Anime is, quite simply put — Japanese animation. In the 1960s, the works of cartoonist Osamu Tezuka gained a sizeable domestic following. It has since become a staple in modern pop culture and a global phenomenon with millions of active viewers worldwide.
But just how many people watch it?
How Many People Watch Anime?
While it’s difficult to pinpoint the exact number, estimations say somewhere between 40% and 60% of the global population watches anime.
Although its beginnings date back to the 1960s, anime didn’t gain its current popularity until the last couple of decades, and it’s been growing ever since.
Anime Stats and Facts
Anime is now an international sensation! These statistics will better explain why the anime industry is so integral to modern pop culture, from staples like Dragon Ball Z and Yu-Gi-Oh to newer shows like My Hero Academia.
In 2020, the global anime industry reached $28.9 billion in revenue.
(Globe News Wire)
This figure reveals that the anime industry is one of the more competitive market divisions in the world. Furthermore, predictions are that anime popularity will continue to increase at a CAGR of 7.9% and reach $61.8 billion in revenue by 2030.
“Demon Slayer” is the highest-grossing anime movie of all time.
(GameRant)
Having made over $500 million in total since its debut in 2020, “Demon Slayer: Mugen Train” tops the list of highest-grossing anime movies. Following closely behind was “Your Name” ($448 million+) in second place and the classic “Spirited Away” ($446 million+) in third.
“Dragon Ball Z” is one of the most-watched anime shows of all time.
(Latin American Post)
Although it’s been 35 years since its debut in Japan, the sensation that is “Dragon Ball Z” is still very present in modern culture. When they see his image, most people who don’t even watch anime can recognize Goku, the main protagonist.
The largest audience of anime watchers is, of course, in Japan.
(Anime Motivation, Epic Dope)
Although our research has found conflicting data, there’s no denying that Japan tops the list. Furthermore, according to Google’s data, the Philippines and Saudi Arabia follow closely behind.
However, other info places the US directly behind Japan and indicates a large audience for anime in Canada, as they’re ninth on the list.
Anime voice actors usually make between $75 and $100 per hour.
(Anime News Network)
This amount may seem like a pretty decent wage. But voicing anime is usually a freelance job, which could be great. However, this also means that the production studio may only need a voice actor for a few hours per week.
Thousands of anime animators only earn around $250 per month.
(New York Times)
On a darker note, the anime industry hasn’t been too kind to their fellow animators. Despite creating something every anime watcher enjoys, they are being severely underpaid. And while it’s true that some make thousands of dollars, many animators live in poverty.
Conclusion
Overall, the anime industry is a powerful force in today’s culture, and its long-term impact is undeniable. Millions of anime lovers worldwide have been introduced and have fallen in love with some fantastic characters that they’ve grown to love.
Sources:
- Anime Motivation
- Anime News Network
- Epic Dope
- GameRant
- Globe News Wire
- Latin American Post
- New York Times
Damjana Cikaric
After teaching for 8 years, Damjana found a new challenge — writing. With her academic background in the English language, doing research and writing is always fun and enjoyable. In her spare time, she loves binge-watching TV shows, especially crime documentaries, or spending time with her dogs.
