Fujio's digital content service, FOD, has unveiled the rankings for the most popular Japanese dramas and anime of 2024, stirring excitement among fans of various genres. This edition reflects viewer habits from the past year, offering insights on the changing dynamics of Japanese media consumption.
The announcement, made on January 6, 2025, highlighted the top titles across diverse categories, including domestic dramas, variety shows, anime, and more. The rankings are based on unique viewer numbers gathered from January 1 to November 30, 2024, underscoring the significant interest and engagement with the content available on the FOD platform.
Leading the domestic drama category was the critically acclaimed series, 海のはじまり (Umi no Hajimari), featuring popular actors目黒蓮 and 有村架純. This show captivated audiences, securing its place at the top by exploring themes of love and resilience, which resonate well with viewers. Following closely behind were classics like コード・ブルー -ドクターヘリ緊急救命-THE THIRD SEASON and ブザー・ビート～崖っぷちのヒーロー, which have maintained their relevance over time.
The variety show rankings also highlighted significant viewer loyalty, with 酒のツマミになる話 clinching the top position for the second consecutive year. This show is known for its humorous and engaging discussions, making it a favorite among audiences. It was followed by 全力！脱力タイムズ and the unique CS show 超特急の撮れ高足りてますか？, which notes the growing diversity of platforms and content types audiences are drawn to.
Turning to the anime sector, the listings revealed enduring classics still capturing hearts, with ドラゴンボールZ leading the pack. The series, which has entertained multiple generations, continues to prove its legendary status. Other favorites like ワンピース and NARUTO-ナルト- 疾風伝 were also prominent, reflecting the strong pull of action and adventure narratives.
FOD's approach to compiling these rankings not only celebrates existing titles but also acts as guidance for new productions, illustrating which themes engage audiences the best. This year brought forth insightful observations about viewer preferences, particularly the rise of emotionally driven storytelling across genres.
Among the many revelations were the rankings for BL (Boys' Love) shows, which highlighted コスメティック・プレイラバー at the top, indicating the genre's increasing acceptance and popularity within mainstream media. It was intriguing to see how this genre is becoming more integrated and appreciated, as audiences seek diverse representations and narratives.
With the manga category showcasing キングダム at the forefront, it’s clear readers are also turning toward epic narratives. Other entries like 呪術廻戦 and 転生したらスライムだった件 also gained significant traction, validating the trends seen across the viewing charts. The addiction to serialized storytelling continues to thrive, particularly among younger demographics.
The rankings demonstrate FOD's commitment to keeping its audience engaged through varied content, as they curtail future productions around these insights. Highlights of 2024 show not only what has succeeded but also point toward the potential for future hits as creators look to capitalize on current trends.
FOD's report encapsulates the evolution of Japanese media consumption, illustrating shifts toward diverse narratives, fresh formats, and innovative storylines. The rankings serve as both retrospective and forward-looking insights for producers, audiences, and anyone immersed within the Japanese entertainment sphere.
Overall, the announcement from FOD on its 2024 Popular Works Rankings not only brings to light what has captured the hearts and minds of viewers but also sets the stage for potential exciting developments as producers and creators take cues from audience preferences.