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Channel Surfer lets you watch YouTube like it’s old-school cable TV | TechCrunch

Channel Surfer lets you watch YouTube like it’s old-school cable TV | TechCrunch

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There’s a fun new way to watch YouTube: by channel surfing like a boomer with cable TV. This creative idea comes from London-based developer Steven Irby, who has just launched a web app called Channel Surfer, which presents interesting YouTube videos in an interface resembling a retro-looking TV guide.

In the app, you can browse through different, topic-focused channels and click to tune in as if you were watching live TV.

At launch, there are 40 of these custom-built “channels” to choose from, including those focused on general topics like news, politics, sports, and lifestyle content, as well as a selection of music channels and others with a more tech focus.

The latter group includes channels like “AI & ML,” “Code & Dev,” “Space,” “Retro Tech,” “Tech & Gadgets,” and “Gaming.”

Image Credits:Channel Surfer

As you move between channels, you join the video being played mid-stream. Meanwhile, the guide informs you of the upcoming content on all the channels and what time of day it will play. You can also scroll ahead to look at programming planned for the next 24 hours.

This makes watching YouTube feel a lot like watching old-school live television — an experience that’s proven popular on free streaming services like Plex, Pluto TV, Tubi, and others, which offer lineups of live channels playing TV shows and movies. YouTube itself, meanwhile, dominates TV streaming in the U.S.

Plus, a small counter at the bottom of the screen tracks how many other people are currently watching YouTube with you.

Image Credits:Channel Surfer

Irby says he came up with the idea to build a similar experience at the streamers, but for YouTube videos, because finding something to watch can still be a struggle.

“I built Channel Surfer because I’m tired of the algorithms and indecision fatigue,” Irby told TechCrunch. “I miss channel surfing and not having to decide what to watch. I want to just sit and tune into what’s on and not think about what to watch next.”

“My boomer Mom watches cable TV. I want the same, but with my YouTube channels instead. Also, it’s weirdly comforting to know I’m watching with other people,” he said.

The project is one of many new experiments from Irby, a 40-year-old tech industry veteran who has spent the past decade-plus traveling the world.

“I have so much creativity from my long, weird journey. I can’t bear the thought of being a Jira ticket monkey anymore,” he said.

The app seems to be a hit, with Irby noting that Channel Surfer’s brand-new website saw more than 10,000 views on its first day.

Under the hood, Channel Surfer is, for now, a static Next.js site that uses PartyKit and is hosted on Cloudflare. The channels and music it offers are from Ibry’s own hand-picked list. GitHub Actions is used to run a script that refreshes the data daily. There’s no backend yet.

And while Claude assisted in the coding process, the site is not “vibe-coded,” Irby says.

The channels themselves are essentially playing YouTube embeds, including YouTube’s ads, so the app should not be violating policy. Eventually, Irby says he’d love to bring the app to TV platforms, like Fire TV, Google TV, and others. (It also runs on mobile devices and tablets, but needs more work.)

At launch, Channel Surf is a free service offering access to 175 YouTube channels and 25 music playlists. But if you subscribe to Irby’s newsletter, you’re given the option to import your own YouTube subscriptions into the app.

It’s a quick-and-dirty process to do so: You drag a “Channel Surfer” bookmarklet to your bookmarks bar, then open your YouTube subscriptions, and click the bookmarklet. The process begins, directing you back to the app where you paste the copied JSON text into a box and click an “import” button. This adds your own channels to Channel Surfer’s existing lineup, potentially giving you hundreds more channels to watch in this format.

The site’s existence harkens back to the web’s earlier days, filled with fun experiments and creativity. For Irby, that’s the point.

“I’m obsessed with showing the world that the old web is still alive and well,” he says. “It’s just buried under a mountain of slop.”

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Jujutsu Infinite lets players master a variety of powerful Innate Techniques. However, not every Technique is equally powerful, even if it has a higher rarity. Some perform much better in battles, while others are better left behind. If you’re unsure which Technique deserves your spins, this Jujutsu Infinite Innate tier list will help you find the strongest choices for both PvP and PvE gameplay.

Best Jujutsu Infinite Innate Tier List

Every Innate Technique has its own strengths and weaknesses. Some are excellent for most situations, while others have limited use. We have ranked every Technique from S Tier to D Tier to make your choice easier. Your main Innate Technique should ideally come from the S or A Tier. These Techniques deliver serious damage and powerful Domain abilities. B- and C-tier techniques are better suited for support roles. They can help you build, but aren’t reliable for challenging content. These rankings reflect their overall performance across the game.

TierInnate Techniques
S TierInfinity, Star Rage, Demon Vessel, Thunder God, Gambler Fever, Ancient Construction, Soul King
A TierCurse Queen, Volcano, Hydrokinetics, Projection, Puppet, Soul Manipulation
B TierRatio, Plant Manipulation, Judgment, Curse Speech, Cryokinesis, Straw Doll
C TierBlood Manipulation, Boogie Woogie, Blazing Courage
D TierTool Manipulation, Construction, Cloning Technique

S Tier Innate Techniques

A Tier Innate Techniques

B Tier Innate Techniques

C Tier Innate Techniques

TechniqueProsCons
Jujutsu Infinite Innate Tier List Inspired by the hit anime and manga series Jujutsu Kaisen, Jujutsu Infinite lets players master a variety of powerful Innate Techniques. However, not every Technique is equally powerful, even if it has a higher rarity. Some perform much better in battles, while others are better left behind. If you’re unsure which Technique deserves your spins, this Jujutsu Infinite Innate tier list will help you find the strongest choices for both PvP and PvE gameplay. Best Jujutsu Infinite Innate Tier List Every Innate Technique has its own strengths and weaknesses. Some are excellent for most situations, while others have limited use. We have ranked every Technique from S Tier to D Tier to make your choice easier. Your main Innate Technique should ideally come from the S or A Tier. These Techniques deliver serious damage and powerful Domain abilities. B- and C-tier techniques are better suited for support roles. They can help you build, but aren’t reliable for challenging content. These rankings reflect their overall performance across the game. TierInnate TechniquesS TierInfinity, Star Rage, Demon Vessel, Thunder God, Gambler Fever, Ancient Construction, Soul KingA TierCurse Queen, Volcano, Hydrokinetics, Projection, Puppet, Soul ManipulationB TierRatio, Plant Manipulation, Judgment, Curse Speech, Cryokinesis, Straw DollC TierBlood Manipulation, Boogie Woogie, Blazing CourageD TierTool Manipulation, Construction, Cloning Technique S Tier Innate Techniques A Tier Innate Techniques B Tier Innate Techniques C Tier Innate Techniques TechniqueProsConsBlood Manipulation• Visually impressive abilities• Can bind enemies and apply pressure• Inconsistent damage• Low overall damageBoogie Woogie• Excellent mobility and disruption• Good combo potential in 1v1 and team fights• Lacks raw damageBlazing Courage• Decent choice for the early game• Features flashy fire effects• Not strong enough for high-level content D Tier Innate Techniques TechniqueProsConsCloning Technique• Decent mobility• One of the weakest Innate Techniques• Clones are easy to destroy• Very low damageConstruction• Can stun enemies• One of the weakest Innate Techniques• Difficult to aim• Performs poorly in PvPTool Manipulation• No major advantages• One of the weakest Innate Techniques• Lacks damage output #Jujutsu #Infinite #Innate #Tier #ListRoblox
Blood Manipulation		• Visually impressive abilities
• Can bind enemies and apply pressure		• Inconsistent damage
• Low overall damage
jujutsu infinite b tier
Boogie Woogie		• Excellent mobility and disruption
• Good combo potential in 1v1 and team fights		• Lacks raw damage
Blazing-Courage
Blazing Courage		• Decent choice for the early game
• Features flashy fire effects		• Not strong enough for high-level content

D Tier Innate Techniques

TechniqueProsCons
Cloning-Technique
Cloning Technique		• Decent mobility• One of the weakest Innate Techniques
• Clones are easy to destroy
• Very low damage
construstions
Construction		• Can stun enemies• One of the weakest Innate Techniques
• Difficult to aim
• Performs poorly in PvP

Tool Manipulation		• No major advantages• One of the weakest Innate Techniques
• Lacks damage output
#Jujutsu #Infinite #Innate #Tier #ListRoblox">Jujutsu Infinite Innate Tier List Inspired by the hit anime and manga series Jujutsu Kaisen, Jujutsu Infinite lets players master a variety of powerful Innate Techniques. However, not every Technique is equally powerful, even if it has a higher rarity. Some perform much better in battles, while others are better left behind. If you’re unsure which Technique deserves your spins, this Jujutsu Infinite Innate tier list will help you find the strongest choices for both PvP and PvE gameplay. Best Jujutsu Infinite Innate Tier List Every Innate Technique has its own strengths and weaknesses. Some are excellent for most situations, while others have limited use. We have ranked every Technique from S Tier to D Tier to make your choice easier. Your main Innate Technique should ideally come from the S or A Tier. These Techniques deliver serious damage and powerful Domain abilities. B- and C-tier techniques are better suited for support roles. They can help you build, but aren’t reliable for challenging content. These rankings reflect their overall performance across the game. TierInnate TechniquesS TierInfinity, Star Rage, Demon Vessel, Thunder God, Gambler Fever, Ancient Construction, Soul KingA TierCurse Queen, Volcano, Hydrokinetics, Projection, Puppet, Soul ManipulationB TierRatio, Plant Manipulation, Judgment, Curse Speech, Cryokinesis, Straw DollC TierBlood Manipulation, Boogie Woogie, Blazing CourageD TierTool Manipulation, Construction, Cloning Technique S Tier Innate Techniques A Tier Innate Techniques B Tier Innate Techniques C Tier Innate Techniques TechniqueProsConsBlood Manipulation• Visually impressive abilities• Can bind enemies and apply pressure• Inconsistent damage• Low overall damageBoogie Woogie• Excellent mobility and disruption• Good combo potential in 1v1 and team fights• Lacks raw damageBlazing Courage• Decent choice for the early game• Features flashy fire effects• Not strong enough for high-level content D Tier Innate Techniques TechniqueProsConsCloning Technique• Decent mobility• One of the weakest Innate Techniques• Clones are easy to destroy• Very low damageConstruction• Can stun enemies• One of the weakest Innate Techniques• Difficult to aim• Performs poorly in PvPTool Manipulation• No major advantages• One of the weakest Innate Techniques• Lacks damage output #Jujutsu #Infinite #Innate #Tier #ListRoblox

lets players master a variety of powerful Innate Techniques. However, not every Technique is equally powerful, even if it has a higher rarity. Some perform much better in battles, while others are better left behind. If you’re unsure which Technique deserves your spins, this Jujutsu Infinite Innate tier list will help you find the strongest choices for both PvP and PvE gameplay.

Best Jujutsu Infinite Innate Tier List

Every Innate Technique has its own strengths and weaknesses. Some are excellent for most situations, while others have limited use. We have ranked every Technique from S Tier to D Tier to make your choice easier. Your main Innate Technique should ideally come from the S or A Tier. These Techniques deliver serious damage and powerful Domain abilities. B- and C-tier techniques are better suited for support roles. They can help you build, but aren’t reliable for challenging content. These rankings reflect their overall performance across the game.

