Anime enthusiasts and curious newcomers rejoice! Crunchyroll has launched a brand-new 24/7 free ad-supported television (FAST) channel on Samsung TV Plus, offering around-the-clock access to beloved series like Yu Yu Hakusho and Black Clover without any subscription fees. This strategic move significantly broadens Crunchyroll‘s reach and commitment to making anime more accessible than ever before, following its successful app integration on Samsung Smart TVs last year.
On October 29, 2025, the world of anime took another significant leap towards global accessibility with the official launch of the Crunchyroll Channel on Samsung TV Plus. This innovative 24/7 free ad-supported television (FAST) channel means that millions of Samsung Smart TV owners can now immerse themselves in a curated selection of anime series without needing a paid subscription.
This development is not merely a new channel; it represents an expansion of Crunchyroll‘s ongoing collaboration with Samsung Electronics, building on the success of last year’s launch of the Crunchyroll application on Samsung Smart TVs. The goal is clear: to bring the vibrant and diverse world of anime to the widest possible audience, breaking down barriers of entry and making it easier than ever to discover new favorites.
A Curated Journey into Anime: What to Expect on the Channel
The Crunchyroll Channel promises a continuous stream of fan-favorite anime, meticulously curated to offer both seasoned viewers and newcomers an engaging experience. At launch, the lineup features critically acclaimed titles that showcase the breadth of anime storytelling.
Initial offerings include:
- Yu Yu Hakusho
- Assassination Classroom
- Black Clover
- To Your Eternity
These titles, among many others, will be available with both English-subbed and English-dubbed options, catering to diverse viewing preferences. Crunchyroll has also stated that additional genres, themes, and special promotional programming blocks will be rolled out over time, ensuring a constantly evolving and fresh viewing experience.
Beyond the Binge: Integrating the Anime Effect Podcast
In a unique move that further enriches the viewing experience, the Crunchyroll Channel will also air full episodes of Crunchyroll Presents: The Anime Effect podcast. This flagship podcast-turned-video series delves into how anime influences everyday life, even for those who might not initially realize they are fans.
This integration provides a fantastic gateway for the “anime-curious,” offering insights and discussions that contextualize the medium and make it more approachable. It’s an intelligent way to foster community and deeper appreciation for anime beyond just episodic viewing.
Crunchyroll’s Strategic Vision: Expanding Accessibility
The launch on Samsung TV Plus is a significant piece of Crunchyroll‘s broader strategy to expand its presence across multiple platforms and make anime universally accessible. Mitchel Berger, EVP of Global Commerce at Crunchyroll, emphasized this commitment, stating, “We’re excited to give fans, and those just discovering anime, a curated, always-on way to experience the stories and characters they love, right from their Samsung Smart TVs,” as reported by Variety.
This isn’t Crunchyroll‘s first foray into the FAST channel landscape. The Sony-owned anime streamer previously launched 24/7 channels on Anime News Network-covered platforms such as LG Channels, The Roku Channel, Vizio Watch Free+, and Amazon Freevee in October 2023. Additionally, the premium Crunchyroll streaming service has been added to Amazon’s Prime Video Channel selection in multiple territories, including the U.S., Canada, Sweden, and the U.K.
This multi-platform approach underscores Crunchyroll‘s dedication to meeting fans wherever they are, whether through dedicated apps, premium subscriptions, or free ad-supported channels. The Crunchyroll app itself remains available on all Samsung Smart TVs from 2017 to 2025, offering users the flexibility to choose between on-demand and live-streaming anime experiences.
Crunchyroll Premium: For the Ultimate Fan Experience
While the new 24/7 channel offers an excellent free entry point, Crunchyroll continues to cater to its most dedicated fanbase through its premium subscription service. Currently, Crunchyroll Premium memberships, starting at $7.99 per month, provide ad-free access to an expansive library of over 25,000 hours and 50,000 episodes of anime.
The premium tier also includes highly anticipated simulcasts of the latest shows, delivered straight from Japan often just an hour after their original broadcast. This ensures that fans who crave the newest content and an uninterrupted viewing experience still have a dedicated destination, complementing the accessible nature of the new FAST channel.
The Future of Anime Accessibility
The launch of the Crunchyroll Channel on Samsung TV Plus signifies a pivotal moment in the ongoing evolution of anime consumption. By embracing the FAST model, Crunchyroll is not only expanding its audience but also solidifying anime’s position as a mainstream entertainment pillar. This move makes it effortless for anyone with a compatible Samsung Smart TV to stumble upon and fall in love with anime, potentially converting casual viewers into passionate fans.
