On September 27, anime fans received the heartbreaking news that Sayuri, known for lending her voice to the theme songs of Lycoris Recoil, My Hero Academia, and Erased, had ed away a week earlier. Sayuri died unexpectedly on September 20, at just 28 years old. 2ou71

Unfortunately, in every single medium, there are moments when we must say goodbye to our favorite creators. ittedly, though, no one is ever truly prepared for such sudden farewells — especially when someone as young as Sayuri leaves us. The devastating news was shared by her husband, who, in a heartfelt letter on X, informed millions of fans worldwide who had cherished Sayuri’s voice for years of her ing. This is what happened.

How did Sayuri die? 72uj

According to her husband, Amaarashi, one-half of the J-pop duo Misekai, Sayuri ed away at the age of 28 after battling a chronic illness. “To everyone who has always ed Sayuri, we would like to respectfully inform you of the following: Sayuri ed away on September 20th. She was 28 years old,” the letter on X read.

“Per her family’s wishes, the funeral was held privately, with only family and close friends in attendance,” Amaterashi continued. “We would like to express our sincere gratitude for the kindness shown to Sayuri during her lifetime, and together with everyone, we would like to pray for her soul to rest in peace.” In the announcement, he also requested that the media refrain from interviewing family and friends, out of respect for Sayuri and her loved ones.

Although the letter did not disclose the specific illness that affected Sayuri, fans were aware that she had been struggling with her health for some time — though the severity of her condition was unimaginable. In July, the 28-year-old candidly revealed she had been battling functional dysphonia, per Crunchyroll. It is a rare voice disorder characterized by abnormal vocal function, not caused by structural or neurological damage to the vocal cords. Due to this condition, Sayuri had been on an indefinite hiatus from music.

Sayuri’s career began in 2015 when she held her first concert, “Yoake no Shitaku,” at Tsutaya O-East in Tokyo. Later that year, she released her debut single, “Mikazuki,” which became the ending theme for Rampo Kitan: Game of Laplace. Her success was so immense that her debut single marked the start of her influence in the anime world. Just a year after her debut, in 2016, she performed “Sore wa Chiisana Hikari no Youna,” the ending theme for the anime Erased.

In 2017, Sayuri released her fifth single, “Parallel Line,” which was chosen as the ending theme for both the anime and live-action adaptations of Scum’s Wish. This marked her first Japanese drama ending theme. Her momentum continued as her sixth single, “Tsuki to Hanataba,” became the ending theme for the anime Fate/Extra Last Encore.

Perhaps her two biggest achievements came later. In 2019, her song “The Song of the Voyage” was selected as the ending theme for My Hero Academia season 4, and in 2022, her single “Tower of Flower” became the ending theme for the anime series Lycoris Recoil — a song many fans look back on with nostalgia and love. It was her final single before she released her last album and began her hiatus.

Sayuri is survived by her husband and her family.

Warning: The following article contains spoilers for chapter 430 of My Hero Academia.

For 10 years, fans followed Izuku Midoriya’s story through the pages of Kohei Horikoshi’s magnum opus, My Hero Academia. His work went on to gain worldwide recognition, becoming one of the most influential Shonen manga of current times. As we know, though, all good things must come to an end.

In this series’ case, the end came on Aug. 4, 2024, with the release of chapter 430, aptly titled “My Hero Academia.” It’s set eight years after the story’s main events, giving readers a glimpse of how society has changed after the Final War arc, and of course, what our favorite characters are up to. Unsurprisingly, the former Class A students become accomplished Pro-Heroes, but what about Deku? This has been the protagonist’s goal ever since he was a child and something he spent the majority of his life working toward. So, did Horikoshi do his dream justice?

Is Deku still a hero at the end of My Hero Academia? 4k6v1q

After the Final War, Deku returns to school life, continuing his training to become a Pro-Hero. However, because he gave up his quirk during the fight against Shigaraki, the boy slowly loses One for All’s embers, eventually becoming quirkless again. It’s unclear when the embers extinguish completely, but the last chapter implies it’s sometime around graduation. Deku then goes on to become a teacher at UA High School, inspiring other kids to follow their dreams, as he did. That’s not the end of the story, though.

On the final pages of chapter 430, Deku is surprised by his mentor, Toshinori Yagi (All Might), who has just come back from a trip abroad with a gift. The now-retired hero reveals that Katsuki Bakugo and other Class A alumni have been working to fund a special suit that would enable Deku to be a Pro-Hero without a quirk. Thanks to this gesture, the protagonist returns to active duty, becoming the first quirkless hero in My Hero Academia‘s history.

One could argue that Deku didn’t need this. He has always been a hero at heart, and the point of the story is that anyone can be one, even civilians, by simply doing their part to help others when they can. Still, it’s nice to see Deku ing his friends as a Pro and living out his childhood dream, especially after losing One for All. If anyone deserves this, it’s him.

After a decade of publication, the My Hero Academia manga has reached its conclusion — and fans are having extremely heated reactions to it. This is normal when you’re ionate about a piece of media, but there is space to question how (un)fair some of the hate for the series is.

