Spring 2026 Anime Ranking: Witch Hat Atelier Holds Top Spot, Re:ZERO Makes Strong Return with Finale
Anime News — The highly anticipated final anime rankings for the Spring 2026 season have been released by Anime News Network. Witch Hat Atelier, which managed to stay at the top throughout the season, never relinquished first place. Meanwhile, Re:ZERO -Starting Life in Another World- rapidly climbed the list to land in 5th place with its impressive season finale.
First announced in 2025 and adapted from Kamome Shirahama's best-selling manga of the same name, Witch Hat Atelier captivated viewers with its magical world and visual aesthetics. Produced by J.C.Staff, the series received positive reviews throughout the season, strengthening the possibility of a second season. Shirahama's manga series has sold over 3 million copies worldwide, and the anime adaptation seems to have cemented that success.
Meanwhile, Re:ZERO in 5th place once again excited its long-time fanbase with Subaru Natsuki's time-loop adventure. Produced by White Fox studio, the series delivered unforgettable moments in the season finale with a shocking flashback to the main character's dark past. Anime News Network editors noted that the final episode was "one of the best-written episodes of the series."
The Spring 2026 season featured competition not only from these two series but also from giants like MASHLE: MAGIC AND MUSCLES and SPY×FAMILY. However, Witch Hat Atelier's innovative art style and storytelling propelled it to the top of the list. In the coming weeks, the first previews for the Summer 2026 season are expected to arrive. Fans are already talking about the confirmation of a second season for Witch Hat Atelier and rumors of a new movie for Re:ZERO.