TierInnate Techniques
S TierInfinity, Star Rage, Demon Vessel, Thunder God, Gambler Fever, Ancient Construction, Soul King
A TierCurse Queen, Volcano, Hydrokinetics, Projection, Puppet, Soul Manipulation
B TierRatio, Plant Manipulation, Judgment, Curse Speech, Cryokinesis, Straw Doll
C TierBlood Manipulation, Boogie Woogie, Blazing Courage
D TierTool Manipulation, Construction, Cloning Technique

S Tier Innate Techniques

A Tier Innate Techniques

B Tier Innate Techniques

C Tier Innate Techniques

TechniqueProsCons
Jujutsu Infinite Innate Tier List Inspired by the hit anime and manga series Jujutsu Kaisen, Jujutsu Infinite lets players master a variety of powerful Innate Techniques. However, not every Technique is equally powerful, even if it has a higher rarity. Some perform much better in battles, while others are better left behind. If you’re unsure which Technique deserves your spins, this Jujutsu Infinite Innate tier list will help you find the strongest choices for both PvP and PvE gameplay. Best Jujutsu Infinite Innate Tier List Every Innate Technique has its own strengths and weaknesses. Some are excellent for most situations, while others have limited use. We have ranked every Technique from S Tier to D Tier to make your choice easier. Your main Innate Technique should ideally come from the S or A Tier. These Techniques deliver serious damage and powerful Domain abilities. B- and C-tier techniques are better suited for support roles. They can help you build, but aren’t reliable for challenging content. These rankings reflect their overall performance across the game. TierInnate TechniquesS TierInfinity, Star Rage, Demon Vessel, Thunder God, Gambler Fever, Ancient Construction, Soul KingA TierCurse Queen, Volcano, Hydrokinetics, Projection, Puppet, Soul ManipulationB TierRatio, Plant Manipulation, Judgment, Curse Speech, Cryokinesis, Straw DollC TierBlood Manipulation, Boogie Woogie, Blazing CourageD TierTool Manipulation, Construction, Cloning Technique S Tier Innate Techniques A Tier Innate Techniques B Tier Innate Techniques C Tier Innate Techniques TechniqueProsConsBlood Manipulation• Visually impressive abilities• Can bind enemies and apply pressure• Inconsistent damage• Low overall damageBoogie Woogie• Excellent mobility and disruption• Good combo potential in 1v1 and team fights• Lacks raw damageBlazing Courage• Decent choice for the early game• Features flashy fire effects• Not strong enough for high-level content D Tier Innate Techniques TechniqueProsConsCloning Technique• Decent mobility• One of the weakest Innate Techniques• Clones are easy to destroy• Very low damageConstruction• Can stun enemies• One of the weakest Innate Techniques• Difficult to aim• Performs poorly in PvPTool Manipulation• No major advantages• One of the weakest Innate Techniques• Lacks damage output #Jujutsu #Infinite #Innate #Tier #ListRoblox
Blood Manipulation		• Visually impressive abilities
• Can bind enemies and apply pressure		• Inconsistent damage
• Low overall damage
jujutsu infinite b tier
Boogie Woogie		• Excellent mobility and disruption
• Good combo potential in 1v1 and team fights		• Lacks raw damage
Blazing-Courage
Blazing Courage		• Decent choice for the early game
• Features flashy fire effects		• Not strong enough for high-level content

D Tier Innate Techniques

TechniqueProsCons
Cloning-Technique
Cloning Technique		• Decent mobility• One of the weakest Innate Techniques
• Clones are easy to destroy
• Very low damage
construstions
Construction		• Can stun enemies• One of the weakest Innate Techniques
• Difficult to aim
• Performs poorly in PvP

Tool Manipulation		• No major advantages• One of the weakest Innate Techniques
• Lacks damage output
#Jujutsu #Infinite #Innate #Tier #ListRoblox">Jujutsu Infinite Innate Tier List

Inspired by the hit anime and manga series Jujutsu Kaisen, Jujutsu Infinite lets players master a variety of powerful Innate Techniques. However, not every Technique is equally powerful, even if it has a higher rarity. Some perform much better in battles, while others are better left behind. If you’re unsure which Technique deserves your spins, this Jujutsu Infinite Innate tier list will help you find the strongest choices for both PvP and PvE gameplay.

Best Jujutsu Infinite Innate Tier List

Every Innate Technique has its own strengths and weaknesses. Some are excellent for most situations, while others have limited use. We have ranked every Technique from S Tier to D Tier to make your choice easier. Your main Innate Technique should ideally come from the S or A Tier. These Techniques deliver serious damage and powerful Domain abilities. B- and C-tier techniques are better suited for support roles. They can help you build, but aren’t reliable for challenging content. These rankings reflect their overall performance across the game.

TierInnate Techniques
S TierInfinity, Star Rage, Demon Vessel, Thunder God, Gambler Fever, Ancient Construction, Soul King
A TierCurse Queen, Volcano, Hydrokinetics, Projection, Puppet, Soul Manipulation
B TierRatio, Plant Manipulation, Judgment, Curse Speech, Cryokinesis, Straw Doll
C TierBlood Manipulation, Boogie Woogie, Blazing Courage
D TierTool Manipulation, Construction, Cloning Technique

S Tier Innate Techniques

A Tier Innate Techniques

B Tier Innate Techniques

C Tier Innate Techniques

TechniqueProsCons
Jujutsu Infinite Innate Tier List Inspired by the hit anime and manga series Jujutsu Kaisen, Jujutsu Infinite lets players master a variety of powerful Innate Techniques. However, not every Technique is equally powerful, even if it has a higher rarity. Some perform much better in battles, while others are better left behind. If you’re unsure which Technique deserves your spins, this Jujutsu Infinite Innate tier list will help you find the strongest choices for both PvP and PvE gameplay. Best Jujutsu Infinite Innate Tier List Every Innate Technique has its own strengths and weaknesses. Some are excellent for most situations, while others have limited use. We have ranked every Technique from S Tier to D Tier to make your choice easier. Your main Innate Technique should ideally come from the S or A Tier. These Techniques deliver serious damage and powerful Domain abilities. B- and C-tier techniques are better suited for support roles. They can help you build, but aren’t reliable for challenging content. These rankings reflect their overall performance across the game. TierInnate TechniquesS TierInfinity, Star Rage, Demon Vessel, Thunder God, Gambler Fever, Ancient Construction, Soul KingA TierCurse Queen, Volcano, Hydrokinetics, Projection, Puppet, Soul ManipulationB TierRatio, Plant Manipulation, Judgment, Curse Speech, Cryokinesis, Straw DollC TierBlood Manipulation, Boogie Woogie, Blazing CourageD TierTool Manipulation, Construction, Cloning Technique S Tier Innate Techniques A Tier Innate Techniques B Tier Innate Techniques C Tier Innate Techniques TechniqueProsConsBlood Manipulation• Visually impressive abilities• Can bind enemies and apply pressure• Inconsistent damage• Low overall damageBoogie Woogie• Excellent mobility and disruption• Good combo potential in 1v1 and team fights• Lacks raw damageBlazing Courage• Decent choice for the early game• Features flashy fire effects• Not strong enough for high-level content D Tier Innate Techniques TechniqueProsConsCloning Technique• Decent mobility• One of the weakest Innate Techniques• Clones are easy to destroy• Very low damageConstruction• Can stun enemies• One of the weakest Innate Techniques• Difficult to aim• Performs poorly in PvPTool Manipulation• No major advantages• One of the weakest Innate Techniques• Lacks damage output #Jujutsu #Infinite #Innate #Tier #ListRoblox
Blood Manipulation		• Visually impressive abilities
• Can bind enemies and apply pressure		• Inconsistent damage
• Low overall damage
jujutsu infinite b tier
Boogie Woogie		• Excellent mobility and disruption
• Good combo potential in 1v1 and team fights		• Lacks raw damage
Blazing-Courage
Blazing Courage		• Decent choice for the early game
• Features flashy fire effects		• Not strong enough for high-level content