Despite its massive popularity around the globe, Kohei Horikoshi’s work has always been the target of heavy criticism from folks outside the fandom. Why do people who stand on the sidelines feel entitled to make their voices heard? Beats me. Then, of course, there are always those who actually read the manga and are able to enjoy the series for what it is while recognizing some of its issues. When chapter 430 was released, even the most loyal fans decided to take up arms.

My Hero Academia‘s ending wasn’t perfect, no, but instead of basing their hate on actual problems — such as Deku’s lack of emotional catharsis after the war, or the implications of having characters like Himiko Toga and Tomura Shigaraki punished with death for their crimes — some decided to make up issues instead.

Deku’s impact on society is still felt 8 years after the Final War 442fu

On Reddit, a lot of fans complained about how “unrealistic” Deku’s life post-war is. According to them, retreating into ordinary life as a teacher after saving the world is bananas, as it would only be logical for the main character to be famous after such a feat. The question is: Who says he’s not? While the final chapter focuses on Deku’s reflection on heroism, there is clear evidence that he has gotten his flowers. Dai is starstruck when he meets the protagonist, and as we learn through him, most kids dreamed of becoming like Deku, Bakugo, and Shoto after the war. In one of the s, we also see action figures of the Class A alumni, Deku included, proving that he has gotten recognition for his accomplishments.

One could argue that none of this is enough, but it’s worth ing how Deku’s heroism had long-lasting effects on society at large. Inspired by him, civilians started doing their part to help others and have been taking the necessary steps to build a better society. This kind of impact is far more relevant to the story than fame and glory. Besides, narratively speaking, it makes sense for Deku to end up quirkless and go back to living a normal life. The point of this series is that heroism can be found in everyday gestures made by ordinary people. What better way to convey this message than by focusing on the small ways we can impact others?

It’s normal to be a little sad that Deku lost One for All and gave up on his dream, but seeing him be a superstar would add nothing to the story. In fact, it would be as superficial as the Hero Society we met at the beginning of the series. So if you think the manga is ruined because he isn’t famous or the current number-one hero in Japan, you’re missing the entire point.

Misinformation has done irreparable damage to fan perceptions of My Hero Academia‘s ending 13134

One other big gripe that folks have with My Hero Academia‘s ending is the supposed way Deku is treated by his friends after graduation. I say “supposed” because it’s just one more made-up issue derived from poor translations and the rampant spread of misinformation.

When spoilers for the final chapter made their way online, a fan translation claimed that Deku lost with his friends, leading people to the conclusion that he was abandoned after losing his quirk. If true, this would send the terrible message that he was only loved while he was useful. Fortunately, that’s not at all what happened. Once they graduated and started adult life, it became difficult for the Class A students to meet up regularly due to scheduling conflicts, but there is nothing to suggest that Deku lost with them.

Instead of abandoning the protagonist, his friends spent years funding an extremely expensive suit that would allow him to them as a Pro Hero, even without a quirk. Because at its core, My Hero Academia is about community, hope for the future, and an ordinary boy doing whatever he can to help others. Sadly, some people refuse to read what’s on the page. Well, or they simply chose to make the worst possible interpretations of the material.

Despite being primarily a battle shonen, Kohei Horikoshi’s My Hero Academia drew people in for all sorts of different reasons. Some just enjoyed the fighting, others got deeply interested in the world and its story, and others were mostly here for the character dynamics.

There’s no doubt that this series has some incredibly likable characters, so it makes complete sense for fans to get invested in their relationships and wish to see how they develop. One of the most popular dynamics in My Hero Academia is the friendship between Izuku Midoriya and Ochaco Uraraka, who have consistently ed and encouraged one another since their meeting in the Entrance Exam arc. After a while, it became evident that the girl had a crush on the protagonist, with other Class A students calling her out on it from time to time. It was all good-natured teasing, of course, and during her final confrontation with Himiko Toga, Uraraka itted her feelings out loud for the first time.

Considering this sequence of events, a large portion of My Hero Academia‘s fanbase predicted that Deku and Uraraka would end up together. Now that the manga is over, readers finally have an answer about the nature of these characters’ relationship.

Do Deku and Uraraka become a couple in My Hero Academia? 13b13

Deku and Uraraka don’t end up together in My Hero Academia, because they never become a confirmed couple. While some fans thought that her crush on Deku would lead to a confession and, eventually, a romantic relationship, these characters never discuss her feelings in the manga, and there is no evidence that they get together after the events of the Final War.

Granted, the two have a heartfelt conversation in chapter 429, but it reads more as platonic than romantic. This doesn’t stop some folks from interpreting the material however they want to, though. For example, in the series’ final chapter, we get a of the characters spending time together in the snow, and see that Uraraka added a mask to her hero costume, which some readers take as evidence of an implied relationship. Upon closer inspection, however, fans will be disappointed to notice that Uraraka’s mask is not the same one Deku uses throughout the series.

