Crunchyroll’s Dominance may Hurt Anime Industry

Anime’s global boom is being undermined by the consolidation of streaming power, particularly with Crunchyroll’s dominance following its merger with Funimation. Once, multiple platforms competed for licenses, which boosted fees and gave Japanese studios a greater level of leverage. Now, with Crunchyroll as the primary overseas buyer and Netflix selectively picking titles, competition has cooled, reducing payouts and forcing studios to plan exit strategies early. This imbalance discourages risk-taking, sidelines niche genres such as boys’ love, and prompts creators to pursue safer, more mainstream projects. While fans may enjoy simplified access, exclusivity shrinks cultural reach and lowers budgets. Industry voices warn that without broader competition and variety, the anime ecosystem risks losing diversity, innovation, and long-term vitality despite strong international demand.

ScreenRant, Hannah Diffey – The Anime Streaming Wars Are Hurting the Industry More Than Helping It – 25th August 2025