Your Guide to Anime Expo 2026: Can’t-Miss Panels, Screenings, and More
Anime Expo 2026 officially begins in Los Angeles today. Over the next four days, the largest anime convention in North America will host hundreds of panels, screenings, and appearances. It can be a lot to sift through, but luckily, we’ve done the hard work for you. We’ve put together a guide to everything you won’t want to miss at Anime Expo this year, sorted by date and time. And if you want to see everything that’s on offer, you can check out the full schedule on Anime Expo’s official website. Here’s everything worth checking out at Anime Expo 2026.
Welcome Ceremony
Where: The Novo
When: 10:00-10:50 a.m.
Description: “The Welcome Ceremony is one of the most highly anticipated main events programming. It is where many AX attendees kick off the start of their Anime Expo journey.”
Crunchyroll Presents: The Exiled Heavy Knight Knows How to Game the System Early Screening
Where: JW Platinum
When: 10:00-10:50 a.m.
Description: “On his fifteenth birthday, Elymas undergoes the Ritual of Divine Blessing but is exiled and stripped of his inheritance after receiving the “defective” Heavy Knight class, which is widely mocked for its unbalanced stats and cowardice. However, Elymas secretly recognizes this world as the exact game he played in his past life, where the despised class is actually the most formidable of them all. Armed with this exclusive knowledge, he sets out to utilize his gaming memories and conquer the entire world. Join us for an early screening of The Exiled Heavy Knight Knows How to Game the System. The Exiled Heavy Knight Knows How to Game the System – Episode 1-3.”
Goodbye, Lara Ep 1 Screening & Behind the Scenes Talk with Director Takushi Koide (Supported by Crunchyroll)
Where: 403AB
When: 10:30-11:20 a.m.
Description: “Join our screen of the premiere episode of Goodbye, Lara! 200 years after dissolving into bubbles over a failed true love, Mermaid Princess Lara awakens in Lake Biwa. Following the show, enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes talk featuring the director, Takushi Koide! (Supported by Crunchyroll).”
Crunchyroll Presents: Hanaori-san Still Wants to Fight in the Next Life and Skeleton Knight in Another World Season 2 Early Screenings
Where: JW Platinum
When: 11:30 AM-12:20 p.m.
Description: “All is not what it seems! A demon king becoming friends with the very person responsible for his reincarnation?! A hero forced into disguise lest his comrades find out he’s a skeleton monster?! Join us for two exciting screenings where there is more than meets the eye! Hanaori-san Still Wants to Fight in the Next Life – Episode 1 Skeleton Knight in Another World – Season 2, Episode 1.”
Square Enix Manga & Books Industry Panel
Where: 408AB
When: 1:00-1:50 p.m.
Description: “Square Enix Manga & Books, the publisher behind Daemons of the Shadow Realm, My Dress-Up Darling, & The Apothecary Diaries invites manga fans to get the exclusive on their newest publishing announcements! Join us for editorial insights, new manga & book licensing announcements, & some surprises!”
Mushoku Tensei Season 3 Exclusive Premiere
Where: JW Platinum
When: 1:00-1:50 p.m.
Description: “Be among the first to experience the next chapter of Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation! Join us for an exclusive premiere screening of Season 3, as Rudeus’ journey continues with new challenges, deeper bonds, and unforgettable moments. Don’t miss this early look at one of the most anticipated isekai returns!”
The Tale of .hack//Z.E.R.O.: from Licensed IP to Unprecedented Self-Publishing
Where: 404AB
When: 1:39-2:20 p.m.
Description: “On its 30th anniversary, Japanese game developer CyberConnect2 announced .hack//Z.E.R.O., a new game in the series, which they’d gained permission from BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment to plan, develop, and publish. CC2 representatives will discuss the company’s history, self-publishing, and IP projects.”
Aniplex of America Industry Panel
Where: Petree Hall
When: 2:30-3:50 p.m.
Description: “Join Aniplex of America as we celebrate our past, present and future of anime and games with our brand new Industry Panel! Come experience the excitement, community, and nostalgia with us on a grander stage!”
HIDIVE Presents Hell Mode 2nd Season North American Premiere
Where: 403AB
When: 3:45 PM-4:35 p.m.
Description: “Level grind with us for the North American premiere of the HELL MODE: The Hardcore Gamer Dominates in Another World with Garbage Balancing! 2nd Season.”
Crunchyroll Presents: Overgeared and Saga of Tanya the Evil Season 2 Early Screenings
Where: JW Platinum
When: 4:00-4:50 p.m.
Description: “Youngwoo’s a deadbeat gamer who is about to exchange all his levels for the experience of a lifetime, while Tanya has to find (or fight) faith before she’s dragged back to hell. It’s the job of a lifetime for these two! Join us for early screenings of Overgeared and Saga of Tanya the Evil Season 2! Overgeared – Episode 1. Saga of Tanya the Evil – Season 2, Episode 1.”
