While Crunchyroll has always maintained a free subscription tier with a solid anime selection, many of the platform's hottest simulcasts and most sought-after titles typically require a Premium membership. But here's something anime fans will love - as part of their "Ani-May" festivities, Crunchyroll has temporarily unlocked 20 premium anime series for free streaming.
Whether you're dying to see why everyone's obsessed with Solo Leveling, need to binge My Hero Academia before its final season drops, or want to experience timeless classics like Cowboy Bebop, there's something tempting for every anime fan this month. Let's dive into what's available.
20 Must-Watch Anime Now Free on Crunchyroll
Looking for your next anime obsession? Here's the full lineup of what's available without a premium subscription this May:
- Black Clover (Seasons 1-4)
- Chainsaw Man
- Cowboy Bebop
- Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba (Complete Series)
- Fruits Basket (Seasons 1-3)
- Haikyu!! (Seasons 1-4)
- Heaven Official's Blessing (Seasons 1-2)
- Hell's Paradise
- Jujutsu Kaisen (Seasons 1-2)
- Junji Ito Collection
- Kaiju No. 8
- My Hero Academia (Seasons 1-7)
- Overlord (Seasons 1-4)
- Shangri-La Frontier (Seasons 1-2)
- Solo Leveling (Season 1)
- Soul Eater
- Spy X Family (Seasons 1-2)
- The Apothecary Diaries (Season 1)
- Toilet-bound Hanako-kun (Seasons 1-2)
- Tokyo Ghoul (Seasons 1-3)
The selection caters to diverse tastes, featuring everything from the complete My Hero Academia saga (perfect for catching up before the final season premieres) to every episode of Demon Slayer ahead of its upcoming movie trilogy. Shonen fans are especially well-served with hits like Tokyo Ghoul, Jujutsu Kaisen, and the wildly popular Chainsaw Man.
Solo Leveling deserves special attention - this breakout hit has dominated anime discussions recently. IGN praised its first season for "seamlessly translating gaming mechanics into animation while delivering an addictive power fantasy."
Spotlight on Hidden Gems
While shonen dominates the lineup, don't overlook some excellent alternatives. Fruits Basket offers a beautiful shoujo experience, while The Apothecary Diaries shines as a historical drama with a particularly compelling lead character. IGN describes protagonist Maomao as "a perfect blend of sharp wit and quirky charm."
Horror fans might enjoy the Junji Ito Collection, though hardcore enthusiasts may prefer the original manga. Most of these titles will remain free through May, though a few might stay in the free tier longer. Either way, it's the perfect excuse for an anime marathon.
What Else Is Happening During Ani-May?
Beyond unlocking premium content, Crunchyroll is celebrating anime culture throughout May with exclusive merchandise drops, global in-person events, and their prestigious Anime Awards ceremony on May 15. According to Crunchyroll's Head of Global Products:
"Anime has evolved beyond entertainment into a true lifestyle. Through Ani-May, we're giving fans worldwide multiple ways to engage with their passion - from exclusive products and collabs to these special free streaming offerings."
Exclusive Merchandise Deals
The Crunchyroll Store is joining the celebration with month-long discounts and special releases. Hot items include:
- Limited Edition Solo Leveling Blu-ray set (20% off)
- Dragon Ball Super complete series Steelbook collection
- JUJUTSU KAISEN 0 movie Steelbook edition
- Classic titles like Grave of the Fireflies in special packaging
- Upcoming releases including Chainsaw Man Steelbook edition
With so much happening, May just became the perfect month for anime lovers to discover new favorites or revisit classics - all without spending a dime.