With no canonical confirmation, it’s impossible to claim that these two end up together. But hey, fans are always free to fill in the blanks however they see fit. Go nuts, folks.

My Hero Academia came to an end after a decade of weekly chapter releases. It was a long and emotional journey for its characters and fans, but undoubtedly a worthy one.

After the conclusion of the longest arc in the series, the Final War arc, Kohei Horikoshi provided readers with a seven-chapter epilogue, which focused on the societal and individual changes brought about by the war. Throughout these chapters, the author concludes several character arcs, reveals what happened to certain villains and heroes, and gives readers a glimpse of what post-war Japan looks like. The epilogue eventually culminated in the release of chapter 430, which officially brought an end to the My Hero Academia manga on Aug. 4.

How does My Hero Academia end? 5n6x3e

Chapter 430 is set in the present day, eight years after the war, and we finally get to see the version of Izuku Midoriya that has been narrating the story. He is now 25 years old and a teacher at U.A. High School, using his spare time to write his story down in a notebook. In a direct parallel to chapter 1, this installment begins with the protagonist talking about how people are not born equal, but instead of seeing it as a cruel fact of nature, he now considers it a reason for individuals to build bridges.

He continues by reflecting on the lesson he learned at 17 — that being a hero isn’t necessarily about having the power to make large-scale changes, it’s simply about caring about other people and reaching out to them. As he narrates, we see a montage of the things that happened in the past eight years, like the publication of Spinner’s book, Shoji’s Peace Prize, Class A’s graduation, and bits of the Pro Heroes’ lives. We also learn that One for All’s embers slowly got weaker, until they disappeared completely, leaving Deku quirkless once again.

Without this power, the protagonist could no longer act officially as a hero, so he now directs his need to help others by guiding younger generations as a teacher. This may not have been his goal, but no matter how much society has changed, there are still children out there who need this guidance. Dai is one such kid, wishing to be a hero despite the odds being stacked against him, much like Deku was at 14. In this chapter, the main character takes on the role of mentor, telling Dai exactly what he needs to hear just like All Might did for him in chapter 1.

My Hero Academia‘s ending showcases Deku’s lasting impact on society 6f2b3s

Fans may have some fair criticisms about My Hero Academia‘s ending, but claiming that nothing has changed in society after the Final War is just wrong. Societal change takes time, but in the eight years since Deku’s victory over All for One, things have gotten better. Inspired by Deku’s determination, civilians have started to contribute to a kinder and safer country by taking it upon themselves to help those in need. This is a stark contrast to the folks introduced at the beginning of the series, who were way too used to standing by as they relied on Pro Heroes to save the day.

Of course, heroes couldn’t be everywhere at once, so it wasn’t uncommon for things to slip between the cracks. Every member of the League of Villains was proof of this, having been abused, neglected, or shunned by a society that took no responsibility for its shortcomings. After the war, however, we see people reach out to one another, as showcased in chapter 429 by the old lady who, although scared, makes up for how she failed Tomura Shigaraki by saving a child in the exact same position.

This collective focus on prevention, coupled with Ochaco Uraraka’s quirk counseling project and Mezo Shoji’s efforts in resolving prejudice-based conflicts, have led to a decline in criminality. It’s also evident that society has expanded its concept of what makes a hero, with other professionals like doctors, inventors, or programmers stepping into the spotlight as well. Essentially, anyone can and should be a hero — in their own way.

What happens to Deku at the end of My Hero Academia? 2j194o

At the very end of chapter 430, it’s revealed that losing his quirk isn’t actually the end of Deku’s dream to be a Pro Hero. As All Might returns from a trip to the U.S., he brings with him a surprise gift for his successor. It’s a new, extremely expensive hero suit, similar in looks to Deku’s old costume, but created specifically to the heroic work of someone without a quirk. It’s a more advanced (and lighter) version of the armored suit All Might used in his last fight against All for One, funded by the Class A alumni and with Katsuki Bakugo at the heart of the project.

This development brings the story full circle, as All Might physically delivers power back to Deku, and Bakugo extends his hand to him for the first time, inviting him to follow his dream. My Hero Academia concludes with Deku ing the former Class A students, all in their new hero costumes and ready to take on a mission. On his way, the protagonist sees the ghost of Shigaraki — an indication that he has not been forgotten by Deku, and also a reminder to keep reaching out to the outcasts of society. Only this can guarantee a brighter future.

Due to its notoriety, you’d be forgiven for thinking My Hero Academia is one of the longest-running manga series in serialization but Kohei Horikoshi’s super-powered epic began in July 2014 and concluded in August 2024. Fans can take comfort in the fact that the anime adaptation is still going strong, but for how much longer? 

As of writing, My Hero Academia is airing its seventh season. The season has covered multiple arcs from the manga, starting with the Stars and Stripes Arc and the U.A. Traitor Arc. Now that the anime has entered the Final War Arc, it doesn’t have much left to adapt, leading fans to wonder whether we’ll even get a season 8.