D Tier Innate Techniques

TechniqueProsCons
Cloning-Technique
Cloning Technique		• Decent mobility• One of the weakest Innate Techniques
• Clones are easy to destroy
• Very low damage
construstions
Construction		• Can stun enemies• One of the weakest Innate Techniques
• Difficult to aim
• Performs poorly in PvP

Tool Manipulation		• No major advantages• One of the weakest Innate Techniques
• Lacks damage output
#Jujutsu #Infinite #Innate #Tier #ListRoblox
“big three” fantasy series have finally been christened, thanks to the wondrous arrival of the last in its holy trinity on Crunchyroll: Bug Films’ absolutely magical adaptation of Kamome Shirahama‘s beloved manga, Witch Hat Atelier.

At Anime Expo 2026, io9 got to speak with Shirahama and Coco’s Japanese voice actor, Rena Motomura, about how Bug Films utilized its production delay to deliver an adaptation that honored, and occasionally outshone, the artistry of its source material, what keeps the anime community’s newly adopted daughter so optimistic in an insane world, and whether Pointed Cap witches or Brimmed Caps have the best sense of fashion.

‘Witch Hat Atelier’ Creator, Coco Star on How the Anime Exceeded Expectations As far as contemporary anime is concerned, the “big three” fantasy series have finally been christened, thanks to the wondrous arrival of the last in its holy trinity on Crunchyroll: Bug Films’ absolutely magical adaptation of Kamome Shirahama‘s beloved manga, Witch Hat Atelier. At Anime Expo 2026, io9 got to speak with Shirahama and Coco’s Japanese voice actor, Rena Motomura, about how Bug Films utilized its production delay to deliver an adaptation that honored, and occasionally outshone, the artistry of its source material, what keeps the anime community’s newly adopted daughter so optimistic in an insane world, and whether Pointed Cap witches or Brimmed Caps have the best sense of fashion. Kamome Shirahama’s Brushbuddy. © Isaiah Colbert/io9 Isaiah Colbert, io9: During the anime’s delay, Bug Films announced that certain scenes needed additional time and attention, hoping the anime would be as big as The Lord of the Rings for anime fans. What scenes from this season exceeded your expectations? Rena Motomura: There are so many scenes that exceeded my expectations. But in episode one, at the end, when Coco’s screaming, “Mom,” and then Qifrey takes her up into the sky as the magic is being triggered, they’re skyward and having that moment together—I saw a bit of it in the teaser—but when I saw it in the anime episode, it made me so emotional. I saw exactly how my sensei’s world was being brought to life in anime form, and how the frames were coming together to tell this story. That’s when I knew with great conviction that we were going to have something really special on our hands. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZSGVFk9w5qA[/embed] Kamome Shirahama: This was really talked about a lot, but episode five, for me personally, when I saw it, I was super wowed. It made me really feel like I was watching a film in the theater. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E9URbx38AIY[/embed] io9: Shirahama‑sensei, your live‑tweeting during the broadcast has delighted fans—especially when you pose questions about characters as if you didn’t write them. Which aspects of the anime were your favorites to see realized on screen—and for Motomura‑san, which scenes were the most memorable or rewarding for you to record as Coco? Shirahama: Yeah, for sure. There’s things that you can see in the anime that the manga doesn’t contain—certain elements that make the world more expansive, more brilliant, more rich, and colored. Those are the things I was looking forward to the most. Motomura: For me, it’s the last scene in the dragon maze when Coco has this realization that her actions have put everyone into danger and she’s tearing up, saying, “I’m really sorry that this happened.” Up until that point, she’s been really cheerful. Really sort of outgoing. But then you realize that deep inside her heart, she’s been carrying a lot of this anxiety and worry that’s just piling up. As I was playing the character through the scene, it reminded me of how, through episodes one to three, there must have been a lot of internal thoughts—a lot of anxiety and worry. And that part I empathize with. I started tearing up doing the scene. And even when I look back on it now, I start tearing up. io9: For many, Coco embodies hope and determination, even when the world around her feels overwhelming or insane. How does each of you interpret the way her character maintains that sense of glowing optimism, and what does she represent to you within the story? Shirahama: Coco’s greatest motivation is her love for magic. Even when she faces situations that are fearful or scary, she knows that’s not all there is to magic. And she knows that there’s hope. And she holds on to that hope as her core belief. And that’s what moves her forward. Motomura: Coco has this enormous admiration for magic. I think as long as she holds on to that admiration, she’ll be able to keep moving forward. In the story, I believe her existence is like the mast of a ship. She is a very certain presence in the story, and deep inside her heart—at her core—she holds on to this admiration for magic that’s going to carry everything forward. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jA1sPU4F1n4[/embed] io9: This season introduced a variety of intricate, hand-drawn spells. Of the spells featured so far, which one stands out as your personal favorite, and why? Motomura: For me, it’s the very first spell that Coco came up with for herself—the straight arrow that carries her up into the sky in her time of need as she’s flying upwards. I really felt like this spell was an embodiment of her personality. In this moment, she has nothing. She has no skills, no knowledge, nothing. But she has to do something. So she comes up with this spell to help her get out of a tough situation. The name, too, is super cute. I believe Shirahama-sensei named it 空すっ飛び (sorasuttobi/Skysoaring Seal) in Japanese. Shirahama: For me, it’s the spell that Qifrey casts in episode six when they’re trying to have a picnic in the rain, so he creates this bubble where the rain can’t touch them. I’m so jealous because we get a lot of rain in Japan, and I feel like that would be a great spell to have when you have to walk your dog in the rain. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yu0qoRHqDt8[/embed] io9: If you had to choose—based on fashion alone, no morals at play—would you see yourselves more as the Pointed Cap witches in Witch Hat Atelier or one of the Brimmed Caps? Motomura: Oh! That’s a very difficult question. But personally, I have a bit of an ambition for the Brimmed Caps because ever since I was a child, I thought those kinds of hats were very cool. And then when I came into the world of Witch Hat Atelier, the fact that they cover their face so they can practice forbidden magic, I was like, “Oh, that is so cool.” I know that, morally speaking, as Coco, it’s a questionable answer. But I really like the Brimmed Caps…just as fashion! Shirahama: (Laughs) I feel like the Brimmed Caps might be more popular in a place like California, where you guys get so much sun. For me, personally, I really like the silhouette of the Pointed Caps, so I prefer those. Witch Hat Atelier is streaming on Crunchyroll, and season two is in production. io9 is on the ground at Anime Expo 2026. We’ll be bringing you updates on all the biggest panels, screenings, and announcements, plus exclusive one-on-one interviews with the people behind some of the best and most popular anime around. You can check out all of io9’s Anime Expo coverage here. Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who. #Witch #Hat #Atelier #Creator #Coco #Star #Anime #Exceeded #ExpectationsAnime,Anime Expo,Bug Films,Kamome Shirahama,Witch Hat Atelier
Kamome Shirahama’s Brushbuddy. © Isaiah Colbert/io9

