The 2025 Crunchyroll Anime Awards, held at Tokyo’s Grand Prince Hotel Shin Takanawa, made history by honoring the groundbreaking anime series Attack on Titan with the first-ever Global Impact Award. This prestigious new accolade celebrates creative works that have made a profound mark on pop culture and deeply influenced audiences around the world.
The award was accepted by a representative from animation studio MAPPA, which produced the anime’s final seasons, on behalf of series creator Hajime Isayama and the entire production team. The ceremony was a glittering event, hosted by voice actress Sally Amaki and renowned Japanese entertainer Jon Kabira. A-list presenters included actor Finn Wolfhard, Olympic gold medalist Chloe Kim, and pop star Pabllo Vittar.
A Decade-Long Journey to Recognition
Attack on Titan first aired in 2013, based on Hajime Isayama’s manga that ran from 2009 to 2021. Over its decade-long journey, the series captivated audiences with its intricate storytelling, emotionally complex characters, and philosophical explorations of themes such as freedom, oppression, and the cyclical nature of violence.
The anime concluded in 2023 with a feature-length finale, Attack on Titan: The Final Chapters. The series’ conclusion marked the end of an era for fans worldwide who had followed its suspenseful and thought-provoking narrative arc since its inception.
However, the road to this recognition was not without controversy. The manga’s ending in 2021 sparked intense backlash from a segment of the fanbase, with some expressing disappointment in the resolution. This criticism even led to harassment of Isayama and his editorial team. Despite the tumult, Isayama made a public appearance at Anime NYC in 2022, where he spoke candidly about his doubts and received a standing ovation from the audience. This moment became a poignant testament to the series’ emotional impact and enduring legacy.
Cultural Legacy and Western Influence
Beyond its narrative success, Attack on Titan has played a pivotal role in introducing anime to mainstream Western audiences. In 2021, it became the most-watched television program in the United States, outpacing even popular Western shows. The series also set a Guinness World Record for being the most in-demand anime TV show, further solidifying its cultural relevance.
The show’s portrayal of moral ambiguity, shifting allegiances, and the consequences of vengeance resonated with a global audience. Its gritty realism and willingness to explore the darker aspects of human nature distinguished it from typical fantasy narratives and elevated it as a mature, thought-provoking piece of art.
This recognition at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards signifies the growing acknowledgment of anime’s influence in shaping global pop culture. For many young viewers, anime is not just entertainment but a meaningful part of their identity. Surveys show that nearly 40% of teen anime fans feel anime has shaped their worldview, while around 30% say it has affected their personal beliefs and attitudes.
Looking Ahead: A New Standard for Excellence
The Global Impact Award sets a new benchmark for excellence in anime. By honoring Attack on Titan, the award sends a clear message: anime is not only capable of telling compelling stories but also of leaving a profound and lasting impression on global culture.
As the anime industry continues to evolve, such accolades underscore the importance of creative storytelling that transcends cultural boundaries. Attack on Titan has not only redefined the expectations for anime but has also inspired a new generation of creators and fans alike.
With its blend of narrative depth, artistic integrity, and global appeal, Attack on Titan has earned its place among the most influential works of the 21st century. The Global Impact Award serves as a fitting tribute to a series that challenged conventions and reimagined what anime could be.