When will My Hero Academia season 8 come out? 50i6j

Unfortunately, a release date for My Hero Academia season 8 has not been announced. Now that the manga has ended, we know exactly how much of the story is left for the anime to adapt, and, given how few episodes are left, it’s unlikely the anime will end with season 7. 

At the pace the anime has taken so far, season 8 would be significantly shorter than previous seasons. Instead of releasing a smaller season, one final movie would be a great alternative to a traditional season and would finish the series on a high note. Critics of the series often lament it lost its momentum in the latter half of the manga but a cinematic finale could celebrate My Hero Academia’s success and remind viewers why they fell in love with it in the first place. 

When season 8 arrives in whatever form, it will be available on Crunchyroll to stream. Until then, you can finish reading the manga or catch up on current seasons of the anime. 

My Hero Academia’s Final War is full of memorable moments. While this is a remarkable thing from a storytelling perspective, as fans we can’t help but want to forget some of the more harrowing bits.

The confrontation between Bakugo and Shigaraki is one of the toughest to watch. Granted, it’s incredibly cool to see the teen take on such a formidable enemy during the series’ last arc, but it’s also a majorly stress-inducing fight for those who love the character. The U.A. student underwent a lot of personal growth over the course of the story, establishing himself as one of the most beloved My Hero Academia characters, and one of the best-written. Given this, it’s only natural for fans to despair when they see him in harm’s way.

Does Bakugo die in My Hero Academia? 39591q

Bakugo dies in chapter 362 of the manga, adapted on season 7, episode 11 of the anime. After a particularly intense fight against Shigaraki, in which the antagonist mocks him and declares that his corpse will make a lovely present for Deku, Bakugo takes a powerful attack on his chest that causes his heart to burst. As a consequence, he is left lying on the floor covered in blood and with a hole in his chest. The heroes really were onto something with the Coffin in the Sky thing — it’s just that the victim wasn’t who they intended.

In his final moments, Bakugo sees All Might’s vestige, and tells him how he had always wanted him to sign the trading card he had been carrying around since he was a child. This drives home just how desperate the situation is, giving fans the impression that it really is the end of the road for the character.

Does Bakugo come back in My Hero Academia? 5y2g6f

Thankfully, Bakugo’s death in My Hero Academia is only temporary. In a world where unique quirks are everywhere to be found, there was no way the series’ author would let this fan-favorite character stay dead, which is why he sent Edgeshot to the rescue. The Pro-Hero uses his Zenith technique to spread himself into thin threads that enter the student’s body, allowing him to stitch Bakugo’s heart and lungs back together from the inside. Unfortunately, this requires Edgeshot to sacrifice his own body in the process.

After Edgeshot finishes his repairs, a small explosion produced by Bakugo’s quirk helps his heart restart, and in chapter 403, he makes his big comeback to the battlefield. Despite the impromptu surgery, the teen’s body remains damaged, making it extremely painful to move. It’s good enough for him to keep fighting, though, and if there’s one thing Bakugo will always do, it’s that.

There have been some very tragic deaths in My Hero Academia, but Bakugo won’t be ing the other side so soon. The young hero still has an entire life ahead.

The world of anime is ever-expanding, and we must keep up with it. Each year, new series step into the limelight, as older ones come back from the shadows with new seasons or movies to keep the hype going. Needless to say, it works every time.

Regardless of where you are in your anime journey — whether you’ve just finished your fifth series or are starting your 50th — it’s only natural to want to showcase your love for your favorites. For most people, acquiring merchandise is a fundamental part of the fan experience and when it comes to anime, character figures are a must. Of course, there are plenty of other merch options out there, from posters to mugs and t-shirts, but nothing beats the joy of having figures of your most cherished anime characters. There are so many cool ones to choose from, though, that selecting the best becomes an arduous and time-consuming task.

To help you in the quest to find the perfect item for your collection, here are our top picks for the best anime figures for 2024.

13. Mushoku Tensei: Jobless Reincarnation — Roxy Migurd figure 1u1s5r

Jobless Reincarnation is a hit with fans of isekai anime. Its world-building and story are great, but what truly makes it worth your while are characters like Roxy. The talented and wise mage is one of the best characters in the series, making this figure an excellent addition to your merch collection. It depicts Roxy in a flowery dress, posing elegantly on a heart-shaped blue base that matches her hair and outfit. You won’t find a cuter figure if you try.

12. Spy x Family — Anya’s daily life figure collection 44fy

This is a perfect gift for all Spy x Family enthusiasts out there. Each box comes with a random figure of Anya showcasing one of the many expressions we’ve seen her pull in the anime. The collection has six regular figures and one hidden edition, but all of them are colorful, adorable, and high-quality, so you’ll be satisfied no matter which one you get. Well, or you can simply buy the whole set. Why settle for just one?

11. Blue Lock — Yoichi Isagi figure 531v6p

Blue Lock is one of the most popular sports anime in current times, so any fan of the genre would be happy with this figure. It depicts the series’ protagonist in the middle of a soccer match, getting ready to strike the ball while surrounded by his neon green aura. This item is approximately 5.5 inches tall, and perfectly showcases Yoichi Isagi’s determination to fulfill his goal.

