Television networks face stiff competition in the era of streaming, with platforms like Netflix, Freevee, and Disney+ vying for users’ attention. While traditional favorites like NFL have long dominated TV screens, anime is emerging as a formidable contender.

A recent report by Polygon delved into television preferences, surveying nearly 5,000 participants to understand viewing habits across different age groups. Surprisingly, the data revealed that Gen Z is more inclined to watch anime on a weekly basis compared to traditional sports like the NFL.

Survey Report

Among respondents over 18, the survey found that 42% of Gen Z participants regularly tune in to anime each week, surpassing the 25% who follow the NFL. This underscores the significant cultural impact of anime on Gen Z audiences, rivaling that of mainstream sports.

In the United States, this trend underscores the growing influence of anime in streaming. While anime gained traction in the ’90s through services like Funimation and Pioneer releasing titles on home video, today’s youth can easily access a vast array of anime through streaming platforms like Crunchyroll and HIDIVE.

Major players like Netflix and Disney+ are also investing in anime content to cater to this expanding market.

Industry executives are keenly aware of the shifting preferences of fans, particularly among the lucrative Gen Z demographic. With Japan embracing new technological advancements, it’s likely that upcoming generations, including Generation Alpha, will view anime as mainstream entertainment rather than niche content.