Shueisha, the renowned publisher behind iconic anime franchises such as Dragon Ball, One Piece, and My Hero Academia, recently kicked off celebrations for its centennial anniversary. Having first opened its doors on August 8, 1926, Shueisha has played a pivotal role in shaping the anime and manga landscape. To commemorate this significant milestone, the company has launched a spectacular crossover event featuring beloved characters from its most popular series.
In a bold promotional move, Shueisha placed advertisements in newspapers across Japan, showcasing a stunning collection of characters from the Shonen Jump universe. This crossover includes heroes and villains from franchises like Hunter x Hunter, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, Death Note, Demon Slayer, and Bleach. Notably, each character featured in the advertisements is over one hundred years old, making this crossover a fitting tribute to the company’s long-standing legacy.
Upcoming Projects and Events for 2026
Alongside the centennial celebrations, Shonen Jump is gearing up for a major year in 2026, with several high-profile anime adaptations set to debut. This month will see the return of Jujutsu Kaisen for its third season, as well as the second season of Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End. Fans can also look forward to adaptations of Oshi no Ko, One Piece, Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War, and JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure making their way back to screens.
Another highly anticipated event is the Genki Dama Festival, scheduled for January 25, 2026. This event will delve into the future of Dragon Ball, a franchise that remains one of Shueisha’s most successful titles. With the absence of Son Goku and the Z-Fighters at the recent Jump Festa, expectations are high for what this festival might reveal regarding future manga and anime developments.
Shonen Jump continues to be a cornerstone of the manga industry, consistently printing both new and established series. However, the landscape remains competitive, with several titles facing cancellation due to various factors, including readership. Reports indicate that some series have ended prematurely, raising concerns for fans about the future of their favorite stories. The hope is that 2026 will see fewer cancellations, allowing more series to thrive.
As Shueisha celebrates its hundred-year anniversary, the excitement surrounding the upcoming projects and events illustrates the enduring impact of its creations. The company’s ability to innovate and engage fans remains a testament to its storied history in the world of anime and manga.