10. Kaiju no. 8 — Kafka action figure 2g3l35

If you’re into Kaiju no. 8, this action figure of Kafka in his kaiju form is everything you could ever dream of. Standing at around 7.5 inches, the figure comes with three optional facial expressions, a pair of optional hands, and an optional right arm and leg. This means that you’ll be able to position it in different ways and choose how to best display it. Besides, the figure is a well-detailed and faithful recreation of the character’s anime design — what more could you wish for?

9. Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End — Frieren action figure 621h6j

Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End has become a phenomenon in and outside Japan, praised for its stunning art, animation, and writing. And what better way to celebrate its success than by purchasing a top-tier action figure? While most anime characters get statues, this Frieren figure comes with movable arms and legs, 3 sets of optional facial expressions, and 3 sets of optional hands so you can change up how you display her. It also includes a magical effect stand and the protagonist’s staff for extra pizzazz. All in all, it’s an incredible deal.

8. Oshi no Ko — Ai Hoshino figure 7601x

If you need some sparkle in your life, how about brightening it up with this Ai Hoshino figure? B-Komachi’s lead idol may not be around anymore, but she certainly left her mark on us. She is perhaps the most iconic character of Oshi no Ko, and this item showcases that flawlessly. Colorful and detailed, the 8.3-inch figure sees Ai propped up by two hearts and with a microphone in hand, doing what she did best — performing.

7. Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War — Ichigo Kurosaki figure 203t2x

Whether you’re a longtime Bleach fan or a newbie who got into it thanks to Thousand-Year Blood War, this figure is for you. With precise detail, it depicts Ichigo Kurosaki in his battle-torn Bankai outfit, swinging his sword during the series’ final arc. The figure is around 8.7 inches tall and (much like the anime) has a dark vibe to it, accentuated by the black special effects surrounding the protagonist.

6. That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime — Rimuru Tempest figure 4t3a2

This is easily one of the best Rimuru Tempest figures available. It’s around 9 inches tall and well-detailed, portraying the main character in human form. Rimuru looks very dignified in this figure (as any Demon Lord should), drawing a sword as their hair and coat flow in the wind. Needless to say, it’s a fitting depiction of one of the most powerful characters in anime and a terrific choice for fans of the series.

5. Tanjiro’s Hinokami Kagura figure 254t3q

For Demon Slayer fans, this is a must. Standing at approximately 7.5 inches, the figure depicts the series’ protagonist during battle, surrounded by flame effects to replicate his Hinokami Kagura. No matter what perspective you look at it from, this statue is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and details. Plus, Tanjiro’s pose, flowing haori, and the way the flames follow his katana provide an incredible illusion of movement. Overall, this is exactly the kind of anime figure any collector would be lucky to own.

4. My Hero Academia — Dark Deku figure 5e2373

Izuku Midoriya’s hero costume has changed a few times in My Hero Academia, but this is definitely one of the coolest versions. With 11.4 inches, this item showcases a raggedy Deku using Blackwhip during his lonely search for All for One in the Dark Hero arc. The figure can be displayed with or without the mask, and it comes with tear stickers so fans can further customize it. How cool is that?

3. Haikyuu!! — Shoyo Hinata figure 6a5e4w

This figure is for the volleyball aficionados and those who like to defy the odds. The item is about 9.1 inches tall and features Hinata in his Karasuno team attire, crouching on a tree stump as the crow on his right arm prepares to take flight. It’s a glorious figure that any Haikyuu!! fan will understand the meaning of — and want on their shelf, of course.

2. Jujutsu Kaisen 0 — Suguru Geto figure 134w37

Yuji and Gojo usually take the spotlight, but if you have enough figures of them and want to escape the norm, this Geto statue is the way to go. It stands at approximately 10.1 inches and depicts the sorcerer in action, using his Cursed Spirit Manipulation in the Jujutsu Kaisen movie. The cursed energy emanating from this figure is jaw-dropping and perfectly contrasts with Geto’s relaxed yet menacing pose. It’s any fan’s dream gift.

1. One Piece — Luffy’s Gear 5 figure 4n475t

You can never go wrong with a One Piece figure, especially if it depicts the series’ protagonist in his giant Gear 5 form. Sure, the other gears were pretty cool, but nothing compares to the excitement of seeing Luffy use Gear 5 for the first time in his final battle against Kaido. This detailed 14-inch and 9-pound figure perfectly captures the likeness of Luffy in the anime. Plus, it looks huge on a shelf, so if you want to take your collection from good to awesome, this is an excellent choice.

To quote Demi Lovato: we like mugs because they’re very comfortable in our hands. They also just so happen to be the best way to introduce a little bit of our inner weeb within the walls of our homes without accidentally driving anyone away with anime. Lowkey fanboyism is a science, okay?

Plus, everyone owns and needs mugs — hence why they make the perfect gift and merch all in one. The only problem is that if you want an anime mug, you might not find particularly good ones in physical stores. More often than not, we must resort to online stores — well, Amazon, really — to find good ones that aren’t just designed with blurred images of Naruto and Sasuke. With that said, if you’re hoping to find the best anime mugs online for your favorite weeb (or for yourself, let’s be honest), you’ve come to the right place.

