Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Season 4 aired in June, marking the conclusion of a captivating storyline that captivated audiences worldwide. While Demon Slayer’s absence has shaken up the weekly TV anime rankings in Japan, the dominance of unending anime series remains uncontested.
Demon Slayer’s Global Legacy
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba’s global popularity shows no signs of slowing down, even after its domestic TV run has concluded. According to Video Research’s latest data for the first week of July (July 1-7), the season focusing on the Hashira Training Arc maintained a strong showing on Netflix’s Global Top 10 chart.
This continued global success is a testament to the series’ well-developed characters, stunning animation, and thrilling fight sequences. Demon Slayer’s ability to resonate with audiences worldwide transcends cultural barriers and highlights the power of exceptional storytelling in anime.
Garnering a staggering 2 million views on the international streaming platform, it secured its position as the only top-ranking anime series in the TV (non-English) category.
Shifting Tides: The Return of Timeless Classics
With Demon Slayer and My Hero Academia Season 7 Part 1 bowing out, Japan’s TV anime landscape has witnessed a fascinating shift. Video Research’s data reveals a significant change in viewership patterns during the first week of July. Beloved long-running anime like Chibi Maruko-chan, Crayon Shin-chan, Doraemon, and Pokemon have surged back into the top 10 domestic TV anime rankings. This trend suggests that while new and trendy shows capture initial excitement, established series with dedicated fan bases hold immense power over Japanese viewers.
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This resurgence can be attributed to several factors. One reason is the sense of familiarity and comfort these shows provide. Having been around for years, even decades, they become ingrained in viewers’ lives. Watching them offers a comforting escape into established storylines and encounters with beloved characters that feel like old friends.
Finally, it’s worth noting the adaptability and evolution that many long-running anime demonstrate. These shows aren’t stuck in a time warp. They incorporate new animation techniques to keep the visuals fresh and engaging. They may also address contemporary social issues that resonate with modern audiences.
A Diverse Anime Landscape: Beyond Demon Slayer and Classics
The contrasting success of Demon Slayer’s global phenomenon and the enduring popularity of classic anime in Japan underscores the remarkable diversity and dynamism of the Japanese animation industry. It caters to viewers seeking both high-octane action adventures and comforting, familiar narratives.
Looking ahead, the future of Japanese anime appears vibrant and varied. New and innovative shows will continue to emerge, pushing creative boundaries and captivating audiences. Established series will strive to maintain their relevance and connection with viewers. This diversity ensures that Japanese anime will remain a captivating and influential force in global entertainment.
The enduring popularity of long-running anime can also be credited to their consistent quality. Many of these shows have solidified a successful formula that viewers can depend on. They deliver high production values, with animation styles that may evolve over time but still maintain a certain charm.
Demon Slayer: A Global Love
While the curtain has fallen on Demon Slayer’s domestic TV run, the success of classic anime reclaiming the top spots in Japan sends a clear message: “unending” anime remains a dominant force in the hearts of Japanese viewers.
This, combined with Demon Slayer’s global phenomenon and the evolving world of anime streaming, paints a picture of a dynamic and thriving Japanese animation industry that has something to offer audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
While the anime’s television run in Japan may have concluded, Demon Slayer’s global reign shows no signs of slowing down. With a dedicated fanbase, a critically acclaimed manga, and a successful movie in its wake (Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – The Movie: Mugen Train), there’s plenty more Demon Slayer content on the horizon. Fans are eagerly anticipating upcoming projects, such as the second Demon Slayer movie and potential future seasons of the anime.
