Wrestling legend John Cena has surprised fans by openly revealing his genuine passion for anime during recent interviews with Wired and on the “Whiskey Ginger” podcast.
Key Takeaways
- John Cena confirmed his love for anime in recent interviews, naming Fist of the North Star as his favorite series, which he frequently rewatches.
- He discovered anime during his teenage years in the 1980s and draws parallels between anime’s dramatic flair and the theatrical storytelling of pro wrestling.
- Cena’s interests branch out to contemporary anime like My Hero Academia, although his ability to watch extensively is limited by a hectic schedule.
- His celebrity endorsement promotes anime as a respected entertainment form and diminishes outdated stigmas around anime fandom.
- He notes the evolution of anime from cult status to mainstream thanks to modern accessibility through platforms like Crunchyroll and Netflix.
The Connection Between Wrestling and Anime
John Cena’s revelation illustrates how anime resonates with audiences beyond its traditional roots. For professional wrestlers—figures known for theatrical personas, intense rivalries, and physical storytelling—anime serves as a natural source of imaginative inspiration. Wrestlers, like anime heroes, embody traits such as strength, honor, and personal struggle.
Why “Fist of the North Star” Stands Out
Fist of the North Star, Cena’s favorite anime, is a 1980s classic known for its hyper-violent battles and post-apocalyptic setting. The story follows Kenshiro, a stoic and powerful martial artist who protects the weak in a lawless world. The gritty tone and good-versus-evil arc mimic pro wrestling’s own narrative style.
Modern Appeal and Mainstream Acceptance
Today, thanks to the advent of streaming platforms, anime has exploded in popularity across the globe. Cena’s fondness for anime like My Hero Academia—available on services like Hulu or Crunchyroll—demonstrates how accessible anime has become. His validation of the genre encourages a new generation of fans and busts lingering myths of anime being a niche hobby.
Balancing Fame and Fandom
Despite a packed Hollywood and wrestling schedule, Cena maintains an appreciation for anime’s storytelling depth and cultural impact. His open admiration supports a broader movement of public figures embracing their personal interests more freely in the digital age.
Cena Among Other Anime-Loving Celebrities
John Cena is not alone in his love for anime. He joins an ever-growing list of well-known anime fans including:
- Michael B. Jordan – Known for integrating anime design into his fashion projects and film influences.
- Megan Thee Stallion – Frequently references anime in her lyrics and stage outfits.
- Numerous NBA players – Including Zion Williamson and Ja Morant, who often praise series like Naruto and Dragon Ball Z.
The widespread appreciation among athletes highlights common values promoted by many anime series: discipline, self-improvement, and resilience—qualities essential both on-screen and in real-life competitive settings.
Conclusion: Anime as a Cross-Cultural Inspiration
John Cena’s passion for anime showcases the genre’s universal appeal and its growing prominence in global pop culture. Whether he’s headlining a WWE event or starring in a blockbuster movie, Cena continues to broaden his creative horizons. Through anime, he connects with millions of fans and fellow entertainers who find motivation and meaning in animated storytelling.
Wrestling Legend John Cena Confirms His Passion for Anime in Recent Interviews
I’ve discovered that wrestling superstar John Cena possesses an unexpected passion that might surprise even his most dedicated fans. The WWE legend and Hollywood actor has openly confirmed his love for anime through candid discussions in recent interviews with Wired and on the “Whiskey Ginger” podcast.
A Hidden Side of the Wrestling Icon
Cena’s anime enthusiasm represents a fascinating departure from his typical public image. Unlike some wrestling personalities who incorporate anime-inspired elements into their ring gear or publicly embrace otaku culture, Cena has kept this interest largely separate from his professional persona. His approach demonstrates how anime captured the world across all demographics, reaching even the most unexpected audiences.
The wrestling champion’s revelation carries particular weight because it challenges preconceived notions about who enjoys anime content. Cena’s admission suggests that his appreciation for the medium runs deeper than casual viewing, representing a genuine personal interest rather than a calculated public relations move.
Breaking Stereotypes Through Authentic Passion
When Cena discusses his anime fandom during these interviews, he speaks with the same authenticity that has characterized his approach to other personal topics, including his reasons for never having children. His willingness to share this aspect of his personality demonstrates how anime has transcended traditional demographic boundaries.
The timing of these revelations coincides with anime’s unprecedented mainstream acceptance. Major streaming platforms continue expanding their anime libraries, with Netflix adding more anime and classics regularly. Industry rumors even suggest that Dark Souls anime is heading to Netflix, while established creators like Idris Elba reportedly work on anime projects.
Cena’s fandom reflects anime’s ability to resonate with viewers across different industries and backgrounds. His appreciation for the medium likely stems from anime’s sophisticated storytelling techniques and complex character development, elements that mirror the narrative depth found in professional wrestling storylines. Shows like Jujutsu Kaisen exemplify this storytelling excellence, demonstrating why it’s a great example of shonen manga adaptation.