One Piece devil fruit mug 38e6q

You might have thought we’d choose the usual straw hat mug that everyone seems to have — it is pretty cool, after all — but we decided to surprise you with this 5-star-rated devil fruit mug instead. It’s a shiny blue mug with the phrase “I’m gonna be king of the pirates” printed on the edge of the Sara Sara no Mi, Model: Axolotl. While it is a bit on the expensive side on Amazon, I can assure you it’s worth the money — I know this because I actually own this one.

Jujutsu Kaisen’s Gojo and Geto couple mugs 1x325s

If you’re hoping to take a break from browsing Amazon and just so happen to be looking for the perfect couple’s mugs, I’ve got you covered. These Jujutsu Kaisen cups from Walmart are not only subtle enough to blend into any dishware set, but they’re also not too shabby when it comes to the price on the Walmart website. To be honest, part of why we find these especially cute is because they feature the most tragic ship in Shonen: Satosugu.

Studio Ghibli’s pretty glass mug 1k2m16

It comes as no surprise that Studio Ghibli’s mugs are next level. They’re unique and mesmerizing. This Boxlunch glass mug, though, struck us with nostalgia (because which one of us didn’t have a grandma with glass mugs?), but its green hue is just the perfect touch of modernity to make it one of the most beautiful mugs you can get in 2024. Of course, the Neighbor Totoro design makes it even better, elevating this already near-perfect design to pure perfection.

Pokemon’s Pikachu and Pokeball mugs 2un5k

Granted, these are not the most modern or refined pieces of merch one can get, but consider this: they’re super fun. This Amazon mug set is the kind that will not only entertain guests with its quirkiness, but if you have little ones at home, it’s the perfect set to guarantee some bonding over chocolate milk while a Pokémon marathon plays in the background. The opportunities to use these are endless — especially now that we have Pokemon Horizons: The Series to re-watch on repeat.

Demon Slayer Kitsune Mask 38323

Truth be told, there are plenty of Demon Slayer mugs on Amazon. Sometimes, though, a design just talks to your inner weeb in the best way possible. Yeah, that was this mug for me. With Tanjiro’s mask, a Japanese illustration alluding to Tanjiro’s water-breathing forms, and a black square for the aesthetic, this mug is minimalist, incredibly pretty, and one of the best Demon Slayer mugs out there if I do say so myself.

Spy x Family Anya and Bond mug 5y4p33

The scarcity of Spy x Family mugs out there is criminal. Thankfully, though, the Crunchyroll store actually happens to have one of the best. This cute mug not only shows Anya and Bond — arguably the two cutest characters in anime right now — but also includes a bunch of graphic elements alluding to the show, such as Anya’s penguin toy. It’s the kind of mug that will remind you of your comfort anime. However, if you want subtle merch, this mug is not it — but I’d proudly show it to everyone nonetheless.

Oshi No Ko‘s vintage mug 712q5

Now, for all the Gen Z’ers in the room, I have the perfect Y2K mug for you. This Oshi No Ko Amazon cup has a really cool and nostalgic design, almost reminiscent of early 2000s shirt designs that are now called “vintage.” Stab in the heart aside, this Ai Hoshino mug is not only the perfect merch for our favorite animated Japanese idol, but also an ode to the second season of the anime, which is already set for its 2024 release.

My Hero Academia’s relatable Aizawa mug 4r3wn

This My Hero Academia mug is possibly the most relatable piece of merch on this list. With a chibi design and Shota Aizawa’s death stare — ready to kill anyone who gets between him and his coffee— this mug perfectly embodies how everyone feels in the morning: always tired. While it may not be particularly aesthetic or suited for a girly home, it is still perfect for Zillennials hoping to mix a little bit of fandom love into their everyday routine.

One Punch Man Saitama mug 2s6sm

We have yet to get a release date for One Punch Man season 3, but once we do — and if it falls in 2024 — we can at least make sure we have a Saitama mug to accompany us throughout the next season. This Amazon mug is simple in the best possible way. Having Saitama’s plain and nonchalant face, with a where he’s just saying “OK,” is probably the best representation of One Punch Man I can think of.

Hunter x Hunter‘s heat changing mug 2b3b4a

Granted, Hunter x Hunter isn’t the most relevant anime in 2024, considering the manga’s dire lack of updates. However, when I saw this heat-changing mug at Walmart, I couldn’t help but add it to this list. In our opinion, heat-activated mugs are some of the coolest merch items out there, and this one activates green flames behind Gon to match his iconic green attire. The only way we could think to make this better is if there existed a blue Killua mug to match, but no pressure, Walmart!

One Piece Chopper mug a4gc

One can never have too many One Piece mugs — especially when there are so many cool ones on Amazon. For the sake of your wallet, this is our last One Piece pick though, and it just so happens to be a ceramic cup with a wooden lid! It has a lid, everyone! There are also three variations: Chopper’s is pink, Zoro’s is green, and Luffy’s is white. Personally, I think Chopper’s is the cutest, but Luffy’s is a good runner-up.

