San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) 2025 is set to host a monumental event for anime enthusiasts, as the acclaimed Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba franchise prepares a special panel in the prestigious Hall H. The gathering will feature pivotal figures behind the global phenomenon, including renowned singer LiSA, the Japanese voice actor for Tanjiro Kamado, Natsuki Hanae, and representatives from the animation studio ufotable. This highly anticipated panel aims to provide fans with an in-depth look into the upcoming Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Infinity Castle movie, alongside exclusive footage and insights from its creators.
An Unprecedented Assembly for Fans
Scheduled for Saturday, July 26, at 5:45 p.m. PDT, the Demon Slayer panel in Hall H, Comic-Con’s largest venue with 6,500 seats, signifies the immense popularity and impact of the series. This event marks a rare occasion, as it is the first time representatives from the celebrated anime studio ufotable will attend an event in the United States since the initial Demon Slayer television anime premiered in 2019. The panel will not only offer a unique opportunity for fans to connect with the creators and performers but also serves as a critical promotional platform for the Infinity Castle cinematic project. Crunchyroll and Sony Pictures Entertainment are spearheading the international release of the film, which is slated for a worldwide premiere starting in August, with screenings in the United States and Canada beginning September 12.
The Voices and Melodies Behind the Blade
The panel’s lineup boasts a formidable roster of talent integral to Demon Slayer‘s success. Leading the charge is Natsuki Hanae, the acclaimed Japanese voice actor who brings the earnest protagonist, Tanjiro Kamado, to life. Hanae’s portrayal of Tanjiro has been widely lauded for its emotional depth, capturing the character’s unwavering determination and compassionate spirit. His career spans over a decade, encompassing a diverse range of iconic roles beyond Demon Slayer, such as Ken Kaneki in Tokyo Ghoul and Kōsei Arima in Your Lie in April. Hanae’s ability to convey complex emotions, from the intense battle cries to the tender moments of brotherly love, has significantly contributed to Tanjiro’s widespread appeal.
Joining Hanae is the immensely popular Japanese pop singer LiSA, whose powerful vocals have become synonymous with the Demon Slayer franchise. LiSA has performed several of the series’ most iconic theme songs, including “Gurenge,” the opening theme for the first season, and “Akeboshi,” used for the “Mugen Train” arc. Her songs are not merely background music but are deeply interwoven with the narrative, often reflecting the characters’ struggles and triumphs. LiSA’s energetic performances and heartfelt connection to the series have earned her a global fanbase, making her presence a major draw for attendees. She previously performed at the Crunchyroll Concert Series at last year’s San Diego Comic-Con, marking her first U.S. performance since Anime Boston 2015. The panel will also feature Aleks Le, the English voice actor for Zenitsu Agatsuma, further bridging the connection between the Japanese and international fan communities.
The Animation Mastery of ufotable
Central to the visual grandeur of Demon Slayer is the animation studio ufotable. Founded in October 2000 by former TMS Entertainment employees, ufotable has garnered a reputation for its breathtaking animation quality, meticulous attention to detail, and dynamic action sequences. Before Demon Slayer, the studio was already well-regarded for its work on other notable anime and game titles, including the Fate series (Fate/Zero, Fate/Stay Night: Unlimited Blade Works) and The Garden of Sinners. However, Demon Slayer truly propelled ufotable into the mainstream anime map, setting new benchmarks for visual storytelling in shonen battle series.
The studio’s distinctive blend of traditional 2D animation with advanced 3D CG effects creates a fluid and visually stunning experience that elevates the source material. Their innovative approach to fight choreography, particularly the visually striking “breathing techniques,” has captivated audiences worldwide. The upcoming Infinity Castle film is expected to showcase ufotable’s animation prowess once again, bringing to life one of the manga’s most complex and action-packed storylines. The presence of Director Haruo Sotozaki and Director of Photography Yuichi Terao from ufotable at the panel underscores the studio’s commitment to the project and its appreciation for the global fanbase.
The Road to the Infinity Castle
The Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Infinity Castle project is a highly anticipated cinematic undertaking that will delve into the final battle between the Demon Slayer Corps and Muzan Kibutsuji. This three-part movie series represents a pivotal moment in the narrative, promising an “all-out battle” that will be the longest film of the franchise to date, eclipsing Mugen Train by 38 minutes. The film is set to debut in Japan on July 18, 2025, with an unprecedented number of theater screenings. Crunchyroll and Sony Pictures Entertainment will then roll out the film internationally, starting in August across APAC regions, followed by Latin America and some EMEA countries on September 11, and North America and other EMEA countries from September 12 onwards.
The Comic-Con panel will offer an exclusive sneak peek at footage from the Infinity Castle film, providing international audiences with their first glimpse outside of Japan. This presentation, coupled with discussions from the key creative team, will offer invaluable insights into the production challenges and artistic decisions behind adapting such a monumental arc. Fans can expect to learn more about the intricate animation processes, voice acting nuances, and the overall vision for bringing this climactic story to the big screen. Crunchyroll’s booth (#4135) at SDCC will also feature interactive activities inspired by the movie, further immersing attendees in the world of Demon Slayer.
The Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba panel at San Diego Comic-Con 2025 is poised to be a landmark event for the franchise. With the attendance of singer LiSA, voice actor Natsuki Hanae, and the visionary animators from ufotable, the panel offers a rare convergence of talent. It highlights the series’ global impact and underscores the anticipation for the Infinity Castle movie, promising an unforgettable experience for fans eagerly awaiting the next chapter in Tanjiro’s epic journey.
