JJK And MHA Have Ended, But The Next Big Hit Shonen Is Here

Currently, the most popular action-adventure anime aimed at young audiences include *Jujutsu Kaisen*, *Demon Slayer*, and *My Hero Academia*. These shows have become major hits, standing alongside the classics like *One Piece*, *Naruto*, and *Bleach* – often referred to as the ‘Big Three’.

The popular series often referred to as the “New Big Three” are nearing their endings, though the timing of their anime adaptations and manga conclusions differ slightly. As these stories wrap up, it’s evident that a new hit manga is poised to become the next big phenomenon in today’s streaming world.

The Popularization Of the Shōnen Genre

Though ‘shōnen’ technically refers to a young male audience, it’s become widely associated with exciting anime and manga focused on action, adventure, and young characters. These stories often emphasize personal growth, overcoming obstacles, and the importance of friendship, leading people to describe a particular *style* of anime as ‘shōnen.’ Iconic series like *Dragon Ball Z* and Eiichiro Oda’s *One Piece* have always been central to its popularity.

The term ‘shōnen’ became popular among anime fans, starting with shows like *Dragon Ball Z*. *One Piece*, *Naruto*, and *Bleach* then defined the genre in the early 2000s. What began as a popular style in Japan quickly gained fans around the world. For many Western viewers, *Dragon Ball Z* wasn’t just an introduction to the *Dragon Ball* series, but to shōnen anime in general. *Naruto* had a similar effect, becoming another key series for international audiences. Both *Dragon Ball Z* and *Naruto* are now considered classics of the genre, known for their compelling stories built around themes of friendship, action, and never giving up. These shows were dubbed into many languages and inspired a whole generation of fans, proving their widespread appeal.

JJK And Demon Slayer And The New Wave Of Shōnen

Shonen’s Expanding Audience And Ever-growing Reach

Most people agree that *My Hero Academia*, *Demon Slayer*, and *Jujutsu Kaisen* became incredibly popular – often called the “New Big Three” – thanks to the rise of online streaming. Platforms like Crunchyroll, Funimation, and Netflix allowed fans around the world to watch these shows, and they didn’t have to wait for English dubs. Even more importantly, streaming made these series widely available, and social media helped spread the word and build excitement.

Anime is now a truly global phenomenon, with fans around the world watching episodes on the same day they premiere in Japan. The shōnen genre, in particular, has broadened its appeal, attracting older viewers with its increasingly mature themes of overcoming challenges and finding oneself. As a result, shōnen has moved beyond being just for young audiences and become a popular form of entertainment for people of all ages worldwide.

Where Do Demon Slayer, My Hero Academia And JJK Stand?

The popular anime series *Demon Slayer* is nearing its end and will conclude with a set of three movies. Meanwhile, another hit anime, *Jujutsu Kaisen*, finished its original manga series on September 29, 2024, with the release of chapter 271. The story will continue with a sequel manga called *Jujutsu Kaisen Modulo*, with the second chapter planned for release on September 14, 2025.

Fans of anime have exciting news regarding two popular series. *Jujutsu Kaisen* will return for a third season in January 2026, putting an end to months of guessing about its release date. *My Hero Academia*, after its manga finished its ten-year run on August 5th, 2024, with chapter 430, is also nearing the end of its anime adaptation. The eighth and final season will premiere on October 4th, 2025.

The Next Big Shōnen Hit After JJK And Demon Slayer

Akane-Banashi is a promising new shōnen manga that stands out from the crowd by bringing a traditional Japanese art form to life. Created by Yuki Suenaga and Takamasa Moue, the series-now spanning 17 volumes-centers on Akane Osaki, a teen whose father used to be a professional storyteller. Both share a love for Rakugo, a type of Japanese comedic storytelling, and Akane is determined to become a successful Rakugo performer herself.

From the very beginning, it’s obvious that Akane, the main character, will have to overcome huge challenges, establishing *Akane-Banashi* as a promising new shōnen manga. Though some believe it doesn’t get enough attention, the manga is steadily gaining popularity.

Akane-Banashi’s official description reads:

I’ve always been completely mesmerized by rakugo, especially watching my dad, Shinta Arakawa, perform. He’s such an incredible storyteller! I remember being there when he had this huge performance – it was a really important one for him, a chance to finally become a fully recognized performer – and something shocking happened that day. It totally changed everything.

Six years later, Akane is now a high school student

striving to become a “shinuchi,” the highest rank in the world of rakugo.

Akane-Banashi Is A Popular Shōnen Manga That Preserves An Ancient Art

What’s truly impressive about *Akane-Banashi* is its continued success as a popular shōnen manga, even though it breaks from many of the genre’s usual conventions. Unlike most shōnen stories, it doesn’t rely heavily on action and adventure.

Even though *Akane-Banashi* doesn’t rely on typical action and adventure, it still captures the spirit of classic shōnen stories. What really sets it apart is its focus on Rakugo, a traditional Japanese storytelling art that’s been losing popularity. While not completely forgotten, Rakugo needs a boost, and *Akane-Banashi* bravely puts it center stage, potentially revitalizing the art form. This show proves that shōnen stories don’t *need* to be about fighting to be successful. Rakugo is performed by a single storyteller who sits and uses only a fan and a small towel as props. The storyteller, known as a Rakugoka, brings multiple characters to life through voice changes, facial expressions, and body language, creating a captivating and often humorous performance.

Akane’s father and his coworkers lost their jobs when she was a child, and this fuels her ambition. She’s determined to both master her skill and clear her father’s name. *Akane-Banashi* beautifully demonstrates how compelling storytelling can introduce a specialized art to a wider audience.

Akane-Banashi: More Than Meets The Eye

Despite its cover art suggesting a typical shoujo anime, *Akane-Banashi* is actually a brilliantly crafted shonen story, even without relying on common shonen elements. The series centers on Akane’s unwavering determination to restore her father’s reputation, showcasing her strength and perseverance – qualities found in popular shonen anime like *Jujutsu Kaisen* and *My Hero Academia*.

Akane’s journey is powerfully motivated by a very personal goal. Her story unfolds in a way that consistently engages viewers, following a classic pattern of practice, challenges, and ultimately, performances that feel like intense competitions, even though they aren’t physical fights. She’s a compelling underdog, striving for success in the traditionally male world of Rakugo, and her performances consistently deliver deeply satisfying and emotional moments.

Where To Watch Akane-Banashi?

Although *Akane-Banashi* doesn’t have an anime series yet, one is currently in production and scheduled to air in 2026. The story, as detailed on akane-banashi.com, centers around the competitive world of Rakugo, a traditional Japanese storytelling art. It follows Akane Osaki, voiced by Anna Nagas, as she strives to become a Shinuchi – the highest level a Rakugo performer can reach. Akane deeply admires her father, Shinta, and used to watch his performances from the audience when she was a child.

Ayumu Watanabe, the director known for *Summer Time Rendering*, is also directing *Akana-Banashi*. The rest of the voice cast includes:

Karashi Nerimaya voiced by Takuya Eguchi
Hikaru Koragi voiced by Rie Takahashi.

2025-09-15 06:35