The Society for the Promotion of Japanese Animation (SPJA) has unveiled its comprehensive programming schedule for the highly anticipated Anime Expo 2025, scheduled to take place from July 3-6 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. This year’s event promises an impressive assortment of exclusive premieres, celebrations, engaging panels, appearances by talented individuals, and special guests, featuring collaborations with industry giants such as Aniplex of America, Arc System Works America, ATLUS/SEGA, Bandai Namco Entertainment, Crunchyroll, Funko, Hulu, KADOKAWA WORLD ENTERTAINMENT, INC., Konami, Netflix, Square Enix, Takaratomy, VIZ, Webtoon, and many others.
For those eager to explore the exciting offerings, a glimpse of the highlighted programming lineup is provided below. To access further details and register for Anime Expo 2025, visit anime-expo.org.
Featured Presentations and Guests
One of the standout highlights this year is the presence of Naoki Yoshida, a pivotal figure behind both FINAL FANTASY XIV and FINAL FANTASY XVI. Since joining Square Enix in 2005, Yoshida has played a crucial role in revitalizing the original FINAL FANTASY XIV into the acclaimed A Realm Reborn. As both producer and director, he continues to guide the franchise’s success and oversees Creative Studio III. Yoshida is also the producer of FINAL FANTASY XVI, the latest installment in this iconic series.
Also making an appearance is the manga artist duo Peach Pit, consisting of Sendou Banri and Ebara Shibuko, who are returning to Anime Expo for the first time in a decade. Their diverse portfolio spans various genres, including seinen, shojo, and shounen. Notably, their works such as Rozen Maiden, Zombie Loan, and Shugo Chara! have been adapted into anime, with Shugo Chara! earning the prestigious 32nd Kodansha Manga Award.
Mokumokuren, the creator of The Summer Hikaru Died, will also be featured. This coming-of-age horror story has garnered recognition, winning top honors at Takarajimasha’s This Manga is Amazing! 2023, and securing the 11th spot in the Manga Taisho awards.
Ryukishi07, known for his work on Higurashi and Umineko, will also join the lineup. His unique ability to intertwine elements of horror with themes of hope across both anime and manga has made his works resonate with audiences.
Last but not least, Manabu Otsuka, the president of MAPPA Co., Ltd., will be in attendance, along with Paru Itagaki, the award-winning manga artist known for BEASTARS. Itagaki’s latest work, SANDA, which began in 2021, is set to be adapted into an anime by Science SARU.
Premieres Not to Miss
Anime Expo 2025 will feature a variety of exciting premieres that fans won’t want to miss. One highly anticipated event is the U.S. Premiere of HYPNOSISMIC D.R.B Movie and UTA☆PRI TABOO NIGHT XXXX. This special double screening will showcase AX-exclusive versions of Japan’s first interactive anime film. Fans can participate in the film experience using the CtrlMovie App to vote during the screening.
Another significant premiere is the North American Premiere of Episode 1 of The Summer Hikaru Died (subtitled). This new work from CygamesPictures delves into the mysterious and the unknown. The event will feature appearances by original creator Mokumokuren, voice actor Chiaki Kobayashi (who voices Yoshiki), and producers from CyberAgent and KADOKAWA.
The exclusive premiere of LEVIATHAN will also take place, introducing audiences to the captivating journey of a fugitive prince named Alek and a commoner disguised as a boy as they embark on a thrilling adventure aboard the flying whale Leviathan. Fans are invited to join the creators from QUBIC PICTURES and STUDIO ORANGE for this exciting unveiling.
The U.S. premiere of TOUGEN ANKI promises to introduce audiences to a new generation of dark heroics. Attendees can experience this dark hero anime adaptation before its July release, featuring a panel with creator Yura Urushibara (online), voice actors Kazuki Ura, and producer Takanori Matsuoka.
Additionally, the U.S. premiere of Detective Conan: The Black Iron Submarine will draw crowds as it presents an action-packed mystery that has grossed over $100 million worldwide. Join Conan as he confronts a deadly plot that unfolds beneath the waves.
The world premiere of the GINTAMA spin-off anime, titled Mr. Ginpachi’s Zany Class, will also take place, offering exclusive footage, messages from the Odd Jobs crew, and behind-the-scenes insights. Attendees can also explore new merchandise and participate in Anime Expo’s exciting giveaways.
Special Events
Anime Expo 2025 is set to host a variety of special events that cater to a wide range of interests. The Jujutsu Kaisen Special Event will bring together fans of this mega-hit series, featuring special guests Junya Enoki (the Japanese voice of Yuji Itadori) and Megumi Ogata (the voice of Yuta Okkotsu).
In celebration of the beloved franchise, the My Hero Academia Special Event will provide fans with exclusive insights into the final season, which is set to premiere in October 2025. Attendees can expect appearances from Daiki Yamashita (the Japanese voice of Deku) and Justin Briner (the English voice of Deku), along with special announcements from Shonen Jump editors.
Demon Slayer enthusiasts will not want to miss the 6th Anniversary Celebration of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, which will feature live music from the series alongside a special guest appearance by Natsuki Hanae (the voice of Tanjiro Kamado).
The Hatsune Miku: Colorful Stage! Fan Meeting AX 2025 will be a must-attend event for fans of the popular rhythm game. This event will include a talk show with voice actors for key characters, musical performances, and a special reveal.
Anime Expo will also host the Sukeban, a groundbreaking event where the Japanese female pro-wrestling league will hold its inaugural World Championship Fight on July 5, 2025.
The Anime Expo 2025 Masquerade remains a key highlight, showcasing the best in cosplay from talented individuals competing for remarkable prizes and the coveted title of Best in Show.
Industry Panels
Anime Expo 2025 will feature a plethora of industry panels designed to provide fans with exclusive insights into upcoming content. The One-Punch Man Season 3 Panel will delve into the much-anticipated return of Saitama, with insights from the voice actor Makoto Furukawa.
Fans of Chainsaw Man can look forward to the MAPPA Panel, where President Manabu Otsuka and Vice President Hiroya Hasegawa will discuss the upcoming Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc.
The BLEACH: Thousand-Year Blood War Panel will showcase exclusive content and provide an opportunity for fans to engage in interactive quizzes for a chance to win exciting prizes.
Various other panels, including those focusing on JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, Ghost in the Shell, and Persona 5, will also take place, ensuring that attendees have ample opportunity to learn more about their favorite series and engage with industry professionals.
Anime Expo 2025 promises to be an exhilarating event packed with exclusive premieres, engaging discussions, and opportunities to connect with fellow fans and creators. Mark your calendars and prepare for an unforgettable experience in the heart of Los Angeles!