Unveiling Kodansha’s Latest Manga
Where: 403AB
When: 5:15-6:05 p.m.
Description: “Kodansha—purveyors of exciting manga like Blue Lock, Gachiakuta, Witch Hat Atelier & more—invites fans for a first look at Kodansha’s latest slate of print manga licenses coming to a bookshelf near you! Join Kodansha to get this sneak peek, stay for the Q&A, & even come away with surprise giveaways!”
Crunchyroll Presents: The World’s Finest Assassin Gets Reincarnated in Another World as an Aristocrat Season 2 Early Screening and Smoking Behind the Super Market With You Screening
Where: JW Platinum
When: 5:30-6:20 p.m.
Description: “A smoking gun and smoking behind the market. Not a bad combo with these two characters. Join us for an early screening of The World’s Finest Assassin Gets Reincarnated in Another World as an Aristocrat, plus a screening of Smoking Behind the Supermarket with You! The World’s Finest Assassin Gets Reincarnated in Another World as an Aristocrat – Season 2, Episode 1. Smoking Behind the Super Market With You – Episode 1.”
First Look | Star Wars: Visions Presents — The Ninth Jedi
Where: JW Diamond
When: 6:00-7:20 p.m.
Description: “Join Production I.G and Lucasfilm for a screening of the first episode of Star Wars: Visions Presents — The Ninth Jedi, a new, animated limited series coming this summer to Disney+, and hear about the creative process from Supervising Director Kenji Kamiyama, Director Shunsuke Tada, Producer Hitoshi Ito, and Lucasfilm Executive Producers Jacqui Lopez and Josh Rimes. The episode will be screened in Japanese, with English subtitles.”
HIDIVE Presents The World Is Dancing Episode 1 Encore and Episode 2 North American Premiere
Where: 403AB
When: 6:45-7:35 p.m.
Description: “Why do people dance? Join us for this exclusive Director’s Cut of Episodes 1 & 2 of this sweeping historical drama that will make you laugh, cry and maybe even dance.”
TBS Anime Special Panel: Takopi’s Original Sin Producer Talk & Upcoming Anime Showcase
Where: 404AB
When: 6:45-7:35 p.m.
Description: “Since its release, Takopi’s Original Sin has deeply moved fans and become a major sensation. In this special panel, producers reveal behind-the-scenes stories, creative insights, and the passion that brought the series to life, followed by an exclusive presentation of TBS’s upcoming anime lineup.”
AOASHI — Changing the Game of Sports Anime
Where: 408AB
When: 10:00-10:50 a.m.
Description: “Step onto the field with AOASHI! Join our special MC and guests for exclusive sneak peeks of Season 2 (currently in production), behind-the-scenes talks, interactive fan challenges, and giveaways. Don’t miss this special session that explores what sets AOASHI apart in the world of sports anime.”
Gachiakuta – Return to the Pit! Exclusive First Look at Season 2 featuring Cast and Staff
Where: Peacock Theater
When: 10:00-11:00 a.m.
Description: “This garbage is getting serious! Come celebrate the thrilling, trash-filled first season of Gachiakuta with very special guests Aoi Ichikawa (voice of Rudo), Fumihiko Suganuma (director), and Naoki Amano (producer). Then, be among the very first to see what’s in store for Season 2, including an early sneak peek at brand new footage!”
Kyoto Animation’s New Frontier: Sparks of Tomorrow U.S. Premiere & Director Minoru Ota Q&A
Where: JW Platinum
When: 10:00-11:20 a.m.
Description: “This panel includes the U.S. Premiere of episode 1 and episode 2 before Netflix streaming, and the panel discussion of Director Minoru Ota and Producer Satori Senami.”
AnimEigo Industry Panel
Where: 409AB
When: 10:30-11:20 a.m.
Description: “New release news and announcements from AnimEigo, the oldest anime label in North America, and parent company MediaOCD.”
Spike Chunsoft, Inc. Official Panel 2026
Where: JW Diamond
When: 10:30-11:50 a.m.
Description: “Come celebrate Danganronpa‘s 15th anniversary & pre-launch of STEINS;GATE RE:BOOT! Danganronpa Producer Shohei Sakakibara, Kazutaka Kodaka and English VAs join us as guests. There will be STEINS;GATE quiz, live VA performance, giveaways and more! There might be a sneak peek of Danganronpa 2×2…!?”
Yen Press Industry Panel
Where: 511ABC
When: 11:30 a.m.-12:20 p.m.
Description: “For over a decade, Yen Press has been one of the biggest publishers of manga, releasing the likes of Black Butler, Fruits Basket and Toilet-bound Hanako-kun. Yen Press has also given a home to fan favorite categories such as light novels, audiobooks and manhwa. Join us for new announcements and Q&A!”
Sports Anime Festival!!!
Where: 408AB
When: 11:30 a.m.-12:20 p.m.