The wrestling legend’s anime passion hasn’t influenced his professional wrestling presentation, which maintains its distinctly American entertainment style. This separation between personal interests and professional identity shows how anime appreciation can exist as a private enjoyment rather than requiring public expression through costume choices or character development.
Cena’s openness about his anime viewing habits helps normalize the medium among audiences who might otherwise dismiss it based on stereotypes. His status as a mainstream entertainment figure lends credibility to anime’s artistic merit and storytelling sophistication.
The revelation that such a prominent figure in American entertainment culture enjoys anime speaks to the medium’s universal appeal. Cena’s discussion of his anime fandom during high-profile interviews indicates his comfort level with this aspect of his personality, even though it differs from his typical public image.
His anime appreciation represents just one facet of a multifaceted personality that has successfully navigated professional wrestling, Hollywood acting, and various other entertainment ventures. The fact that this interest remained relatively unknown until these recent interviews suggests that Cena maintains clear boundaries between his public persona and private interests.
This disclosure adds another layer to Cena’s already complex public identity, showing fans a side of their favorite wrestler that exists beyond the ring and movie screen. His anime fandom demonstrates that entertainment preferences can transcend expected demographics, proving that quality storytelling resonates regardless of cultural origin or target audience assumptions.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3zBDz2wzw4k
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Fist of the North Star Tops John Cena’s Anime Favorites List
John Cena didn’t hesitate when asked about his favorite anime. The wrestling superstar immediately pointed to Fist of the North Star, the legendary 1980s series that has maintained its place at the top of his personal anime rankings. This classic post-apocalyptic tale has earned the distinction of being both his all-time favorite and the most recent anime he’s watched, proving that some stories never lose their appeal.
The series transports viewers to a devastated world where martial arts warriors fight for survival in a landscape stripped of civilization. Kenshiro, the protagonist, masters the deadly fighting technique known as Hokuto Shinken, a martial art so powerful it can make opponents explode from the inside. Cena described this anime as a “cool movie about a post-apocalyptic society of martial arts superheroes,” capturing the essence of what makes this series so compelling.
A Wrestling Perspective on Anime Action
Cena’s unique perspective as a professional wrestler adds an interesting dimension to his appreciation of Fist of the North Star. He drew direct comparisons between the anime’s atmosphere and his own entertainment background, describing it as resembling a “pro wrestling, post-apocalypse WWE universe.” This comparison makes perfect sense when considering the series’ emphasis on larger-than-life characters, dramatic confrontations, and spectacular finishing moves that could rival any wrestling signature maneuver.
The connection runs deeper than surface similarities. Both wrestling and Fist of the North Star feature heroes with distinct fighting styles, memorable catchphrases, and the ability to overcome seemingly impossible odds. Kenshiro’s famous declaration “You are already dead” before his opponents meet their explosive fate shares the same dramatic flair as any wrestling promo.
Cena’s teenage discovery of this anime marked the beginning of his appreciation for the medium. The series immediately captivated him with its intense action sequences and unique world-building that sets it apart from other anime of its era. The post-apocalyptic setting provides a stark backdrop for the martial arts action, creating a visual style that has influenced countless anime series that followed.
The enduring appeal of Fist of the North Star extends beyond its action sequences. The series explores themes of brotherhood, sacrifice, and justice in a world where traditional society has collapsed. These deeper elements likely resonate with Cena, who has built his career on similar values of perseverance and standing up for what’s right. Anime’s global reach has allowed stories like this to transcend cultural boundaries and connect with audiences worldwide.
The fact that Cena continues to revisit this particular anime speaks to its lasting impact on him personally. Many fans discover new favorites as they explore different genres and eras of anime, but returning to Fist of the North Star suggests it holds special significance in his viewing experience. The series’ blend of over-the-top action, emotional storytelling, and distinctive visual style creates a viewing experience that remains fresh even after multiple watches.
This revelation about Cena’s anime preferences adds another layer to his public persona, showing that his interests extend far beyond the wrestling ring. His enthusiasm for Fist of the North Star demonstrates how anime can appeal to people from all walks of life, regardless of their primary profession or background. The series’ themes of strength, honor, and protection of the innocent align perfectly with the heroic character Cena has cultivated throughout his wrestling and acting career.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cqjR8jU8nD0
How Anime Themes Mirror Pro Wrestling’s Over-the-Top Action
I find Cena’s observations about the similarities between anime and professional wrestling particularly compelling. Both mediums thrive on exaggerated action sequences that push beyond the boundaries of reality, creating spectacles that captivate audiences through sheer intensity and drama. Professional wrestling matches, much like anime battles, feature characters who possess almost superhuman abilities and engage in conflicts that escalate far beyond ordinary human limitations.
