The anime and voice acting industry in Japan continues to thrive, with 2024 and 2025 proving to be pivotal years marked by major trends, exciting developments, and significant changes in leadership that are shaping the future of the market.

 

In the middle of the scandal with the famous TV presenter (a former SMAP), on January 27, 2025, Fuji Television announced the appointment of Kenji Shimizu as its new president, following the resignation of Hiroshi Minato. Shimizu, a veteran of the animation industry, has an extensive background in producing some of the most iconic anime titles in Japan, including "Dr. Slump Arale-chan," "Dragon Ball," and "Chibi Maruko-chan." His career spans decades, with Shimizu playing a critical role in establishing Fuji TV as a cornerstone of Japan’s animation landscape. In his inaugural statement, Shimizu emphasized his commitment to delivering content that brings joy to audiences while ensuring accountability and trust in all aspects of the company’s operations. This leadership transition comes at a time when anime continues to capture global audiences, and Fuji TV’s animation department is expected to play an even larger role in this rapidly growing market.

 

One of the most discussed trends in the anime industry is the increasing global presence of Japanese animation. In recent years, anime has grown from a domestic cultural phenomenon into a global entertainment powerhouse, with streaming platforms and international partnerships driving accessibility. In 2024, the anime market saw significant contributions from franchises like "Demon Slayer" "Attack on Titan" and "My Hero Academia" which dominated not only Japanese but also international streaming platforms. The demand for anime content has surged, prompting studios to expand their production schedules, invest in cutting-edge animation technology, and collaborate with global distributors to maximize their reach.

 

This globalization has also had a profound impact on voice actors, who are experiencing unprecedented visibility and demand. Voice acting has become an increasingly competitive field, with annual rankings like Anime Hack’s 2024 Voice Actor Event Appearance Rankings highlighting the industry’s most active talents. The overall top spot went to Yū Serizawa, a member of the hybrid voice acting and idol group i☆Ris. Serizawa’s busy schedule was driven by the release of two major films featuring her group: "i☆Ris the Movie – Full Energy!!" and "Live & Documentary Movie i☆Ris on Stage." These projects not only highlighted the multifaceted roles of voice actors in today’s anime ecosystem but also underscored the industry’s ability to merge music, voice acting, and live performances into a single entertainment package.

 

In the male voice actor category, Nobuhiko Okamoto secured the number one position, thanks to his diverse activities, including appearances in events tied to popular series like "My Hero Academia" "Re:Zero" and "Blue Exorcist." Okamoto’s ability to adapt to various formats—ranging from stage readings to talk shows and large-scale events—reflects the evolving nature of voice acting, where performers are expected to engage with fans across multiple mediums. This shift in expectations is part of a larger trend where the line between voice actors and traditional celebrities continues to blur, with many voice actors expanding their careers into singing, acting, and even social media influence.

 

The year also saw a wave of personal milestones for voice actors. Several prominent figures in the industry announced their marriages, including Kanako Takatsuki, known for her role as Hanamaru Kunikida in "Love Live! Sunshine!!," and Sora Tokui, who played Nico Yazawa in "Love Live!" These announcements, shared directly with fans via social media, sparked celebrations within the anime community and highlighted the increasingly personal connection between voice actors and their audiences.

 

A key development in early 2025 was the announcement of Aika Kobayashi’s agency transfer. Known for her portrayal of Yoshiko Tsushima in "Love Live! Sunshine!!," Kobayashi’s decision to move from Newcome to Voice Kit marked the beginning of a new chapter in her career. Her heartfelt message, expressing gratitude for her previous agency and excitement for the future, resonated deeply with fans, who expressed their unwavering support and enthusiasm for her upcoming projects. Kobayashi’s move also reflects the dynamic nature of the voice acting industry, where agency shifts can signal new opportunities for growth and creative exploration.

 

Meanwhile, the broader animation market has seen significant technological advancements, particularly in the integration of artificial intelligence and digital production techniques. Studios are experimenting with AI-driven tools to streamline the animation process, from background design to character movement. While traditional hand-drawn animation remains a hallmark of the industry, the incorporation of new technologies is enabling faster production cycles and more intricate visual effects, catering to the ever-growing demand for high-quality content.

 

At the same time, concerns about the working conditions of animators and voice actors have become a central topic of discussion. Advocacy for fair wages, improved working hours, and better mental health support is gaining momentum, with industry leaders and unions calling for systemic changes to ensure sustainability. These conversations are particularly relevant as studios face mounting pressure to deliver content at a breakneck pace to meet global demand.

Another significant trend is the growing influence of female empowerment within the anime industry. Female voice actors, in particular, are taking on more prominent roles, not only in performances but also in leadership and creative contributions. This shift is reflected in rankings like Anime Hack’s, where female voice actors dominate the charts, and in the increasing visibility of women in production and directorial roles.

 

The rise of theatrical anime films continues to be a major driver of the industry’s success. Movies like "Suzume no Tojimari" by Makoto Shinkai and the "Evangelion" reboot series have set new benchmarks for box office performance, proving that anime films can compete with live-action blockbusters on a global scale. These successes have encouraged studios to invest more heavily in feature-length projects, which often serve as both creative showcases and lucrative revenue streams.

 

As the anime industry moves further into 2025, the future looks bright but challenging. The appointment of Kenji Shimizu as Fuji TV’s president signals a renewed focus on innovation and quality, rooted in the company’s storied history of producing groundbreaking anime. At the same time, the industry’s global expansion, technological advancements, and evolving audience expectations present both opportunities and hurdles.

 

The voice acting community, with its growing visibility and influence, will undoubtedly play a central role in shaping this dynamic landscape. Fans around the world eagerly await what the next chapters of anime and voice acting will bring.

 

Source: Nikkan sports, Animate times, PR times, Oricon news, Yamagata news, Abema times