Attack on Titan‘s most useful mug 14345q

Attack on Titan’s last episode might have aired six months ago, but we’re still grieving our time together with the Survey Corps — and surprisingly, all the Titans. Now that we’re getting used to life without AOT, at least we can get the ODM gear blades of mugs with this green multifunctional Walmart mug. Aside from its color — which will undoubtedly and seamlessly blend in with any kind of dishware — it also works as a sugar cube dispenser, or alternatively, the best mug to carry around without spilling any hot chocolate (and you can stir it anytime you want!).

Sailor Moon ombré mug 524o62

Sailor Moon is the gift that keeps on giving. It doesn’t matter if you started watching it in 1991 or 2024 — there is always a new sequel, movie, or adaptation on the way. Sailor Moon is just that iconic. In 2024, we’ll be getting the final entry in the Sailor Moon Crystal story, Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Cosmos: The Movie, and we need the perfect mug for our imminent Sailor Moon marathon. That’s where this BoxLunch ombré mug comes in. It’s pretty, classy, and perfectly channels the Cosmos energy.

Anime posters are some of the best decoration pieces for any fan. Posters can capture anime characters in glorious poses, show off their designs, or simply feature character pairings and groups that almost all fans can enjoy. 2024 has been a great year for anime so far, and in the last few years, there have been some amazing anime. And you can never go wrong with an anime-related gift! So whether you’re giving into the whims of your younger self, or you’re looking for the perfect gift for young fans, here are 15 of the best anime posters to get this year. 

15. My Hero Academia 296ix

My Hero Academia continues to dominate in popularity, and the thrilling story of the students of the hero class of UA is always a fun, yet action-packed ride. As the story gets closer to its end, this is the best time to get this touching poster. 

14. Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End 6g3p4k

If there’s any anime poster that’s a must-have, it’s this Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End. This slow and heartwarming anime is filled with ethereal fantasy locations that are perfect for beautiful stills and breathtaking pictures. This pack of 8 posters also comes with a wall collage kit to properly display the beautiful designs they depict. 

13. Black Clover  h4q18

As Black Clover continues to win hearts, this poster is the perfect item to keep the show in mind. The pack of 8 features a host of different characters in dynamic poses that are sure to fire up any Black Clover fan as they root for Asta on his quest to become the Wizard King.

12. The Apothecary Diaries 5q1v1a

While action-filled shonen anime remains popular, The Apothecary Diaries captured audiences with its mysterious charm, and gorgeous, ancient Chinese-themed setting. This poster shows Maomao, the protagonist, and an aspiring apothecary, who finds herself working in the royal court and solving mysterious cases of illness. 

11. Bleach: Thousand Year Blood War 1852h

Bleach made one of the biggest comebacks in anime when it returned in 2022 to adapt the highly anticipated Thousand Year Blood War arc. This poster, with its red hue and juxtaposed characters perfectly captures the intensity of this arc, showing off all the main characters’ battle cries. 

10. Haikyuu!! Movie: Decisive Battle at the Garage Dump  6g3n6f

The unbridled joy and enthusiasm that the Karasuno High volleyball team exudes is just one reason why a Haikyu poster is a great pick for an anime poster. Hinata and his high school team face all kinds of trials and tribulations, such as in the latest movie, Decisive Battle at the Garage Dump.

9. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood 4q4r4c

Some people consider Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood to be one of the best anime ever, and it is easy to see why. This action-packed anime has the perfect balance of lore, heart, action, and drama to satisfy all kinds of fans. To top all of this off, the anime features some cool character designs that make this poster a must-have. 

8. One Punch Man x6w17

It’s not a stretch to say that One Punch Man is one of the most hilarious, action-packed anime debuts of the last few years. This poster shows the main characters Saitama and Genos in battle-ready mode, donning their signature game faces. With a long wait inbetween seasons, it’s always good to have these warriors close by.

7. JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure   5m5g20

JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure is a zany anime following the Joestar family over generations as they fight evil using their powers. This poster of the first-ever JoJo run, Phantom Blood, shows JoJo and Dio, as well as the mysterious Stone Mask. Fans of classic JoJo will enjoy this nostalgic poster as it calls back to the first season of the anime where it all began. 

6. Chainsaw Man  2y5e3o

Chainsaw Man made its debut in 2022 and introduced fans to a world of Devils and Devil Hunters. The show’s clever combination of body horror, classic shonen comedy, and societal commentary made it a hit. In this poster, you see Denji in his chainsaw form, doing what he does best — wreaking havoc and having a blast. 

5. One Piece 111f

While many people might see One Piece as a pirate story that has gone on for too long, real fans of the anime know that it is one of the greatest stories ever told. The story which has spanned over two decades follows the adventurous Straw Hat Pirates, led by their captain Monkey D. Luffy as they search for the world’s greatest treasure, the One Piece. In this poster, you see all of the Straw Hats as they stare determinedly at their futures. 

