Anime, with its loveable characters, outstanding plots, and imaginative worlds, has captured the hearts of more than 100 million people worldwide. But did you know that some of your favorite celebrities are also anime lovers (deep down)?
From Hollywood stars to music icons, these famous personalities have publicly expressed their love for Anime. Let’s check out these famous names who proudly wear their otaku badges!
1. Michael B. Jordan: The Shonen Hero
Michael B. Jordan, known for his powerful performances in films like Creed and Black Panther, is a true anime aficionado. Here’s why he’s our top pick:
- Favorite Anime: Naruto: Shippuden
- Notable Fact: Jordan launched a clothing collection inspired by Naruto in collaboration with Coach. His love for the series shines through in his work. And guess what? He styled his Black Panther villain after none other than Vegeta from “Dragon Ball Z”!
2. Bill Nighy: The Pokémon Detective
Bill Nighy, the versatile British actor, stepped into the Pokémon universe as Howard Clifford in Detective Pikachu. His portrayal of the enigmatic entrepreneur was a delightful surprise for fans.
- Favorite Pokémon: Pikachu (Well, obviously!)
3. Ariana Grande: Spirited Away by Miyazaki
Pop sensation Ariana Grande isn’t just about high notes and killer fashion. She’s a devoted fan of Studio Ghibli’s masterpiece, Spirited Away. Grande even has tattoos of characters from the film!
- Favorite Scene: The iconic bathhouse transformation sequence
4. John Cena: You Can’t See His Anime Collection
WWE superstar and actor John Cena flexes his muscles in the ring and his anime knowledge outside it. His love for classic anime like Fist of the North Star is well-known.
- Hidden Talent: Cena can recite the entire “Omae wa mou shindeiru” meme flawlessly.
There are many other anime quotes associated with it, but that’s a long list!
5. Samuel L. Jackson: Afro Samurai’s Producer
Samuel L. Jackson isn’t just the king of cool; he’s also the producer of the anime series Afro Samurai. His unique taste in anime has made him a legend in the community.
- Signature Line: “I’ve had it with these m**fing ninjas on this m**fing quest!”
The following twitter post is an edited video, but it sure conveys the craze for anime.
6. Kirsten Dunst: Sailor Moon’s Moon Princess
Hollywood actress Kirsten Dunst has a soft spot for magical girls. Her love for Sailor Moon and Pokémon is well-documented.
- Dream Cosplay: Sailor Mars (She’d rock those fire-based attacks!)
7. Evgenia Medvedeva: Triple Axel, Triple Anime
Olympic figure skater Evgenia Medvedeva glides on ice and dives into anime. She’s a fan of Yuri!!! on Ice (fitting, right?) and Death Note.
- Signature Move: The “Kira” spin (not officially recognized in figure skating, but we wish it were!)
Medvedeva even performed an exhibition routine to the show’s theme song, capturing the hearts of both anime enthusiasts and skating aficionados. Her love for anime transcends national borders, making her a true global otaku.
8. Jungkook (BTS): Idol by Day, Otaku by Night
BTS member Jungkook isn’t just a global sensation; he’s also a dedicated anime fan. His favorite? Tokyo Ghoul.
- Hidden Talent: He can sing the opening theme of Attack on Titan flawlessly.
9. V (BTS): Bangtan Sonyeondan and Anime
Another BTS member, V, shares Jungkook’s love for anime. He’s a fan of One Piece and Attack on Titan.
- Dream Crossover: V as a pirate in the world of One Piece
10. Megan Thee Stallion: Hot Girl, Anime World
Megan Thee Stallion, the rap sensation, knows how to keep it hot in the music industry. But did you know she’s equally passionate about anime? From “Attack on Titan” to “My Hero Academia,” Megan dives into anime worlds during her downtime.
Her love for the medium is as fierce as her lyrics, and she’s unafraid to flaunt her anime fandom.
11. Elon Musk: The Futuristic Anime Enthusiast
Elon Musk, the tech visionary, and SpaceX founder might be busy launching rockets, but he also launches himself into anime adventures. His Twitter feed occasionally features anime references, and he’s expressed admiration for classics like “Ghost in the Shell.” Perhaps in a parallel universe, Musk is piloting a mecha suit while designing electric cars!
