Overlooked Gems: Why Major Manhwa and Donghua Series Are Missing From Crunchyroll's Awards

Published on April 13, 2026, at 1:15 AM EDT, Screen Rant's staff writer Casandra Ronning shares insights into the ongoing debate about the exclusion of prominent manhwa and donghua series from Crunchyroll's prestigious Anime of the Year awards. Despite their massive fanbases and critical acclaim, titles such as Solo Leveling, Lord of Mysteries, and To Be Hero X were notably absent from the 2026 lineup, leaving many fans questioning the criteria for inclusion.

The awards, which rely on fan votes across 32 categories, have historically celebrated diverse animated content. However, the absence of these globally popular series—particularly those with strong followings outside Japan—highlights a potential disconnect between audience preferences and award recognition. Ronning points out that Solo Leveling's second season, which reportedly surpassed its first in viewership and cultural impact, was overlooked despite its previous win, raising concerns about whether the platform values novelty over sustained excellence.

Critics argue that excluding manhwa and donghua adaptations undermines the very diversity these awards aim to promote. While some claim these titles fall outside traditional "anime" definitions due to their Chinese origins, Ronning counters that Crunchyroll's role as a distributor necessitates acknowledging its expanded catalog. The omission of series like Lord of Mysteries—praised for its groundbreaking visuals—and To Be Hero X—noted for its experimental storytelling—suggests a bias toward Japanese productions, even as global audiences increasingly embrace cross-border narratives.

Beyond individual titles, the debate touches on broader industry shifts. The rise of streaming platforms like Crunchyroll has democratized access to international content, yet the awards process appears slow to adapt. Ronning emphasizes that as manhwa and donghua continue to innovate, their exclusion risks alienating viewers who expect representation. "The future of animation lies in collaboration," she writes, "but recognition must keep pace with creativity."

Manhwa and Donghua: Catalysts for Global Animation Evolution

These adaptations are not merely niche successes; they represent a seismic shift in storytelling and artistry. Solo Leveling, for instance, has become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring merchandise, video games, and even live events worldwide. Its absence from the awards could discourage creators investing in similar projects, stifling innovation. Meanwhile, Lord of Mysteries and To Be Hero X have redefined what audiences expect from animated series—blending cinematic techniques with complex narratives once reserved for live-action dramas.

Ronning concludes by urging Crunchyroll to reevaluate its approach. "If the goal is to celebrate the best of global animation, then inclusivity must be non-negotiable," she states. "Fans deserve to see their favorite series recognized, regardless of origin."

As the 2026 Crunchyroll Anime Awards approach, the conversation around representation intensifies. With viewers demanding transparency and fairness, the platform faces a pivotal choice: uphold outdated norms or embrace a future where every story, no matter its birthplace, has a chance to shine.