4. Attack on Titan 426f2m

Another strong contender for the greatest anime ever story told is Attack on Titan. Just like the three walls of Paradis, Attack on Titan is a story with many layers. This poster captures the highs and lows of this saga, with the pain and intensity expressed in the devastation on the character’s faces. 

3. Spike (Cowboy Bebop) 3p6g6z

When you mention classic anime, a common name that pops up is Cowboy Bebop. This space opera follows Spike Spiegel and his crew of bounty hunters as they travel the galaxy to capture its most dangerous criminals. In this poster, you see Spike in action, rendered in black and white to capture his mysterious swagger. 

2. Death Note 3e1a66

Another anime that often gets mentioned in the conversation of classics is Death Note. This thriller anime follows a high school boy named Light who stumbles upon a mysterious book called a Death Note which allows him to kill anyone by writing their name in it. As Light begins to experiment with this new power, he catches the attention of L, a detective determined to find his identity. This poster perfectly depicts the cat and mouse game Light and L engaged in. 

1. Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba 226865

Demon Slayer is one of the favorites in recent years, and the Kamado siblings continue to capture the hearts of fans as we follow their story. This vibrant poster shows some of the most beloved characters from the anime including Tanjiro, Nezuko, Inosuke, Zenitsu, Tomioka, and Lady Tamayo. Captured in the midst of action, each of them looks ready to strike and protect humanity. 

My Hero Academia‘s big final battle is over, but that doesn’t automatically mean the story is too. As Japanese society rebuilds itself from the destruction the war caused, a few loose ends still hang over the main characters.

After 10 years of chapters, Kohei Horikoshi’s work entered its epilogue stage with chapter 424, the first post-war. With a new haircut and new scars to add to his collection, Izuku Midoriya headed back to the place where it all began, UA, accompanied by his classmates, of course. The school’s former 1-A class is now 2-A, but while some students attempt to go back to their normal lives, there is an underlying tension in the air, which can be felt in chapter 425. Deku doesn’t seem to be doing too well, the Todoroki family still has to face the outcome of the battle, and there is a mysterious figure roaming the streets.

Naturally, the questions raised by the previous chapter left fans curious about what lies ahead. Hopefully, chapter 426 will answer at least some of them. It won’t be long until My Hero Academia reaches the end, so tackling these loose ends head-on will be essential to wrap the story in a deliberate, unrushed manner.

When will My Hero Academia chapter 426 be released? 4t3ud

My Hero Academia chapter 426 will be officially released on Sunday, June 30, at 10am CT. It will be available to read in several languages, including English, on Viz Media’s partner website, Manga Plus, or its app. If you want to be among the first to see what Horikoshi has in store for us next, head over there when the time comes.

Chapter 426 comes after a three-week extended break that left fans holding onto the edge of their seats, anxious to read more after the build-up in the previous installment. Knowing My Hero Academia‘s author, though, the chapter will be worth the wait.

Kohei Horikoshi’s My Hero Academia has been going strong since it came out, gathering a legion of fans from all over the world. Brimming with ion, depth, and compelling characters, this is one of the most popular Shonen series of today, with seven seasons and counting.

After season 6’s bloody Paranormal Liberation War, it was time for the anime to solve some long-standing mysteries and set up the heroes and villains for a final confrontation. That’s exactly what season 7 is all about, with several much-anticipated battles taking central stage over the course of its run. How long will it run for, though? This is the question on everyone’s minds, and as it turns out, this season will be nothing like the others.

How many episodes will there be in My Hero Academia season 7? 6l3s4r

Season 7 of My Hero Academia is confirmed to have 21 episodes and will run for two consecutive cours. This means the season will be shorter than most of its predecessors, which all had 25 episodes each, with the exception of season 1. The anime’s first installment ran for only 13 episodes in 2016, but fans have gotten used to lengthier seasons since then. So, why is season 7 different?

Why is My Hero Academia season 7 shorter? 4v2g3w

If fans recall, the anime aired 4 recap episodes from April 6 to April 27, titled My Hero Academia: Memories. Despite including a few original scenes and serving to bridge the gap between seasons 6 and 7, these episodes mostly consist of flashbacks, therefore, they are not included in the official episode count. This is part of the reason why season 7 has 21 episodes instead of the usual 25, but there is more to it.

While studio Bones has not explained why this season is shorter, it’s very likely that the people working on it simply wanted it to end at a certain part of the story. The manga is approaching the end, and with season 7 covering a big portion of the Final War Arc, it’s important to end it in a way that leaves viewers both satisfied and anxious to see what comes after. It’s clear the animation studio could’ve gone for four more episodes if it wanted to — it’d simply be a matter of releasing them in place of Memories — so the decision to keep the season shorter must’ve come down to pacing and the need to leave enough material to adapt in another installment.

Of course, not all fans will be happy about this, but it’s probably for the best in the long run. Let’s just enjoy season 7 as is; while shorter, it has plenty of exciting moments to keep us hooked to the screen.