Here’s Elon Musk’s anime recommendation: Death Note, Evangelion, Ghost in the Shell, Spirited Away, Princess Mononoke, Full Metal Alchemist, and Your Name.
12. Brennan Williams: The Wrestling Otaku
Brennan Williams, a former NFL player turned professional wrestler, is not just about body slams and suplexes. He’s also a dedicated anime fan!
- Likes: Williams has been vocal about his love for anime, especially classics like “Dragon Ball Z” and “Naruto.”
His social media is a treasure trove of anime references, and he even incorporates anime-inspired moves into his wrestling repertoire. Whether he’s in the ring or catching up on the latest episodes, Williams brings his otaku spirit to every endeavor.
13. Pharrell Williams: Happy with Anime
Pharrell Williams, the musical genius behind hits like “Happy” and “Get Lucky,” finds joy not only in music but also in anime.
- His favorite? “Neon Genesis Evangelion”! Williams has spoken about the show’s impact on his creativity and worldview. He appreciates its blend of mecha battles, existential themes, and haunting music.
When he’s not producing chart-topping tracks, Pharrell immerses himself in the enigmatic world of NERV and the Eva units.
14. Kanye West
Kanye West, the enigmatic rapper and fashion icon, isn’t afraid to embrace the unconventional. His love for anime is no exception. West has referenced anime in his music videos, fashion designs, and even album covers. His admiration for the genre extends to classics like “Akira” and “Ghost in the Shell.” When he’s not pushing artistic boundaries, Kanye immerses himself in cyberpunk dystopias and philosophical musings.
15. John Boyega: The Galactic Anime Fan
John Boyega, known for his role as Finn in the “Star Wars” saga, isn’t just a hero in a galaxy far, far away. He’s also a hero in the anime universe!
Boyega has expressed his love for anime, particularly “Attack on Titan”. His admiration for the show’s intense storytelling and complex characters is evident. Whether he’s wielding a lightsaber or maneuvering the 3D Maneuver Gear, Boyega can master it easily.
16. Tobey Maguire: The Friendly Neighborhood Anime Enthusiast
Tobey Maguire, the original Spider-Man from the early 2000s film trilogy, swings into the anime scene with gusto.
- His favorite: “One Punch Man”!
Maguire appreciates the show’s unique blend of humor, action, and existential musings. Perhaps in an alternate universe, Spider-Man himself is a hero for fun, just like Saitama.
17. Leonardo DiCaprio: The Anime Dreamer
Leonardo DiCaprio, the Oscar-winning actor and environmental activist, has a soft spot for anime. Last year, the actor revealed one of his favorite movies of all-time is Princess Mononoke
- His favorite? “Akira”!
DiCaprio appreciates the film’s dystopian vision, stunning animation, and thought-provoking themes. Whether he’s sailing on the Titanic or navigating Neo-Tokyo, DiCaprio’s love for anime is as timeless as his filmography.
18. Malik Obama: The Presidential Anime Fan
Malik Obama, the half-brother of former U.S. President Barack Obama, shares more than just a family name.
His favorite? “Naruto”! Malik has expressed his love for the ninja-filled world of Konoha. Whether he’s discussing politics or practicing hand seals, he’s got a Hidden Leaf headband tucked away.
19. Will Smith: The Fresh Prince of Anime
Will Smith, the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air turned Hollywood superstar, has a taste for anime.
His favorite? “Dragon Ball Z”! Smith has mentioned his admiration for Goku’s journey from a young martial artist to a Super Saiyan. Whether he’s rapping or saving the world from aliens, Smith’s energy is over 9000.
The List of Celebrity Anime Fans Is Vvvvv Long!!!!
So, what do we learn from this bois? That Anime is a lot more than just cartoon (as referred by those who never watched it).
Sometimes, people demean Anime and say that it is a cartoon. But these celebrities proudly say that they watch it because they know the differences between anime and cartoons. So worry not—you can always smack this list of Celebrities who love anime into the faces of people who say anime is for kids.