The Art of Larger-Than-Life Storytelling
Cena specifically highlighted Fist of the North Star as an example of how anime creates wrestling-like scenarios through its fantastical fights and heroic narratives. This classic series showcases protagonists who deliver devastating finishing moves with theatrical flair, much like wrestlers executing their signature maneuvers in the ring. The dramatic character development, intense rivalries, and explosive confrontations in anime mirror the storytelling techniques that make professional wrestling so engaging. Both mediums understand that audiences crave emotional investment in characters who embody larger-than-life personas, whether they’re martial artists saving the world or wrestlers competing for championship glory.
The Growing Intersection of Wrestling and Anime Culture
This connection between anime and wrestling extends far beyond theoretical comparisons. Wrestling communities and anime fandoms increasingly overlap, creating a cross-pollination of cultural elements that enriches both spaces. Cena’s peers in WWE have begun incorporating anime-inspired gear into their ring attire, while storylines occasionally reference popular anime tropes or character archetypes. The influence works both ways, as anime’s global reach has attracted wrestling fans who appreciate the medium’s dynamic action sequences and character-driven narratives.
Streaming platforms have recognized this convergence, with companies exploring anime content that appeals to action-loving audiences. The entertainment industry’s growing recognition of anime’s mainstream appeal has led to increased investment in animated content that shares DNA with professional wrestling’s theatrical approach to storytelling. Characters in both mediums often possess special abilities, signature techniques, and memorable catchphrases that resonate with fans long after matches or episodes conclude. The shared emphasis on training montages, power progression, and dramatic comebacks creates natural bridges between these seemingly different forms of entertainment, explaining why figures like Cena find genuine appreciation for both wrestling rings and animated adventures.
John Cena’s Broader Anime Interests and Gaming Culture
Cena’s appreciation for anime extends far beyond his well-documented love for Fist of the North Star, though his busy schedule limits how deeply he can explore contemporary series. The wrestling superstar has mentioned My Hero Academia among the shows that have caught his attention, but his preferences consistently gravitate back to the nostalgic titles that shaped his youth. These classic series carry emotional weight for him, representing formative experiences that continue to resonate decades later.
His limited free time creates a challenge that many adult anime fans understand – the struggle between wanting to experience new content and cherishing the familiar comfort of beloved classics. Cena’s personal choices reflect this prioritization of meaningful connections over quantity consumption. Rather than rushing through modern releases, he chooses to revisit series that hold personal significance.
Gaming and Geek Culture Connections
Cena’s passion for video games creates another bridge into contemporary pop culture conversations. His gaming interests align him with a generation that grew up during the golden age of both arcade fighting games and anime imports. This dual appreciation places him squarely within modern nerd culture, where the lines between wrestling entertainment, anime storytelling, and gaming narratives frequently blur.
The interconnected nature of these interests makes perfect sense when considering how anime has evolved into a global phenomenon. Gaming culture and anime fandom share significant overlap, with many video game adaptations finding success in animated formats. Cena’s position within both communities gives him unique insight into how these mediums influence each other.
Major streaming platforms have recognized this cultural shift, with Netflix expanding anime offerings and other services following suit. The industry’s growth reflects what fans like Cena have known for years – anime offers storytelling depth that appeals to adult audiences seeking sophisticated narratives.
Gaming companies continue pushing anime-inspired content, while anime studios adapt popular video game properties. This symbiotic relationship creates opportunities for celebrities like Cena to engage with both mediums authentically. His genuine appreciation for these art forms resonates with fans who might otherwise view celebrity endorsements skeptically.
The wrestling industry itself has embraced anime aesthetics and storytelling techniques, incorporating dramatic character arcs and over-the-top visual elements that mirror anime conventions. Cena’s career has benefited from this evolution, as his persona adapts to include these cultural references naturally.
Recent developments in anime production have attracted mainstream attention, with projects like potential Dark Souls adaptations and celebrities such as Idris Elba working on anime projects demonstrating the medium’s growing prestige. These collaborations validate what dedicated fans have always known about anime’s artistic merit.
Cena’s appreciation for series like quality shonen manga adaptations shows his understanding of the genre’s storytelling sophistication. His preferences suggest someone who appreciates both the emotional depth and technical craftsmanship that define exceptional anime productions.
His integration into geek culture feels organic rather than calculated, stemming from genuine childhood interests rather than publicity strategies. This authenticity distinguishes him from celebrities who embrace pop culture trends without demonstrating real understanding or appreciation.
The gaming aspect of his interests provides another avenue for connecting with younger audiences who might not follow professional wrestling. His comfort discussing both retro games and modern releases shows someone who has maintained these hobbies throughout his career evolution.
