Daily Anime News Roundup – August 18, 2026
Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
- *Jujutsu Kaisen* becomes a bestseller in August.
- Crunchyroll shifts focus to digital offerings.
- Tributes pour in for special effects artist Screaming Mad George.
- Upcoming *Cells at Work!* Kabuki adaptation announced.
- Comico manga service closing in January 2027.
Table of Contents
- *Jujutsu Kaisen* Hits Bestseller List
- Crunchyroll Makes Strategic Changes
- Special Effects Pioneer Screaming Mad George Passes Away
- New Talent Joins the *The Idolmaster SideM* Cast
- *Cells at Work!* to Get Kabuki Adaptation
- Other Anime News
- What to Watch
*Jujutsu Kaisen* Hits Bestseller List
The first volume of Gege Akutami’s *Jujutsu Kaisen* manga secured the #7 spot on The New York Times’ monthly Graphic Books and Manga bestseller list for August. This recognition underscores the series’ strong appeal and the rising global interest in manga. [Anime News Network]
Crunchyroll Makes Strategic Changes
Crunchyroll has announced a significant update to its store, moving to remove physical manga and light novels from its offerings. This shift aims to streamline their services for Mega and Ultimate Fan tiers only, reflecting a broader trend towards digital consumption in the anime community. [Anime News Network]
Special Effects Pioneer Screaming Mad George Passes Away
The anime and film community mourns the loss of Screaming Mad George, renowned for his special effects work on films like *Predator* and *Big Trouble in Little China*. He was also the director for the *Guyver* anime adaptations. His creative legacy will be remembered fondly by fans and peers alike. [Anime News Network]
New Talent Joins the *The Idolmaster SideM* Cast
Ayumu Murase has stepped down from his role as Kanon Himeno in *The Idolmaster SideM*. A new cast member for the Mofumofuen unit is set to be announced soon, indicating ongoing changes in the production. This shift may impact the upcoming projects in the franchise. [Anime News Network]
*Cells at Work!* to Get Kabuki Adaptation
In a unique cultural crossover, the hit series *Cells at Work!* is receiving a Kabuki stage play set to debut in April 2027. Ainosuke Kataoka will take the lead in this adaptation, highlighting the ongoing popularity and cultural significance of the series. [Anime News Network]
Other Anime News
- Comico Manga Service Closing: The Comico manga platform announced its closure after 13 years of operation, effective January 2027. This marks a significant change in the digital manga landscape in Japan. [Anime News Network]
- Upcoming *Takopi’s Original Sin* Compilation Film: The *Takopi’s Original Sin* anime compilation film has been scheduled for release on November 27, 2026, compiling episodes from the series that premiered in June 2025. [Crunchyroll]
- New Anime Trailers and Promotions: Several trailers were released for upcoming series, including an English-dubbed trailer for *cocoon* and character trailers for *Sekiro: No Defeat*. [Anime News Network] [Crunchyroll]
- Manga News: *Fantagraphics* has launched a new imprint, Takumigraphics, starting with Yudori’s *Lovers of the Empire*, signalling a new addition to manga publishing in North America. [Anime Corner]
What to Watch
- Anticipated Releases: Fans should keep an eye out for the upcoming *My Hero Academia* figures in celebration of the series’ 10th anniversary, set for a 2027 release. [Crunchyroll]
- Premieres and Events: The *Haikyu!!* Movie 2 and its special anime event, revealing new information on August 19th, promise to be exciting for fans of the franchise. [Anime Corner]
