This week, we’ve got some wild anime news to talk about: The Weeknd is coming to the Anime Awards 2026, ONE PIECE is collaborating with Popeyes, and more! PLUS, Alex reveals his HOTTEST TAKE on anime yet.Welcome to The Anime Effect, the weekly podcast hosted by Crunchyroll's own in-house, resident anime experts – Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, and Leah President. The show is a lively mix of roundtable news and discussion, featuring Crunchyroll hosts and special guests as they debate hot topics, offer recommendations, and tackle fan questions.Talk to us! ⁠⁠https://got.cr/AnimeEffectQuestions ⁠⁠ HOSTS: Nicholas Friedman, LeAlec Murray, Leah President SHOWRUNNER: Megan Peters V/A DIRECTOR: Shaun Michael Colon MARKETING PRODUCER: Carla Solorzano EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS: Nicholas Friedman, Leah PresidentFollow Crunchyroll on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@crunchyroll#animenews #animepodcast #crunchyrollpodcast #crunchyrollnewsLearn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices