Crunchyroll’s New Fantasy Hit Is the Only Peak Anime Worth Streaming Right Now

Every so often, a new anime series comes along and defies expectations entirely, whether through an unconventional narrative or cast, or simply delivering an unexpectedly thrilling experience that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. 2026 may be just beginning, but one new Crunchyroll series premiered, sending anime fans buzzing.

Sentenced to Be a Hero has only just arrived on the streaming platform and is already making waves in the anime community. Fans who have yet to watch or hear about the series will quickly find that it’s worth every bit of attention it has received so far, making it a standout among Crunchyroll’s 2026 winter lineup.

Sentenced to Be a Hero Is the Next Crunchyroll Hit Anime

Sentenced to Be a Hero is a dark fantasy series that takes place in a world where heroes aren’t beloved saviors, but condemned criminals who are given the title as punishment. These criminals are then forced to take part in perpetual warfare against a demon king’s army, where even death doesn’t offer escape, as heroes can be forcibly resurrected.

The series centers on former Holy Knight Xylo Forbartz, a condemned warrior who is infamous for killing a goddess. When he and his fellow hero, Dotta, encounter a new, powerful goddess, Teroritta, his fate is altered, allowing him to defy the eternal sentence imposed on him.

Sentenced to Be a Hero is adapted from the original light novels written by Rocket Shokai and illustrated by Mephisto. The series began publication on September 17, 2021, and concluded with 5 volumes, the fifth released on December 16, 2025, marking the end of the story.

Sentenced to Be a Hero Has Sparked Huge Buzz Among Anime Fans

The anime adaptation of Sentenced to Be a Hero was released on January 3, 2026, and has quickly gained traction among anime fans. Viewers took to social media to share first impressions and thoughts about the series, with each day bringing the series more attention.

With fan engagement already at a high, anticipation for the rest of the series is mounting, potentially positioning Sentenced to Be a Hero as one of 2026’s best series for the winter season.

Sentenced to Be a Hero premiered exclusively on Crunchyroll with a special hour-long first episode. The extended runtime allows the series to establish its world and characters clearly without feeling overwhelming, rushed, or disjointed.

The show has a simultaneous English dub, further extending its reach and standing out as an inviting new title for international anime fans. Produced by Studio Kai and directed by Hiroyuki Takashima, the first season of Sentenced to Be a Hero is slated for a 12-episode run.

With fan engagement already at a high, anticipation for the rest of the series is mounting, potentially positioning Sentenced to Be a Hero as one of 2026’s best series for the winter season.