Isaiah Colbert, io9: During the anime’s delay, Bug Films announced that certain scenes needed additional time and attention, hoping the anime would be as big as The Lord of the Rings for anime fans. What scenes from this season exceeded your expectations?

Rena Motomura: There are so many scenes that exceeded my expectations. But in episode one, at the end, when Coco’s screaming, “Mom,” and then Qifrey takes her up into the sky as the magic is being triggered, they’re skyward and having that moment together—I saw a bit of it in the teaser—but when I saw it in the anime episode, it made me so emotional. I saw exactly how my sensei’s world was being brought to life in anime form, and how the frames were coming together to tell this story. That’s when I knew with great conviction that we were going to have something really special on our hands.

Kamome Shirahama: This was really talked about a lot, but episode five, for me personally, when I saw it, I was super wowed. It made me really feel like I was watching a film in the theater.

io9: Shirahama‑sensei, your live‑tweeting during the broadcast has delighted fans—especially when you pose questions about characters as if you didn’t write them. Which aspects of the anime were your favorites to see realized on screen—and for Motomura‑san, which scenes were the most memorable or rewarding for you to record as Coco?

Shirahama: Yeah, for sure. There’s things that you can see in the anime that the manga doesn’t contain—certain elements that make the world more expansive, more brilliant, more rich, and colored. Those are the things I was looking forward to the most.

Motomura: For me, it’s the last scene in the dragon maze when Coco has this realization that her actions have put everyone into danger and she’s tearing up, saying, “I’m really sorry that this happened.” Up until that point, she’s been really cheerful. Really sort of outgoing. But then you realize that deep inside her heart, she’s been carrying a lot of this anxiety and worry that’s just piling up. As I was playing the character through the scene, it reminded me of how, through episodes one to three, there must have been a lot of internal thoughts—a lot of anxiety and worry. And that part I empathize with. I started tearing up doing the scene. And even when I look back on it now, I start tearing up.

io9: For many, Coco embodies hope and determination, even when the world around her feels overwhelming or insane. How does each of you interpret the way her character maintains that sense of glowing optimism, and what does she represent to you within the story?

Shirahama: Coco’s greatest motivation is her love for magic. Even when she faces situations that are fearful or scary, she knows that’s not all there is to magic. And she knows that there’s hope. And she holds on to that hope as her core belief. And that’s what moves her forward.

Motomura: Coco has this enormous admiration for magic. I think as long as she holds on to that admiration, she’ll be able to keep moving forward. In the story, I believe her existence is like the mast of a ship. She is a very certain presence in the story, and deep inside her heart—at her core—she holds on to this admiration for magic that’s going to carry everything forward.

io9: This season introduced a variety of intricate, hand-drawn spells. Of the spells featured so far, which one stands out as your personal favorite, and why?

Motomura: For me, it’s the very first spell that Coco came up with for herself—the straight arrow that carries her up into the sky in her time of need as she’s flying upwards. I really felt like this spell was an embodiment of her personality. In this moment, she has nothing. She has no skills, no knowledge, nothing. But she has to do something. So she comes up with this spell to help her get out of a tough situation. The name, too, is super cute. I believe Shirahama-sensei named it 空すっ飛び (sorasuttobi/Skysoaring Seal) in Japanese.

Shirahama: For me, it’s the spell that Qifrey casts in episode six when they’re trying to have a picnic in the rain, so he creates this bubble where the rain can’t touch them. I’m so jealous because we get a lot of rain in Japan, and I feel like that would be a great spell to have when you have to walk your dog in the rain.

io9: If you had to choose—based on fashion alone, no morals at play—would you see yourselves more as the Pointed Cap witches in Witch Hat Atelier or one of the Brimmed Caps?

Motomura: Oh! That’s a very difficult question. But personally, I have a bit of an ambition for the Brimmed Caps because ever since I was a child, I thought those kinds of hats were very cool. And then when I came into the world of Witch Hat Atelier, the fact that they cover their face so they can practice forbidden magic, I was like, “Oh, that is so cool.” I know that, morally speaking, as Coco, it’s a questionable answer. But I really like the Brimmed Caps…just as fashion!

