Voice Actors Take the Spotlight

Fans had the chance to meet and get autographs from a fantastic lineup of celebrity guests. The convention welcomed some of the most recognizable voices in anime. Attendees were thrilled to meet Brent Mukai, known for his roles as the sinister Gyokko from Demon Slayer, and Apoo from One Piece. The event also featured a Pokémon celebration with two of the franchise’s most beloved voice actors, Michele Knotz, who voices iconic characters like Jessie and Piplup, and Bill Rogers, best known as the voice of Brock. Other notable guests included Benjamin Stegmair, known for his role as Iharu from Kaiju No. 8, and Tyson Rinehart, who voices Itaru “Daru” Hashida in Steins;Gate.

A Spectacle of Cosplay Excellence

The heart and soul of any anime convention is the cosplay, and Anime St. Pete did not disappoint. The halls of the Coliseum were a testament to incredible craftsmanship and dedication. The cosplay contest was a main event, with competitors showcasing their stunning, handmade costumes for a chance at top honors.

The judging panel for the contest included special guest and renowned cosplayer mystick_cosplayer, a prominent figure in the Five Nights at Freddy’s fandom known for her detailed and often spooky animatronic cosplays. She was joined by Cosfay, who brought her own incredible creations to the show. Cosfay, previously featured on a viral channel for her gender-swapped mermaid cosplay that garnered over 8.5 million views, once again wowed the crowd. She debuted a spectacular take on two classic Disney villains: Hades from Hercules and the Genie from Aladdin. Her costume featured a unique and breathtaking RGB hoop skirt smoke dress, which created an ethereal and dramatic effect that perfectly captured the essence of both characters.

A Culinary Adventure

In addition to the visual feast of cosplay, attendees were treated to a delightful array of food trucks that catered to every craving. The Asian-inspired food truck “I Wanna Wok” was a popular choice, serving up an assortment of delicious dishes. Another standout was the Takoyaki tent, which offered authentic Japanese street food and smelled so good. The savory aroma of the grilled octopus balls filled the air, drawing long lines of hungry convention-goers.

A Vendor’s Paradise

Beyond the guests and cosplay, the vendor hall was a treasure trove of geeky goods. From independent comic book publishers showcasing their latest work to stalls filled with collectibles like Funko Pops and vintage toys, there was something for every collector. Artists and creators had their booths set up, selling custom prints, pins, and other unique merchandise, giving attendees a chance to support the indie community.

Anime St. Pete 2025 was a fantastic weekend filled with fandom, creativity, and community. It was a true celebration of anime and all the art that it inspires.

Sony Pictures and Crunchyroll Collaborate for Global Theatrical Release

Crunchyroll, in partnership with Sony Pictures Entertainment, has made an exciting announcement for anime fans worldwide. The highly anticipated “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle” will hit theaters as a trilogy of films. Here are the key details:

1. Global Distribution: The three films will be distributed globally, excluding Japan and select Asian territories. Fans around the world can look forward to experiencing the epic conclusion of this beloved anime series on the big screen.
2. The Final Arc: “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle” represents the final arc of the award-winning shonen anime. As fans eagerly await its release, Crunchyroll President Rahul Purini expressed his enthusiasm: “We are delighted to have been part of the ‘Demon Slayer’ franchise from the beginning. This trilogy promises to be one of the truly epic and consequential pop cultural events of our time.”
3. Cosplay and Fandom: As an outlet that covers conventions, we know firsthand how popular “Demon Slayer” is among fans. Cosplayers worldwide have embraced the characters, making it a cultural phenomenon.
4. Release Date: While the exact release date remains undisclosed, anticipation is high. Fans can stay tuned for updates as the trilogy prepares to hit theaters.
5. Catch Up on Crunchyroll: If you’re new to “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba,” you can stream the series on Crunchyroll. Dive into the captivating world of demon slayers, intricate swordsmanship, and powerful emotions.