Description: “Are you a fan of Haikyuu!!, Kuroko no Basket, BLUE LOCK, Yuri on Ice, SK8, or just sports anime in general? If so, this is the panel you’ve been waiting for! Join a talented cast of English voice actors from your favorite sports anime. Participate in exciting games like Jeopardy and more, all centered around the world of sports anime!!!”
After Class Hijinks with Suzuki and Tani of You and I Are Polar Opposites
Where: Peacock Theater
When: 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m.
Description: “Suzuki and Tani are calling, are you ready to go? Join Sayumi Suzushiro and Shogo Sakata for one final hangout before class is back in session as they treat us to the first episode premiere of Season 2, live dub some of your favorite scenes, reminisce about their favorite memories from the series and share some behind-the-scenes stories.”
Shonen Jump Anime KILL BLUE -Special Homeroom-
Where: JW Platinum
When: 12:00-12:50 p.m.
Description: “Class is in session! As Shonen Jump’s breakout hit KILL BLUE reaches its Season 1 finale, join creator Tadatoshi Fujimaki (Kuroko’s Basketball) and the production team for a special homeroom featuring behind-the-scenes insights, live drawing, a KILL BLUE pop quiz, and exclusive giveaways.”
Yoshitaka Amano: Art & Entertainment — A New Creative Challenge
Where: Petree Hall
When: 12:00-12:50 p.m.
Description: “Experience the latest updates on Yoshitaka Amano’s new anime project, ZAN, including an exclusive trailer screening, introductions to the legendary creative team, and previews of upcoming projects from Yoshitaka Amano’s newly launched company.”
Behind the Scenes of the Fate/strange Fake English Dub
Where: 403AB
When: 12:00-1:20 p.m.
Description: “Join the English dub cast and staff for a delightful peek into the dub production of this winter’s new anime hit, Fate/strange Fake!”
Sound! Euphonium The Final Movie Part 1 & Part 2 – Kyoto Animation Chief Director Tatsuya Ishihara Special Panel & Exclusive Premiere Footage
Where: JW Diamond
When: 12:30-1:20 p.m.
Description: “Join Kyoto Animation Chief Director Tatsuya Ishihara and Producer Satori Senami for a special Sound! Euphonium panel. Be the first in the world to see newly revealed footage and hear directly from the creators behind Kumiko’s final chapter.”
STEEL BALL RUN JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure Special Panel featuring Yugo Kanno
Where: Main Events (Crypto.com Arena)
When: 12:30-1:50 p.m.
Description: “Celebrate the highly anticipated STEEL BALL RUN JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure with a special panel featuring acclaimed composer Yugo Kanno, Daman Mills and Kaiji Tang! Experience a special live performance, plus a conversation with the guests you won’t want to miss.”
Kodansha Presents: Blue Lock Creators Muneyuki Kaneshiro and Yusuke Nomura
Where: 408AB
When: 1:00-1:50 p.m.
Description: “Kodansha presents a conversation with Muneyuki Kaneshiro & Yusuke Nomura — the egoist creators behind the wildly popular manga and anime, Blue Lock. Enter this panel as lumps of talent to be shaped by Kaneshiro & Nomura’s discussion about their process, highs & lows of manga serialization, & more!”
Crunchyroll Showcase
Where: Peacock Theater
When: 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Description: “Whether you’re a lifelong anime fan or just getting started, Crunchyroll brings you closer to the action with sneak peeks, studio spotlights, announcements, and surprises along the way.”
What’s New From Inklore
Where: 404AB
When: 2:45-3:35 p.m.
Description: “Join the team from Inklore and discover your next obsession at this sneak peek at what’s new and upcoming on our list of best-in-class manga, manhwa, and global pop comics!”
KAIJU GIRL CARAMELISE: The Kaiju-Sized?! North American Premiere
Where: 403AB
When: 2:45-3:35 p.m.
Description: “High school girl × Kaiju?! This over-the-top romantic comedy is finally stomping its way into AX! Join us for a special screening of Ep 1 and the North American Premiere of Ep 2. Featuring exclusive giveaways and a Kaiju-sized stage packed with laughs and love!”
[U.S. PREMIERE] The Jaadugar: A Witch in Mongolia with Science SARU
Where: JW Diamond
When: 2:45-4:05 p.m.
Description: “Join us for the grand U.S. premiere of Episodes 1 and 2, featuring special guests Executive Director Naoko Yamada, Director Abel Góngora (Science SARU), and more! Be the first to learn exclusive behind-the-scenes details exploring the series’ world, themes, and unique setting.”
Sonic the Hedgehog Animated Shorts: A Frame-by-Frame Retrospective
Where: Petree Hall
When: 3:00-3:50 p.m.
Description: “Peek into the world of SEGA’s short-form animation as we celebrate 35 years of Sonic the Hedgehog. Join Sonic Creative Director Takashi Iizuka, Austin Keys, and Jasmin Hernandez, with special guests Tyson Hesse, Evan Stanley, and Alan Wan to discuss their creative processes.”
