Anime Expo 2026: The Biggest Announcements and What They Mean
A recap of the major Anime Expo 2026 reveals, including Solo Leveling's first movie, Steel Ball Run, Witch Hat Atelier Season 2, and Ghost of Tsushima.
Anime Expo 2026: The Biggest Announcements and What They Mean
Anime Expo 2026 wrapped its four-day run on July 5 in Los Angeles, and the reveal slate was one of the densest in the convention's history. Crunchyroll headlined with more than ten new announcements, and panels from Aniplex, Warner Bros. Japan, Netflix, VIZ, and Kodansha filled out the calendar for the rest of 2026 and into 2027.
The headline reveals
The biggest surprises came from franchises fans have tracked for years. Here's what actually moved the needle at AX2026:
| Announcement | Studio / Publisher | What it is |
|---|---|---|
| Solo Leveling: Beyond the System | A-1 Pictures | First theatrical film, post-Season 2 |
| STEEL BALL RUN | (TBA) | Long-awaited JoJo part 7 adaptation |
| Witch Hat Atelier Season 2 | (TBA) | Sequel to 2026's breakout fantasy debut |
| Ghost of Tsushima: Legends | (TBA) | Anime adaptation of the multiplayer mode |
| Black Clover Season 2 | Studio Pierrot | Final-saga anime return |
| Kagurabachi | (TBA) | Hit Jump manga finally gets animated |
What Solo Leveling's movie tells us
Solo Leveling: Beyond the System is the franchise's first feature film, animated by A-1 Pictures and continuing after Season 2. The teaser visual and concept video confirm the studio is treating the property as a theatrical franchise, not just a TV hit. For a series that defined the post-2023 isekai-action wave, a movie debut signals confidence in the brand's global pull.
The 2026-2027 pipeline
AX2026 wasn't just about what's coming this year. The expo confirmed a slate stretching into 2027, including adaptations, original anime projects, and theatrical releases. Crunchyroll's dominance at the show — ten-plus announcements — reinforces how much of the Western licensing calendar runs through a single Sony-owned service.
Why this matters for viewers
The takeaway for fans is simple: the second half of 2026 and all of 2027 are already crowded. If you're behind on Witch Hat Atelier (our best fantasy anime of 2026 covers why it broke out), Kagurabachi, or Black Clover (see the Fall 2026 complete preview), the anime is about to make catching up urgent. The convention floor has effectively become the launchpad for the next two years of anime.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the biggest announcement at Anime Expo 2026?
Solo Leveling: Beyond the System, the franchise's first theatrical film animated by A-1 Pictures, was the headline reveal. STEEL BALL RUN and Witch Hat Atelier Season 2 also generated significant buzz among fans.
Which shows are confirmed for the 2026-2027 release window?
The pipeline includes Solo Leveling, Black Clover Season 2, Kagurabachi, and Ghost of Tsushima Legends, with Crunchyroll dominating the Western licensing calendar through ten-plus announcements at the expo.
Is Solo Leveling getting a movie?
Yes. Solo Leveling: Beyond the System is the franchise's first feature film, continuing after Season 2. The teaser visual and concept video confirm A-1 Pictures is treating it as a theatrical franchise.
How can I keep track of upcoming anime announcements?
Crunchyroll's seasonal calendars and convention coverage from Anime Expo and similar events are the best sources. The Fall 2026 complete preview and ongoing industry reporting will also track new reveals as they happen.