Upcoming Anime in 2026: 10 Most Anticipated Series and Movies Ranked

With 2026 fast approaching, anime fans are already looking far beyond the Winter season and toward what promises to be one of the most stacked years of the decade. From long-awaited adaptations and blockbuster sequels to bold original projects, the Upcoming Anime in 2026 lineup is packed with potential classics that will likely redefine the industry standards for years to come.

Major franchises like Jujutsu Kaisen and Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End are returning with highly anticipated new seasons, while beloved manga such as Witch Hat Atelier are finally making their anime debuts. On top of that, 2026 will also deliver major theatrical releases, including the long-awaited return of Puella Magi Madoka Magica, ensuring that the Most Anticipated Anime in 2026 will span both television screens and cinema houses worldwide.

The Best Upcoming Anime of 2026: Officially Ranked

As fans ask, “What anime are coming out in 2026?“, the schedule is beginning to take a very impressive shape. Here is a breakdown of the top projects currently confirmed or highly projected for the year.

1. Witch Hat Atelier

This is perhaps the anime confirmed for 2026 that has the highest expectations regarding visual fidelity. Produced by Bug Films, it follows Coco, a girl who discovers the secrets of magic.

• Key Features: Breathtaking art direction, intricate world-building, and a magical system based on drawing.

• Release Window: April 2026.

2. Puella Magi Madoka Magica: Walpurgisnacht Rising

Leading the list of upcoming anime movies 2026, this sequel to the 2013 Rebellion film is a decade in the making. It marks the return of the dark magical girl genre’s most iconic franchise.

• Key Features: Studio SHAFT’s avant-garde visuals and a conclusion to Homura’s tragic journey.

• Format: Theatrical Movie.

3. Akane-banashi

A unique entry in the fantasy anime 2026 landscape—not because of magic, but because of the “magic” of storytelling. It focuses on Rakugo, a traditional Japanese performance art.

• Key Features: High-stakes “non-battle” shonen drama and deep cultural exploration.

• Director: Ayumu Watanabe.

4. Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3

The Culling Games Arc will be the centerpiece of the Upcoming Anime in 2026. This high-octane battle royale will push the sorcerers to their absolute limits.

• Key Features: MAPPA’s top-tier choreography and the introduction of Hakari Kinji.

• Release Window: Early 2026.

Read more:

A Major Jujutsu Kaisen Season 3 Announcement is Coming October 9

5. JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Steel Ball Run

When considering “Which anime series are confirmed for 2026?“, Steel Ball Run stands as a titan. This reboot of the JoJo universe moves the setting to a cross-country horse race in America.

• Key Features: A more mature “Seinen” tone and a unique Western aesthetic.

• Platform: Netflix.

6. Black Torch

A surprising upcoming anime 2026 release given the manga ended years ago. It follows Jiro Azuma, a ninja who can communicate with animals, in a supernatural action thriller.

• Key Features: Urban fantasy elements and sleek character designs.

• Release Window: July 2026.

7. Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End Season 2

The return of this fantasy anime 2026 powerhouse will cover the immediate aftermath of the First Class Mage Exam.

• Key Features: Melancholic storytelling and philosophical explorations of time.

• Release Window: Winter 2026.

8. The Apothecary Diaries Season 3

Maomao returns to solve more palace mysteries. This season is expected to be split into two cours, making it a mainstay for the year.

• Key Features: Political intrigue and a shift in the primary setting.

• Release Window: October 2026.

Read more:

Top 5 Best Anime like Apothecary Diaries

9. Hell’s Paradise Season 2

Gabimaru the Hollow continues his search for the Elixir of Life. This is a core part of the dark fantasy wave hitting in 2026.

• Key Features: A collaboration theme by Tatsuya Kitani and BABYMETAL.

• Release Window: January 2026.

10. Goodbye, Lara

A standout romance anime 2026 project, this original work by Kinema Citrus reimagines The Little Mermaid as a modern-day reincarnation story.

• Key Features: Soft shojo aesthetics and emotional, character-driven narrative.

• Theme: Modern-day Japan reincarnation.

Technical Insights and Industry Outlook

Many enthusiasts are curious: “Which studios are producing anime in 2026?” The year will see heavy hitters like MAPPA (Jujutsu Kaisen, Hell’s Paradise), Studio Pierrot (rumored projects), Bug Films (Witch Hat Atelier), and Kinema Citrus (Goodbye, Lara) leading the charge. These studios are focusing on higher production values and longer production cycles to ensure quality.

Frequently Asked Questions About Anime in 2026

• Will there be more romance anime in 2026? Yes, alongside Goodbye, Lara, several unannounced light novel adaptations are expected to fill the romance anime 2026 slots.

• Are there any major movies? Aside from Madoka Magica, several upcoming anime movies 2026 include original projects from Makoto Shinkai’s associates and franchise sequels.

• Is the 2026 schedule final? No, while many are anime confirmed for 2026, specific dates may shift due to production needs.

From blockbuster sequels to long-awaited adaptations, 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting years in anime history. Whether you’re a fan of shōnen action, emotional fantasy, psychological drama, or artistic storytelling, the Upcoming Anime in 2026 has something unforgettable in store for every viewer.