Bandai Namco Filmworks Industry Panel
Where: 408AB
When: 3:00-3:50 p.m.
Description: “Come join us as we talk about what’s new and upcoming at Bandai Namco Filmworks with appearances from special guests!”
A-1 Pictures Industry Panel
Where: JW Platinum
When: 3:00-4:20 p.m.
Description: “A-1 Pictures, the studio behind hits like Fate/strange Fake, MASHLE: MAGIC AND MUSCLES, and Sword Art Online, invites you to be among the first to watch their new series coming this summer, GROW UP SHOW -Sunflower Circus-! Plus, learn about the studio’s other upcoming titles directly from the staff!”
HATSUNE MIKU: COLORFUL STAGE! Fan Meeting at Anime Expo 2026
Where: Main Events (Crypto.com Arena)
When: 3:00-4:20 p.m.
Description: “The hit rhythm game HATSUNE MIKU: COLORFUL STAGE! comes to Anime Expo for a special one-day fan meeting! Featuring Daisuke Hirose (voice of Tsukasa Tenma) and Machico (voice of Nene Kusanagi). Enjoy talk shows, music, and more. Don’t miss it!”
Witch Hat Atelier: A Magical Chat with the Cast and Creator
Where: Peacock Theater
When: 3:15-4:15 p.m.
Description: “Step into the atelier! Let’s take a magical look at Witch Hat Atelier behind-the-scenes with special guests: Kamome Shirahama (Manga Creator), Rena Motomura (Voice of Coco), and Natsuki Hanae (Voice of Qifrey). Learn what it takes to become a master witch in this exciting discussion!”
Studio KAI Anime Sentenced to Be a Hero Creator Talk Show
Where: 403AB
When: 4:15-5:05 p.m.
Description: “Join us for a special behind-the-scenes discussion with Studio KAI, the creators of Sentenced to Be a Hero! Discover the passion and secrets behind the creation of the action-driven stories, offering fresh perspectives. Don’t miss out!”
To You in the Beyond: World Premiere & Special Guest Panel featuring Anna Nagase
Where: 408AB
When: 4:30-7:00 p.m.
Description: “Be among the first to experience the world premiere of To You in the Beyond, an animated film based on a novel by Akiko Abe, winner of the 2025 Japan Booksellers’ Award for Cafune. The screening is followed by a talk with director Junichi Wada, voice actor Anna Nagase, and producer Koichiro Mukai.”
Kagurabachi Anime World Tour – World Premiere Screening at Anime Expo
Where: JW Diamond
When: 4:45-6:05 p.m.
Description: Weekly Shonen Jump’s Kagurabachi is getting a TV anime adaptation! Join us for the world premiere screening of the first 20 minutes of Episode 1 followed by a special panel discussion with the staff and cast. They will be sharing their passion for the series and taking you behind the scenes!
KADOKAWA Anime 10th Anniversary Panel: Re:ZERO, KONOSUBA, and Bungo Stray Dogs Producers Roundtable & Re:ZERO S4 The Recapture Arc Ep 1 Premiere! (Supported by Crunchyroll)
Where: JW Platinum
When: 5:00-6:50 p.m.
Description: “Don’t miss the exclusive Re:ZERO S4 The Recapture Arc Ep 1 Premiere! Celebrate 10 years of KADOKAWA Anime with the producers of Re:ZERO, KONOSUBA, and Bungo Stray Dogs. Enjoy behind-the-scenes stories and announcements for the next decade. Supported by Crunchyroll.”
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle Celebration
Where: Peacock Theater
When: 5:00-6:00 p.m.
Description: “Celebrate the world of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle at Anime Expo 2026 on July 3 at the Peacock Theater! Join us for a special event looking back on the theatrical release of Infinity Castle, featuring guests Natsuki Hanae (Japanese voice of Tanjiro Kamado), Takahiro Sakurai (Japanese voice of Giyu Tomioka), and making her Anime Expo debut, Saori Hayami (Japanese voice of Shinobu Kocho). Fans of studio ufotable won’t want to miss a special video of Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle! Also, fans won’t want to miss seeing the latest footage from ufotable’s newest film project!”
Dark Horse Manga
Where: 411
When: 5:15-6:05 p.m.
Description: “Dark Horse Manga returns to Anime Expo! Join us as we celebrate our 40th anniversary—38 of those spent publishing manga! Also, learn about the past, present & future of Dark Horse Manga—including multiple exciting new manga license announcements! Panel attendees will also receive a free poster, and have the opportunity to score some manga prizes!”
Blue Box Official Panel
Where: 403AB
When: 5:45-6:35 p.m.
Description: “Don’t miss the official Blue Box panel with special guests Yoshino Aoyama (Japanese voice of Yumeka) and Zach Aguilar (English voice of Taiki)! Relive the most unforgettable moments from Season 1, get the latest information on Season 2, and score exclusive giveaways!”