Shirahama: (Laughs) I feel like the Brimmed Caps might be more popular in a place like California, where you guys get so much sun. For me, personally, I really like the silhouette of the Pointed Caps, so I prefer those.

Witch Hat Atelier is streaming on Crunchyroll, and season two is in production.

io9 is on the ground at Anime Expo 2026. We’ll be bringing you updates on all the biggest panels, screenings, and announcements, plus exclusive one-on-one interviews with the people behind some of the best and most popular anime around. You can check out all of io9’s Anime Expo coverage here.

Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.

#Witch #Hat #Atelier #Creator #Coco #Star #Anime #Exceeded #ExpectationsAnime,Anime Expo,Bug Films,Kamome Shirahama,Witch Hat Atelier">‘Witch Hat Atelier’ Creator, Coco Star on How the Anime Exceeded Expectations As far as contemporary anime is concerned, the “big three” fantasy series have finally been christened, thanks to the wondrous arrival of the last in its holy trinity on Crunchyroll: Bug Films’ absolutely magical adaptation of Kamome Shirahama‘s beloved manga, Witch Hat Atelier. At Anime Expo 2026, io9 got to speak with Shirahama and Coco’s Japanese voice actor, Rena Motomura, about how Bug Films utilized its production delay to deliver an adaptation that honored, and occasionally outshone, the artistry of its source material, what keeps the anime community’s newly adopted daughter so optimistic in an insane world, and whether Pointed Cap witches or Brimmed Caps have the best sense of fashion. Kamome Shirahama’s Brushbuddy. © Isaiah Colbert/io9 Isaiah Colbert, io9: During the anime’s delay, Bug Films announced that certain scenes needed additional time and attention, hoping the anime would be as big as The Lord of the Rings for anime fans. What scenes from this season exceeded your expectations? Rena Motomura: There are so many scenes that exceeded my expectations. But in episode one, at the end, when Coco’s screaming, “Mom,” and then Qifrey takes her up into the sky as the magic is being triggered, they’re skyward and having that moment together—I saw a bit of it in the teaser—but when I saw it in the anime episode, it made me so emotional. I saw exactly how my sensei’s world was being brought to life in anime form, and how the frames were coming together to tell this story. That’s when I knew with great conviction that we were going to have something really special on our hands. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZSGVFk9w5qA[/embed] Kamome Shirahama: This was really talked about a lot, but episode five, for me personally, when I saw it, I was super wowed. It made me really feel like I was watching a film in the theater. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E9URbx38AIY[/embed] io9: Shirahama‑sensei, your live‑tweeting during the broadcast has delighted fans—especially when you pose questions about characters as if you didn’t write them. Which aspects of the anime were your favorites to see realized on screen—and for Motomura‑san, which scenes were the most memorable or rewarding for you to record as Coco? Shirahama: Yeah, for sure. There’s things that you can see in the anime that the manga doesn’t contain—certain elements that make the world more expansive, more brilliant, more rich, and colored. Those are the things I was looking forward to the most. Motomura: For me, it’s the last scene in the dragon maze when Coco has this realization that her actions have put everyone into danger and she’s tearing up, saying, “I’m really sorry that this happened.” Up until that point, she’s been really cheerful. Really sort of outgoing. But then you realize that deep inside her heart, she’s been carrying a lot of this anxiety and worry that’s just piling up. As I was playing the character through the scene, it reminded me of how, through episodes one to three, there must have been a lot of internal thoughts—a lot of anxiety and worry. And that part I empathize with. I started tearing up doing the scene. And even when I look back on it now, I start tearing up. io9: For many, Coco embodies hope and determination, even when the world around her feels overwhelming or insane. How does each of you interpret the way her character maintains that sense of glowing optimism, and what does she represent to you within the story? Shirahama: Coco’s greatest motivation is her love for magic. Even when she faces situations that are fearful or scary, she knows that’s not all there is to magic. And she knows that there’s hope. And she holds on to that hope as her core belief. And that’s what moves her forward. Motomura: Coco has this enormous admiration for magic. I think as long as she holds on to that admiration, she’ll be able to keep moving forward. In the story, I believe her existence is like the mast of a ship. She is a very certain presence in the story, and deep inside her heart—at her core—she holds on to this admiration for magic that’s going to carry everything forward. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jA1sPU4F1n4[/embed] io9: This season introduced a variety of intricate, hand-drawn spells. Of the spells featured so far, which one stands out as your personal favorite, and why? Motomura: For me, it’s the very first spell that Coco came up with for herself—the straight arrow that carries her up into the sky in her time of need as she’s flying upwards. I really felt like this spell was an embodiment of her personality. In this moment, she has nothing. She has no skills, no knowledge, nothing. But she has to do something. So she comes up with this spell to help her get out of a tough situation. The name, too, is super cute. I believe Shirahama-sensei named it 空すっ飛び (sorasuttobi/Skysoaring Seal) in Japanese. Shirahama: For me, it’s the spell that Qifrey casts in episode six when they’re trying to have a picnic in the rain, so he creates this bubble where the rain can’t touch them. I’m so jealous because we get a lot of rain in Japan, and I feel like that would be a great spell to have when you have to walk your dog in the rain. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yu0qoRHqDt8[/embed] io9: If you had to choose—based on fashion alone, no morals at play—would you see yourselves more as the Pointed Cap witches in Witch Hat Atelier or one of the Brimmed Caps? Motomura: Oh! That’s a very difficult question. But personally, I have a bit of an ambition for the Brimmed Caps because ever since I was a child, I thought those kinds of hats were very cool. And then when I came into the world of Witch Hat Atelier, the fact that they cover their face so they can practice forbidden magic, I was like, “Oh, that is so cool.” I know that, morally speaking, as Coco, it’s a questionable answer. But I really like the Brimmed Caps…just as fashion! Shirahama: (Laughs) I feel like the Brimmed Caps might be more popular in a place like California, where you guys get so much sun. For me, personally, I really like the silhouette of the Pointed Caps, so I prefer those. Witch Hat Atelier is streaming on Crunchyroll, and season two is in production. io9 is on the ground at Anime Expo 2026. We’ll be bringing you updates on all the biggest panels, screenings, and announcements, plus exclusive one-on-one interviews with the people behind some of the best and most popular anime around. You can check out all of io9’s Anime Expo coverage here. Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who. #Witch #Hat #Atelier #Creator #Coco #Star #Anime #Exceeded #ExpectationsAnime,Anime Expo,Bug Films,Kamome Shirahama,Witch Hat Atelier

have finally been christened, thanks to the wondrous arrival of the last in its holy trinity on Crunchyroll: Bug Films’ absolutely magical adaptation of Kamome Shirahama‘s beloved manga, Witch Hat Atelier.

