn of Salvation” form.
- The Production: After the cinematic success of the first three cours, Studio Pierrot is pulling out all the stops for the series finale. With a darker, more mature tone and a soundtrack that has become legendary, this is the most anticipated anime of 2026 for many “Big 3” fans.
For a generation that grew up watching Ichigo Kurosaki, this isn’t just about hype. It is the final payoff for 20 years of loyalty
3. Black Clover Season 5 (Spade Kingdom Raid)
Why fans have been waiting years for this: Few anime returns are as demanded as Black Clover Season 5. The anime paused just as the explosive Spade Kingdom Raid Arc was beginning, leaving fans desperate for more.
- The Hook: This arc represents the peak of the story—fast pacing and massive emotional stakes.
- Why anticipation is so high: We finally get to see Asta’s Devil Union reach its most powerful stage. For longtime fans, why Black Clover Season 5 is anticipated is simple: it’s the payoff for years of loyalty and one of the most awaited anime sequels of 2026.
4. JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Steel Ball Run
Why JoJo fans call this the best part: Steel Ball Run isn’t just another JoJo chapter—it’s a masterpiece. Set during a brutal cross-country horse race in the 1890s, this arc trades flashy chaos for psychological depth and moral ambiguity.
- Release Date: March 19, 2026 (Netflix)
- The Vibe: Following Johnny Joestar and Gyro Zeppeli, this Steel Ball Run anime adaptation is a dream come true. Many consider it the best-written arc in the entire franchise, making it a frontrunner for the best upcoming anime 2026.
5. Oshi no Ko Season 3
Why this anime connects so deeply: Oshi no Ko Season 3 continues its raw exploration of fame, identity, and emotional trauma. Unlike action-heavy shows, this series draws viewers in through realism and uncomfortable truths about the idol industry.
- The Hook: Adapting the “Mainstay” and “Scandal” arcs, the story tackles obsession and ambition honestly. It’s the kind of anime releasing in 2026 that stays with you long after the credits roll.
6. Fate/strange Fake
Why Fate fans are excited for something different: Fate/strange Fake breaks the traditional Holy Grail War structure. Set in the USA, this series features unconventional servants and alliances where nothing feels stable.
- The Hook: Produced by A-1 Pictures, this Fate/strange Fake anime offers a darker, more chaotic narrative than previous entries. It’s a risky, high-budget project that stands out among upcoming anime in 2026.
7. My Hero Academia: Vigilantes Season 2
Why this spin-off feels more grounded: Unlike the main series, My Hero Academia Vigilantes Season 2 focuses on heroes who operate outside the system. It shows the true cost of heroism without fame or recognition.
- Release Date: January 5, 2026
- The Vibe: Fans appreciate the grittier storytelling and smaller, more personal stakes. It’s the perfect choice for viewers who want depth over spectacle.
8. Beastars Season 3 Part 2 (The Final Season)
Why fans want a strong ending: Beastars has always explored identity and instinct through complex characters. The final part of Beastars Season 3 Part 2 is highly anticipated because fans want a meaningful resolution to Legoshi and Louis’s journeys.
- Release Date: March 2026 (Netflix)
- The Conflict: The showdown with the hybrid villain Melon promises to be the emotional climax the series deserves.
9. That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime: Tears of the Azure Sea
Why the movie format works here: This That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime movie 2026 release allows for higher animation quality and a tighter story.
- The Plot: It expands the world-building of Rimuru’s nation without dragging the main TV plot. With a February release, it serves as the perfect lead-in to Season 4 in April.
10. Goodbye, Lara
Why original anime still matter: Original anime come with no spoilers, making them the ultimate wildcard. Goodbye, Lara has gained massive attention because early visuals from Kinema Citrus suggest a deeply emotional, mermaid-inspired tale.
- Why it’s special: It feels intimate and reflective, proving that anime fans are excited for in 2026 more than just big-name sequels—they want new, heartfelt stories.
Why 2026 Is a Big Year for Anime Fans
The strength of 2026 lies in its variety. Massive shonen sequels, emotional dramas, experimental originals, and wholesome slice-of-life anime all coexist. Nothing feels random; everything feels intentional and high-quality.
Final Thoughts The most anticipated anime of 2026 aren’t just popular—they’re trusted. Fans believe these stories will deliver the quality and lasting impact they’ve been waiting for.
Now tell us 👇
Which of these upcoming anime in 2026 is at the top of your watchlist?