BLACK TORCH Anime Premiere Panel
Where: JW Diamond
When: 6:45-7:35 p.m.
Description: “Be the first to watch the BLACK TORCH Episode 1 subbed premiere presented by VIZ & Crunchyroll! Join special guests AJ Beckles (Jiro) and Keith Silverstein (Rago) for an exclusive screening, behind-the-scenes insights, and exciting giveaways as this supernatural action series ignites the stage.”
Junji Ito Masterpiece Collection presented by Global Stage Hollywood & TV Tokyo
Where: 411
When: 6:45-8:05 p.m.
Description: “Junji Ito Masterpieces — A horror anthology from TV Tokyo, premiering July 2026. 17 dark masterpieces across 12 episodes. Presented by Global Stage Hollywood Film Festival. Panel & screening at Anime Expo.”
Daemons of the Shadow Realm Presented by Crunchyroll
Where: Peacock Theater
When: 6:45-7:45 p.m.
Description: “Join the Japanese voices of Yuru (Kensho Ono) and Asa (Yume Miyamoto), as they talk about their experiences with Daemons of the Shadow Realm, the latest anime based on the original story by the creator of Fullmetal Alchemist Hiromu Arakawa. Don’t miss the chance to hear their thoughts behind from the recent season, and participate in an exclusive live dubbing for the Anime Expo audience!”
Cyberpunk: Edgerunners 2 — Welcome Back to Night City! (18+)
Where: Main Events (Crypto.com Arena)
When: 7:30-8:50 p.m.
Description: “Get ready for Cyberpunk: Edgerunners 2! This brand-new, standalone story will show an even more brutal, raw, and painfully human side of Night City, so join us live to hear directly from voice actors and creators of the series, and brace yourself for what’s to come.”
Bring It On BAKI-DOU! Experience the Showdown with the BAKI-DOU Team
Where: 408AB
When: 8:00-8:50 p.m.
Description: “Feel the power of BAKI-DOU: The Invincible Samurai in real life with the team behind the anime. Explore how BAKI-DOU was adapted into anime and what to expect from the new season’s intense fight scenes. Featuring special guests and a fun challenge, be prepared for an action-packed experience!”
The Apothecary Diaries Presented by Crunchyroll & NTV
Where: Peacock Theater
When: 8:30-9:30 p.m.
Description: “Join Crunchyroll and NTV as they bring out some special guests Aoi Yuki and Takeo Otsuka from Japan to talk about the hit anime series, The Apothecary Diaries! Hear directly from the talent and more!”
BLEACH: Thousand-Year Blood War – The Calamity Stage
Where: Main Events (Crypto.com Arena)
When: 10:00-10:50 a.m.
Description: “The final battle begins! Celebrate BLEACH: Thousand-Year Blood War – The Calamity with special guests Masakazu Morita and Johnny Yong Bosch (Ichigo Kurosaki). Join VIZ for a discussion with the guests, door giveaways, and advanced screening of the subbed Episode 1 of the Final Part!”
Akane-banashi Special Panel with Anna Nagase and Abby Trott, Presented by TV Asahi
Where: 408AB
When: 10:00-10:50 a.m.
Description: “Don’t miss this exclusive Akane-banashi panel right after the anime’s final episode, featuring Anna Nagase and Abby Trott—the Japanese & English voices of Akane—plus the producer! Enjoy exclusive content, behind-the-scenes stories, character insights, and exclusive giveaways!”
Arc System Works – Developer Table Talk
Where: 511ABC
When: 10:00-10:50 a.m.
Description: “Get hyped with Arc System Works! Devs share updates, upcoming releases, creative insights, and gameplay from multiple titles, including Guilty Gear -Strive-. Free swag while supplies last!”
Crunchyroll Presents: I Became a Legend after My 10 Year-Long Last Stand and Bananya 10th Anniversary Early Screenings
Where: JW Platinum
When: 10:00-10:50 a.m.
Description: “It’s been 10 years for both of these two shows! Luck is a war veteran who held the line for 10 years, and the only thing he kills now is time… and Bananya is a silly cat. Join us for two early screenings of I Became a Legend after My 10 Year-Long Last Stand and Bananya 10th Anniversary! I Became a Legend after My 10 Year-Long Last Stand – Episode 1-2. Bananya 10th Anniversary – Episode 1.”
A Returner’s Magic Should Be Special Season 2 Premiere Screening featuring Sayumi Suzushiro
Where: Peacock Theater
When: 10:00-11:00 a.m.
Description: “Get ready to return to the Shadow World with Crunchyroll at the Anime Expo two-episode premiere screening of A Returner’s Magic Should Be Special Season 2. Featuring a special guest appearance by Sayumi Suzushiro, this screening offers fans an early look at the next chapter of the fantasy adventure.”