At Anime Expo 2026, io9 got to speak with Shirahama and Coco’s Japanese voice actor, Rena Motomura, about how Bug Films utilized its production delay to deliver an adaptation that honored, and occasionally outshone, the artistry of its source material, what keeps the anime community’s newly adopted daughter so optimistic in an insane world, and whether Pointed Cap witches or Brimmed Caps have the best sense of fashion.

‘Witch Hat Atelier’ Creator, Coco Star on How the Anime Exceeded Expectations As far as contemporary anime is concerned, the “big three” fantasy series have finally been christened, thanks to the wondrous arrival of the last in its holy trinity on Crunchyroll: Bug Films’ absolutely magical adaptation of Kamome Shirahama‘s beloved manga, Witch Hat Atelier. At Anime Expo 2026, io9 got to speak with Shirahama and Coco’s Japanese voice actor, Rena Motomura, about how Bug Films utilized its production delay to deliver an adaptation that honored, and occasionally outshone, the artistry of its source material, what keeps the anime community’s newly adopted daughter so optimistic in an insane world, and whether Pointed Cap witches or Brimmed Caps have the best sense of fashion. Kamome Shirahama’s Brushbuddy. © Isaiah Colbert/io9 Isaiah Colbert, io9: During the anime’s delay, Bug Films announced that certain scenes needed additional time and attention, hoping the anime would be as big as The Lord of the Rings for anime fans. What scenes from this season exceeded your expectations? Rena Motomura: There are so many scenes that exceeded my expectations. But in episode one, at the end, when Coco’s screaming, “Mom,” and then Qifrey takes her up into the sky as the magic is being triggered, they’re skyward and having that moment together—I saw a bit of it in the teaser—but when I saw it in the anime episode, it made me so emotional. I saw exactly how my sensei’s world was being brought to life in anime form, and how the frames were coming together to tell this story. That’s when I knew with great conviction that we were going to have something really special on our hands. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZSGVFk9w5qA[/embed] Kamome Shirahama: This was really talked about a lot, but episode five, for me personally, when I saw it, I was super wowed. It made me really feel like I was watching a film in the theater. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E9URbx38AIY[/embed] io9: Shirahama‑sensei, your live‑tweeting during the broadcast has delighted fans—especially when you pose questions about characters as if you didn’t write them. Which aspects of the anime were your favorites to see realized on screen—and for Motomura‑san, which scenes were the most memorable or rewarding for you to record as Coco? Shirahama: Yeah, for sure. There’s things that you can see in the anime that the manga doesn’t contain—certain elements that make the world more expansive, more brilliant, more rich, and colored. Those are the things I was looking forward to the most. Motomura: For me, it’s the last scene in the dragon maze when Coco has this realization that her actions have put everyone into danger and she’s tearing up, saying, “I’m really sorry that this happened.” Up until that point, she’s been really cheerful. Really sort of outgoing. But then you realize that deep inside her heart, she’s been carrying a lot of this anxiety and worry that’s just piling up. As I was playing the character through the scene, it reminded me of how, through episodes one to three, there must have been a lot of internal thoughts—a lot of anxiety and worry. And that part I empathize with. I started tearing up doing the scene. And even when I look back on it now, I start tearing up. io9: For many, Coco embodies hope and determination, even when the world around her feels overwhelming or insane. How does each of you interpret the way her character maintains that sense of glowing optimism, and what does she represent to you within the story? Shirahama: Coco’s greatest motivation is her love for magic. Even when she faces situations that are fearful or scary, she knows that’s not all there is to magic. And she knows that there’s hope. And she holds on to that hope as her core belief. And that’s what moves her forward. Motomura: Coco has this enormous admiration for magic. I think as long as she holds on to that admiration, she’ll be able to keep moving forward. In the story, I believe her existence is like the mast of a ship. She is a very certain presence in the story, and deep inside her heart—at her core—she holds on to this admiration for magic that’s going to carry everything forward. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jA1sPU4F1n4[/embed] io9: This season introduced a variety of intricate, hand-drawn spells. Of the spells featured so far, which one stands out as your personal favorite, and why? Motomura: For me, it’s the very first spell that Coco came up with for herself—the straight arrow that carries her up into the sky in her time of need as she’s flying upwards. I really felt like this spell was an embodiment of her personality. In this moment, she has nothing. She has no skills, no knowledge, nothing. But she has to do something. So she comes up with this spell to help her get out of a tough situation. The name, too, is super cute. I believe Shirahama-sensei named it 空すっ飛び (sorasuttobi/Skysoaring Seal) in Japanese. Shirahama: For me, it’s the spell that Qifrey casts in episode six when they’re trying to have a picnic in the rain, so he creates this bubble where the rain can’t touch them. I’m so jealous because we get a lot of rain in Japan, and I feel like that would be a great spell to have when you have to walk your dog in the rain. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yu0qoRHqDt8[/embed] io9: If you had to choose—based on fashion alone, no morals at play—would you see yourselves more as the Pointed Cap witches in Witch Hat Atelier or one of the Brimmed Caps? Motomura: Oh! That’s a very difficult question. But personally, I have a bit of an ambition for the Brimmed Caps because ever since I was a child, I thought those kinds of hats were very cool. And then when I came into the world of Witch Hat Atelier, the fact that they cover their face so they can practice forbidden magic, I was like, “Oh, that is so cool.” I know that, morally speaking, as Coco, it’s a questionable answer. But I really like the Brimmed Caps…just as fashion! Shirahama: (Laughs) I feel like the Brimmed Caps might be more popular in a place like California, where you guys get so much sun. For me, personally, I really like the silhouette of the Pointed Caps, so I prefer those. Witch Hat Atelier is streaming on Crunchyroll, and season two is in production. io9 is on the ground at Anime Expo 2026. We’ll be bringing you updates on all the biggest panels, screenings, and announcements, plus exclusive one-on-one interviews with the people behind some of the best and most popular anime around. You can check out all of io9’s Anime Expo coverage here. Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who. #Witch #Hat #Atelier #Creator #Coco #Star #Anime #Exceeded #ExpectationsAnime,Anime Expo,Bug Films,Kamome Shirahama,Witch Hat Atelier
Kamome Shirahama’s Brushbuddy. © Isaiah Colbert/io9

