Over recent years, the popularity of anime has experienced remarkable growth, cementing its position as a significant cultural phenomenon. With easier access to anime outside Japan, several leading franchises have integrated into global pop culture, often discussed alongside the most acclaimed television series today. However, Television Stats highlights an interesting trend: only one anime managed to secure a spot in the top five most popular TV shows of 2024, and that honor goes to the legendary Dragon Ball.
Dragon Ball Reigns as One of 2024’s Most Popular TV Shows
Created by the talented Akira Toriyama, Dragon Ball has captivated audiences for nearly four decades. Despite periods of inactivity following the conclusion of Dragon Ball Super, its resurgence in 2024 with Dragon Ball Daima has rekindled interest from fans of all ages. The enduring appeal of the franchise is evident in its impressive ranking in television popularity.
A Testament to Timelessness: Dragon Ball Outshines Major Competitors
According to Television Stats, Dragon Ball Z ranks fifth among the most popular series of 2024, though this likely reflects the entire Dragon Ball franchise given its extensive content. With such a long history, it’s no surprise that the series maintains high popularity. In fact, the franchise’s only real rival in terms of longevity within the top ranks is The Simpsons, which took the third spot.
Other popular series dominating the top five include the crowd favorite Yellowstone, along with The Boys and House of the Dragon, which secured the number one position. Notably, Dragon Ball has surpassed shows like Shogun and Stranger Things, showcasing its unparalleled star power and staying relevance in the competitive television landscape.
Anime’s Ascendance and Broader Reach
Additional Anime Expanding Their Reach in Popularity Rankings
While Dragon Ball holds the prestigious title as the top anime in television rankings, other noteworthy series are also making an impact. Demon Slayer, a series that has introduced a new wave of anime enthusiasts, finished closely behind at number seven. Anticipation is building for its upcoming trilogy of films, beginning in late 2025, which could potentially break box office records within the anime genre.
Alongside it, Bleach has also enjoyed successful reception, especially with its latest installment, Thousand-Year Blood War: Season 3, ranking just ahead of Game of Thrones at #24. Meanwhile, Attack on Titan, another key title that has propelled anime into the mainstream, ranks at #26. Its final film is set for release in North America in February 2025, promising to attract a significant audience.
Despite its advanced age in the anime cronology, Neon Genesis Evangelion managed to secure a place within the top 200 at #51. Revered as a landmark series of the ’90s, Evangelion continues to captivate new fans, serving as a gateway to more complex storytelling in anime.
Dragon Ball Daima: The Next Evolution of the Franchise
As Dragon Ball Daima commenced airing in the latter part of 2024, audience excitement has surged after the recent reveal of Super Saiyan 3 Vegeta. With episode #14 titled “Taboo,”discussions on social media are buzzing, hinting that upcoming plot developments will likely enhance the franchise’s popularity even further.
The Dragon Ball series has consistently been a pillar in the anime industry, now surpassing many popular international shows in audience engagement. This classic not only retains its dedicated fanbase but continues to attract new viewers yearly, ensuring its legacy in the ever-evolving landscape of entertainment.
Source: Television Stats
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