This multifaceted approach to entertainment consumption reflects broader cultural shifts where traditional boundaries between “highbrow” and “lowbrow” entertainment continue dissolving. Cena represents a generation that grew up during this transition, making his perspective particularly valuable for understanding how these mediums gained mainstream acceptance.
From 1980s Nostalgia to Modern Anime Evolution
Cena has shared his perspective on anime’s remarkable transformation since the 1980s, expressing genuine amazement at the genre’s evolution. When he first discovered anime in the mid-80s, the experience differed vastly from today’s mainstream accessibility, making it a niche pursuit that required dedication to find and enjoy.
The WWE superstar recalls how classic series like “Fist of the North Star” served as cultural touchstones during anime’s early Western introduction. These foundational works now function as nostalgic bridges, connecting older generation fans with newer audiences who might discover them through streaming platforms. Netflix has expanded its anime catalog significantly, making these classic titles more accessible than ever before.
Cultural and Stylistic Shifts in Anime
The evolution Cena describes encompasses several key areas:
- Production quality has increased dramatically with digital animation techniques
- Storytelling complexity has grown more sophisticated and diverse
- Global accessibility through streaming services has eliminated geographical barriers
- Genre diversity now spans everything from psychological thrillers to slice-of-life narratives
- Character development has become more nuanced and relatable across cultures
What strikes Cena most is how anime has moved from underground curiosity to mainstream entertainment phenomenon. Back in the 1980s, finding anime required hunting through specialty video stores or relying on fan networks for dubbed or subtitled content. Today’s viewers can instantly access thousands of titles with professional dubbing and subtitling across multiple platforms.
This accessibility has created what Cena sees as a unique cultural moment where veteran fans can share their passion with newcomers more easily. Classic series that once required extensive knowledge to appreciate now serve as entry points for curious viewers. The stylistic evolution from hand-drawn cel animation to sophisticated digital techniques hasn’t diminished the emotional impact of these stories – it’s enhanced their visual appeal for modern audiences.
Anime’s global reach continues expanding as platforms invest heavily in original content and classic acquisitions. Cena’s observations reflect a broader trend where entertainment figures openly embrace anime culture, helping normalize what was once considered a niche interest.
Celebrity Anime Fandom Validates Mainstream Pop Culture Appeal
John Cena’s public admission about his love for anime represents a significant shift in how mainstream celebrities engage with Japanese animation. The wrestling icon and Hollywood actor’s enthusiasm for the medium demonstrates anime’s remarkable evolution from niche interest to globally recognized entertainment format.
Breaking Down Cultural Barriers
Cena’s openness about his anime preferences helps dismantle long-standing stereotypes about who watches animated Japanese content. His celebrity status provides a powerful platform that normalizes anime consumption among diverse audiences. This validation proves particularly important as streaming platforms continue expanding their anime libraries, with Netflix adding more titles and services like Crunchyroll attracting major talent.
The wrestler’s fandom reflects anime’s broader cultural impact that extends far beyond its traditional demographic. Anime’s global reach now encompasses professional athletes, entertainment industry veterans, and influential public figures who aren’t afraid to share their passion publicly.
Joining an Elite Circle of Celebrity Fans
Cena joins an impressive roster of celebrities who’ve embraced anime culture. His admission adds credibility to a movement that includes actors, musicians, and other entertainment industry professionals. These high-profile endorsements create ripple effects throughout popular culture, encouraging fans to explore genres they might have previously overlooked.
The wrestling superstar’s anime appreciation highlights how quality storytelling transcends cultural boundaries. Shows like Jujutsu Kaisen exemplify the sophisticated narratives that attract viewers across different backgrounds and professions. Celebrity endorsements like Cena’s help establish anime as legitimate entertainment that deserves serious consideration alongside traditional Western media.
This celebrity validation contributes to anime’s ongoing transformation from subcultural phenomenon to mainstream entertainment staple. Projects like the rumored Dark Souls adaptation demonstrate how anime formats are becoming vehicles for adapting beloved properties from various media.
Cena’s public stance encourages other celebrities to share their anime interests openly, creating a snowball effect that further legitimizes the medium’s place in contemporary pop culture.
Sources:
Wrestling Inc.: “John Cena Is A Fan Of Some Anime, Including Fist Of The North Star”
IMDB News: “John Cena Is Currently Watching an Anime That Is Heavily Inspired…”
PWMania: “John Cena Reveals He Is A Fan Of Anime”
Fightful: “Does John Cena Watch Anime?”
411Mania: “John Cena Reveals He’s A Fan of Anime”
ScreenRant: “John Cena’s Favorite Anime Is Very On Brand”
Rajah: “John Cena Reveals He Is A Fan Of Anime”
Instagram: “WWE Superstar John Cena revealed that he loves watching anime…”