Though I Am an Inept Villainess: U.S. premiere with cast Hosted by TOHO animation
Where: 403AB
When: 10:00-11:20 a.m.
Description: “When the heroine and the villainess switch places, the unlikely pair must work together to survive. TOHO animation (The Apothecary Diaries, My Hero Academia) presents the North American premiere of episodes 1-2 of Though I Am an Inept Villainess with special guests Hana Hishikawa & Makoto Furukawa!”
ATLUS Presents: Persona 4 Revival Panel
Where: Petree Hall
When: 11:30 a.m.-12:20 p.m.
Description: “Join ATLUS developers Kazuhisa Wada, Shigenori Soejima, Yohsuke Uda, and Yoshiyuki Asai for a special look at Persona 4 Revival. In this panel, the team behind the beloved franchise will share never-before-seen content and information live at Anime Expo. Be sure to tune in or join us in person!”
15 Years and Beyond: Warner Bros. Japan Anime Production 15th Anniversary Panel with Upcoming Titles!
Where: 408AB
When: 11:30 a.m.-12:20 p.m.
Description: “Celebrate 15 years of Warner Bros. Japan Anime Production with STEEL BALL RUN JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, Record of Ragnarok III, FIST OF THE NORTH STAR: HOKUTO NO KEN, Devils’ Crest, BLADE & BASTARD, special guests Laura Post & Damien Haas, latest updates, special giveaways, and more!”
Go 100%! Mob Psycho 100 10th Anniversary Celebration
Where: Peacock Theater
When: 11:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m.
Description: “Go 100% with Crunchyroll, Setsu Ito (Mob), Takahiro Sakurai (Reigen) and Yuzuru Tachikawa (Mob Psycho 100 Director) and celebrate the 10 year anniversary of Mob Psycho 100!”
Crunchyroll Presents: The Villager of Level 999 Early Screenings
Where: JW Platinum
When: 12:00-12:50 p.m.
Description: “Monsters did not always exist in the island country of Hexaldoria, once known as Japan. With their arrival, eighty percent of the world is now too dangerous for people to live in. With the monsters’ arrival, the world bestowed “”Classes”” upon its people. Despite being the weakest class, Kouji Kagami is determined to make money and soon becomes LEVEL 999. With his enormous strength, things are about to change! Join us for an early screening of The Villager of Level 999! The Villager of Level 999 – Episode 1-2.”
Production I.G x WIT STUDIO Industry Panel 2026
Where: Main Events (Crypto.com Arena)
When: 12:00-1:20 p.m.
Description: “Hosted by Maki Terashima-Furuta, the Production I.G and WIT STUDIO joint panel returns to AX once again! In addition to Founders Mitsuhisa Ishikawa and George Wada, this year features an incredible lineup with directors Kenji Kamiyama, Tetsuro Araki, and Shunsuke Tada. These three leading directors will gather to discuss everything from behind-the-scenes stories to the future of animation. The panel will also feature an ‘Interactive Cult Quiz’ where you can win autographed items directly from the directors, and a ‘Q&A session’ with the creators! July 4th at 12 PM, at the Crypto.com Arena. Don’t miss this historic moment in anime!”
LIAR GAME and summer anime sneak peek presented by REMOW
Where: 403AB
When: 12:00-1:20 p.m.
Description: “REMOW returns to Anime Expo 2026—welcome to the game. Step into LIAR GAME with special guests, exclusive reveals, and a live game experience. Plus, sneak peeks of upcoming anime, including Livid Lady’s Guide to Getting Even. Free giveaways for all attendees!”
Magic Knight Rayearth World Premiere
Where: JW Diamond
When: 12:00-1:20 p.m.
Description: “Join special guests Rie Takahashi (Fuu Hououji) and Saori Hayami (Emeraude) for the world premiere of the first two episodes of the upcoming Magic Knight Rayearth anime, and be among the first to hear exciting new updates!”
WORLD PREMIERE: From Old Country Bumpkin to Master Swordsman & Beyond presented by NBCUniversal Entertainment Japan
Where: 409AB
When: 12:00-1:20 p.m.
Description: “Experience the World Premiere of From Old Country Bumpkin to Master Swordsman S2 with Director Akio Kazumi! Plus big reveals for Suikoden: The Anime, A Certain Dark Item, Mission: Yozakura Family S2, and score exclusive limited-edition giveaways!”
Black Clover Season 2 Premiere Panel with Cast and Staff
Where: Peacock Theater
When: 1:30-2:30 p.m.
Description: “Join Gakuto Kajiwara (Voice of Asta) and Ayataka Tanemura (Director) for the premiere of the first episode of Black Clover Season 2! Be among the first to witness the continuing saga of Asta’s journey to become the Wizard King!”
Exclusive First Look: Norihiro Naganuma (The Apothecary Diaries) Unveils His New Action-Packed Original Series – Avex Pictures Panel
Where: 404AB
When: 1:30-2:20 p.m.
