Crunchyroll Launches Brand New 24/7 Anime Channel Free For Everyone
Crunchyroll just introduced a free, new 24/7 anime channel alongside its existing on-demand streaming service in the United States, according to the company website. The network features a curated selection of popular anime programs to provide a user-friendly gateway for newcomers to explore the exciting world of Japanese animation.
Crunchyroll has launched a free 24/7 anime network.
The channel organizes its shows into themed program blocks covering various genres and includes English-dubbed versions of some series. The network launched October 11 on platforms like The Roku Channel, LG Channels, and VIZIO Watchfree+.
Amazon Freevee will host the channel starting on October 17. Crunchyroll’s new and premium content will remain accessible via its subscription and ad-supported video-on-demand services.
“And thanks to our distribution partners at launch, millions of fans have easy access to the medium which is taking the world by storm!”
Crunchyroll president Rahul Purini
Crunchyroll’s new channel will include a thoughtfully selected lineup of beloved titles, including Horimiya, Ranking of Kings, Moriarty the Patriot, Psycho-Pass, Arifureta, Sugar Apple Fairytale, Code Geass, and To Your Eternity. For seasoned anime enthusiasts, the name Code Geass likely rings a bell, as the sci-fi mecha saga debuted in 2006 with the release of Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion.
Over the years, this franchise has spawned several sequels and spinoff works, such as Lelouch of the Rebellion R2 in 2008, an amusing OVA parody titled Code Geass: Nunnally in Wonderland from 2012, and the feature film Lelouch of the Re;surrection released in 2019. Anime has grown into a global phenomenon in recent years, with Crunchyroll serving as a direct portal into this exciting world.
According to Crunchyroll President Rahul Purini, the goal of the 24/7 network is to offer millions of fans effortless access to this medium that is captivating audiences worldwide. “The Crunchyroll channel is a gateway to the world of anime where we will guide viewers to discover new worlds, stories, and characters,” Purini said.
“And thanks to our distribution partners at launch, millions of fans have easy access to the medium which is taking the world by storm!” the Crunchyroll President added. The global popularity of anime is due to various factors, including accessibility, quality, and an enthusiastic fanbase. This has allowed anime to firmly establish itself as a cultural and entertainment phenomenon.
Jujutsu Kaisen 0 and One Piece Film: Red are examples of anime movies that have performed exceptionally well at international box offices. Jujutsu Kaisen 0 is a prequel to the popular Jujutsu Kaisen series, while One Piece is a long-running and beloved franchise. Spy x Family is a manga and anime series known for its unique blend of action, comedy, and family dynamics.
The Origins Of Crunchyroll
Crunchyroll was formed in 2006. It was founded by a group of University of California, Berkeley graduates, including Kun Gao, and initially started as a website for streaming illegally uploaded anime episodes. However, the platform later shifted its focus to legitimate streaming and distribution of anime, with an extensive library.
Crunchyroll secures licensing agreements with various Japanese anime production companies, enabling it to offer simulcasts of new episodes shortly after their Japanese broadcast. The platform operates on free and premium subscription models. Free users can access the content with occasional advertisements, while premium subscribers enjoy an ad-free experience.
In addition to streaming, Crunchyroll fosters a thriving online community where fans can discuss their favorite series and related topics. They also operate an online store that sells merchandise related to popular anime and manga titles. The service was acquired by Sony’s Funimation Global Group in 2021, contributing to the consolidation of some services and content within the anime streaming industry.
