Crunchyroll has officially unveiled its Spring 2026 anime slate, a massive collection of 30+ titles headlined by the long-awaited adaptation of Witch Hat Atelier and the return of Fullmetal Alchemist creator Hiromu Arakawa with Daemons of the Shadow Realm. The season kicks off on 28 March with Agents of the Four Seasons: Dance of Spring, marking a high-stakes quarter for the Sony-owned streaming giant.
However, the celebratory atmosphere is tempered by ongoing friction. Crunchyroll is currently investigating claims of a security breach following reports of an alleged cyber-attack. While the company has stated they are “working closely with leading cyber-security experts,” the timing casts a shadow over a season that includes heavy hitters like Re:ZERO -Starting Life in Another World- Season 4 and That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 4.
The standout of the season is undoubtedly Witch Hat Atelier, produced by the relatively young BUG FILMS. Directed by Ayumu Watanabe (Children of the Sea), the project has faced numerous delays since its 2022 announcement. The studio has publicly vowed to “do justice” to the intricate illustrations of creator Kamome Shirahama, a task that many industry insiders consider the most difficult aesthetic challenge in modern animation.
Joining it on 4 April is Daemons of the Shadow Realm, which sees Hiromu Arakawa reunite with Studio Bones. Directed by Masahiro Andō (Sword of the Stranger), the series is confirmed for a two-cour run. This marks a major push for Bones, who are looking to capture the “dark fantasy” crown that MAPPA has held in recent years.
Speaking of MAPPA, they finally bring Dorohedoro Season 2 to the platform on 1 April. This is a significant “rescue” for Crunchyroll, as the first season was famously locked in “Netflix jail” for years. The move suggests a consolidating grip on cult-favourite licenses by the Sony/Aniplex ecosystem.
Premieres and Proxies
While the slate launches digitally in late March and April, the “Information Gain” for UK fans lies in the May convention circuit. MCM London Comic Con (22–24 May 2026) is the prime candidate for mid-season dub premieres or exclusive “behind-the-scenes” panels with Studio Bones or WIT Studio staff.
Closer to home for our Edinburgh-based readers, Kaiju Con (formerly Rai Con) hits Glasgow’s SEC on 16 May 2026. Given the timing, this event could serve as a crucial barometer for the popularity of the new slate amongst the Scottish community. Furthermore, the recently reopened Edinburgh Filmhouse on Lothian Road is expected to be a focal point for later-year screenings, though fans should keep an eye on May for any surprise “simulcast events.”
Additionally, the “split-cour” fatigue remains a risk for Dr. STONE SCIENCE FUTURE. Listed as “Cour 3,” this final voyage for Senku and the Kingdom of Science faces the challenge of maintaining momentum in a season crowded with four sequels and the prestige launch of The Drops of God by Satelight.
Crunchyroll’s 2026 Spring Season promises an immersive world of events and must-have merchandise, fueling fans’ love of anime across all territories.
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