Description: “Come join us at AX for the first ever reveal of Director Norihiro Naganuma’s (Director of The Apothecary Diaries) brand new series! There will be a panel discussion, promotional videos and visuals for this completely original, action-packed series along with a Q&A with the director himself!”
Studio TRIGGER Panel 2026
Where: The Novo
When: 2:00-2:50 p.m.
Description: “Studio TRIGGER is BACK at AX 2026! Join the director and scriptwriter of Cyberpunk: Edgerunners 2 for behind-the-scenes insights into the upcoming anime! We’ll also share the latest updates on our current projects… and unveil our next flagship title!”
Tokyo Revengers: War of the Three Titans Arc – 3-Star Cast Panel & Special Recap Video
Where: JW Platinum
When: 2:15-3:05 p.m.
Description: “The final revenge begins at Anime Expo! Join Yuki Shin (TAKE-MITCHY), Yuu Hayashi (Mikey), and Masaya Fukunishi (Draken) for a Tokyo Revengers panel featuring an exclusive recap video and behind-the-scenes stories from the cast. Grab a special giveaway while supplies last!”
My Hero Academia 10th Anniversary Panel Hosted by TOHO animation
Where: Main Events (Crypto.com Arena)
When: 2:30-3:20 p.m.
Description: “My Hero Academia hits its 10th anniversary! Join Daiki Yamashita (Deku) and Koki Uchiyama (Shigaraki) to celebrate this incredible milestone. Don’t miss the world premiere of the short clip, ‘I am a hero too!’ Go beyond, Plus Ultra!”
Detective Conan: The Million-Dollar Pentagram U.S. Premiere Screening
Where: 403AB
When: 2:45-4:50 p.m.
Description: “Kid the Phantom Thief makes his grand debut at AX! Don’t miss the U.S. premiere of Detective Conan: The Million-Dollar Pentagram earning $150+ Million worldwide. Witness the dazzling battle of blades and illusions that thrilled fandom!”
THE GHOST IN THE SHELL × Science SARU: Special Panel ＆ Premiere
Where: JW Diamond
When: 2:45-4:05 p.m.
Description: “The legendary cyberpunk series THE GHOST IN THE SHELL returns in a bold new form, brought to life by animation studio Science SARU. We present the U.S. premiere screening from the new series. Staff members will also share insights into the concept, and visual world behind the new series.”
That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Special Panel
Where: Petree Hall
When: 3:00-3:50 p.m.
Description: “That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime Season 4 is underway! Miho Okasaki (Voice of Rimuru) and Megumi Toyoguchi (Voice of Raphael) from Slime are coming to Anime Expo 2026!”
Thunder 3 Premiere Panel with Production Staff
Where: 408AB
When: 3:15-4:35 p.m.
Description: “Join us for the premiere screening of Thunder 3 episodes 1-2! The production staff takes the stage to share behind-the-scenes stories, insights into the creative details poured into the animation, series highlights, and insider moments found only at Anime Expo!”
CloverWorks Industry Panel
Where: JW Platinum
When: 3:45-5:05 p.m.
Description: “The studio behind SPY x FAMILY, BOCCHI THE ROCK!, My Dress-Up Darling, The Fragrant Flower Blooms with Dignity, and many more, presents the CloverWorks Industry Panel! Don’t miss the exclusive info and announcements from special guests visiting Anime Expo from CloverWorks!”
FGO 9th Anniversary x TYPE-MOON Projects
Where: Petree Hall
When: 4:30-5:50 p.m.
Description: “It’s Fate/Grand Order’s 9th anniversary celebration! Join Aniplex of America’s Albert Kao and special guests Ayako Kawasumi (Altria Pendragon and Anne Bonny) and Kana Ueda (Ishtar and Ereshkigal) to discuss FGO’s past, present, and future along with other TYPE-MOON projects!”
MARRIAGETOXIN Road to the Best Marriage! at Anime Expo
Where: JW Diamond
When: 4:45-5:35 p.m.
Description: “Come and join a special panel discussion featuring the main staff and cast of MARRIAGETOXIN. Join us as we dive deep into all the work and details that make this series so charming!”
HIDIVE Presents The Forsaken Saintess and Her Foodie Road Trip in Another World North American Premiere & Q&A
Where: 511ABC
When: 4:45-5:35 p.m.
Description: “Pitch a tent with HIDIVE for this simulcast premiere where being isekai’d meets gourmet, campfire cooking! Plus, savor a Q&A with special guest director Atsushi Nigorikawa!”
That time I entered an all boys school and it got complicated: Hana-Kimi panel presented by Crunchyroll
Where: Peacock Theater
When: 5:00-6:00 p.m.
Description: “Step into the beloved world of Hana-Kimi, where romance and outrageous school antics take center stage! Join special guests Aya Yamane, Japanese voice of Mizuki, and Kikunosuke Toya, Japanese voice of Nakatsu, for a lively discussion celebrating this iconic story of disguise, friendship, and first love. Hear behind-the-scenes insights, explore what makes the characters so enduring, and even see iconic scenes performed live!”
VIZ Anime Panel
Where: 408AB
When: 5:15-6:05 p.m.
Description: “VIZ presents a powerhouse anime showcase with special guests Masakazu Morita and Johnny Yong Bosch (BLEACH: Thousand-Year Blood War), AJ Beckles and Keith Silverstein (BLACK TORCH), sharing behind-the-scenes stories. Fans won’t want to miss exciting exclusive announcements revealed live!”
Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End – Special Event Hosted by TOHO animation
Where: JW Platinum
When: 6:00-6:50 p.m.
Description: “Join the Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End panel! Director Tomoya Kitagawa, Supporting Director Keiichiro Saito, and Animation Producer Yuichiro Fukushi look back at Season 2 and discuss the upcoming Season 3, with a live drawing by Character Designer Keisuke Kojima. See what’s next for Frieren!”
Crunchyroll Presents: Firefly Wedding and The Ogre’s Bride (18+)
Where: JW Diamond
When: 6:30-7:20 p.m.
Description: “Firefly Wedding: On the surface, Satoko has it all—she’s beautiful, the daughter of a nobleman, and at a prime age for marriage. Unfortunately, she is also quite ill and only has a short time left to live. Before she can secure a marriage that will redeem her worth in her family’s eyes, she finds herself the target of the mysterious assassin Shinpei, and her plans are put in jeopardy. In order to save herself, she makes a desperate proposal—of marriage! When it comes to love, however, Shinpei takes ‘until death do we part’ seriously. The Ogre’s Bride: The ayakashi and humans coexist in harmony. The ayakashi, having superior abilities and beautiful appearances, sometimes find their partner among human women, making them their ‘bride’. The bride, in exchange for bringing prosperity, receives absolute love from the ayakashi. Yuzu is constantly compared to her sister, a bride of a demon fox, and is resented by her family every day. One day, when Yuzu just couldn’t take things anymore, a man appeared before her on a bridge. This man is the most beautiful man Yuzu has ever seen… and he’s calling her his wife?! The most powerful, ‘cold-hearted’ ayakashi is pouring his heart out for Yuzu?! Join us for two early screenings of Firefly Wedding and The Ogre’s Bride!”
The Oblivious Saint Can’t Contain Her Power Special Premiere
Where: Peacock Theater
When: 6:45-7:45 p.m.
Description: “Don’t miss your chance to be among the first to watch the premiere of the second episode of The Oblivious Saint Can’t Contain Her Power! Featuring special guests from Japan, cast members Rie Takahashi and Makoto Furukawa share their thoughts on the new anime series and invite you to enjoy the premiere!”
Reborn as a Space Mercenary: I Woke Up Piloting the Strongest Starship! Premiere Screening featuring Makoto Furukawa
Where: Peacock Theater
When: 8:30-9:30 p.m.
Description: “When Satou Takahiro is swept away from his ordinary life into the world of his favorite video game, a universe of space battles and danger awaits. Don’t miss Crunchyroll’s Anime Expo two-episode premiere of Reborn as a Space Mercenary: I Woke Up Piloting the Strongest Starship!, featuring a special guest appearance by Makoto Furukawa (Voice of Hiro / Satou Takahiro).”
Anime Expo 2026 Masquerade (Separately Ticketed Event)
Where: Main Events (Crypto.com Arena)
When: 8:30-11:30 p.m.
Description: “The AX Masquerade is Anime Expo’s longest-running and most prestigious cosplay competition, where talented cosplayers will now take the Main Events stage at Crypto.com Arena to compete for incredible prizes and the coveted Best in Show title.”
JUJUTSU KAISEN: Celebrating 5 Years of Curses with Cast Hosted by TOHO animation
Where: Main Events (Crypto.com Arena)
When: 10:00-10:50 a.m.
Description: “JUJUTSU KAISEN 5th Anniversary Panel – celebrating five thrilling years of this blockbuster anime! Reflect on its journey so far, including Season 3, key battles, story milestones, and character moments. Hear behind-the-scenes stories and enjoy fan experiences you won’t want to miss!
GKIDS Industry Panel
Where: 404AB
When: 12:15-1:05 p.m.
Description: “From the team that brings you films from celebrated filmmakers like Mamoru Hosoda, Masaaki Yuasa, and Studio Ghibli, comes the GKIDS Industry Panel! Join us for an inside scoop on what it takes to release the best films and series from around the world, and a sneak peek at what’s to come!”
Closing Ceremony
Where: Main Events (Crypto.com Arena)
When: 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Description: “As Anime Expo 2026 concludes, the Closing Ceremony will give AX attendees the chance to reflect and wrap up their experiences with various performances and closing traditions.”
Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.