Isaiah Colbert, io9: During the anime’s delay, Bug Films announced that certain scenes needed additional time and attention, hoping the anime would be as big as The Lord of the Rings for anime fans. What scenes from this season exceeded your expectations?

Rena Motomura: There are so many scenes that exceeded my expectations. But in episode one, at the end, when Coco’s screaming, “Mom,” and then Qifrey takes her up into the sky as the magic is being triggered, they’re skyward and having that moment together—I saw a bit of it in the teaser—but when I saw it in the anime episode, it made me so emotional. I saw exactly how my sensei’s world was being brought to life in anime form, and how the frames were coming together to tell this story. That’s when I knew with great conviction that we were going to have something really special on our hands.

Kamome Shirahama: This was really talked about a lot, but episode five, for me personally, when I saw it, I was super wowed. It made me really feel like I was watching a film in the theater.

io9: Shirahama‑sensei, your live‑tweeting during the broadcast has delighted fans—especially when you pose questions about characters as if you didn’t write them. Which aspects of the anime were your favorites to see realized on screen—and for Motomura‑san, which scenes were the most memorable or rewarding for you to record as Coco?

Shirahama: Yeah, for sure. There’s things that you can see in the anime that the manga doesn’t contain—certain elements that make the world more expansive, more brilliant, more rich, and colored. Those are the things I was looking forward to the most.

Motomura: For me, it’s the last scene in the dragon maze when Coco has this realization that her actions have put everyone into danger and she’s tearing up, saying, “I’m really sorry that this happened.” Up until that point, she’s been really cheerful. Really sort of outgoing. But then you realize that deep inside her heart, she’s been carrying a lot of this anxiety and worry that’s just piling up. As I was playing the character through the scene, it reminded me of how, through episodes one to three, there must have been a lot of internal thoughts—a lot of anxiety and worry. And that part I empathize with. I started tearing up doing the scene. And even when I look back on it now, I start tearing up.

io9: For many, Coco embodies hope and determination, even when the world around her feels overwhelming or insane. How does each of you interpret the way her character maintains that sense of glowing optimism, and what does she represent to you within the story?

Shirahama: Coco’s greatest motivation is her love for magic. Even when she faces situations that are fearful or scary, she knows that’s not all there is to magic. And she knows that there’s hope. And she holds on to that hope as her core belief. And that’s what moves her forward.

Motomura: Coco has this enormous admiration for magic. I think as long as she holds on to that admiration, she’ll be able to keep moving forward. In the story, I believe her existence is like the mast of a ship. She is a very certain presence in the story, and deep inside her heart—at her core—she holds on to this admiration for magic that’s going to carry everything forward.

io9: This season introduced a variety of intricate, hand-drawn spells. Of the spells featured so far, which one stands out as your personal favorite, and why?

Motomura: For me, it’s the very first spell that Coco came up with for herself—the straight arrow that carries her up into the sky in her time of need as she’s flying upwards. I really felt like this spell was an embodiment of her personality. In this moment, she has nothing. She has no skills, no knowledge, nothing. But she has to do something. So she comes up with this spell to help her get out of a tough situation. The name, too, is super cute. I believe Shirahama-sensei named it 空すっ飛び (sorasuttobi/Skysoaring Seal) in Japanese.

Shirahama: For me, it’s the spell that Qifrey casts in episode six when they’re trying to have a picnic in the rain, so he creates this bubble where the rain can’t touch them. I’m so jealous because we get a lot of rain in Japan, and I feel like that would be a great spell to have when you have to walk your dog in the rain.

io9: If you had to choose—based on fashion alone, no morals at play—would you see yourselves more as the Pointed Cap witches in Witch Hat Atelier or one of the Brimmed Caps?

Motomura: Oh! That’s a very difficult question. But personally, I have a bit of an ambition for the Brimmed Caps because ever since I was a child, I thought those kinds of hats were very cool. And then when I came into the world of Witch Hat Atelier, the fact that they cover their face so they can practice forbidden magic, I was like, “Oh, that is so cool.” I know that, morally speaking, as Coco, it’s a questionable answer. But I really like the Brimmed Caps…just as fashion!

Shirahama: (Laughs) I feel like the Brimmed Caps might be more popular in a place like California, where you guys get so much sun. For me, personally, I really like the silhouette of the Pointed Caps, so I prefer those.

Witch Hat Atelier is streaming on Crunchyroll, and season two is in production.

io9 is on the ground at Anime Expo 2026. We’ll be bringing you updates on all the biggest panels, screenings, and announcements, plus exclusive one-on-one interviews with the people behind some of the best and most popular anime around. You can check out all of io9’s Anime Expo coverage here.

Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.

#Witch #Hat #Atelier #Creator #Coco #Star #Anime #Exceeded #ExpectationsAnime,Anime Expo,Bug Films,Kamome Shirahama,Witch Hat Atelier">‘Witch Hat Atelier’ Creator, Coco Star on How the Anime Exceeded Expectations

As far as contemporary anime is concerned, the “big three” fantasy series have finally been christened, thanks to the wondrous arrival of the last in its holy trinity on Crunchyroll: Bug Films’ absolutely magical adaptation of Kamome Shirahama‘s beloved manga, Witch Hat Atelier.

At Anime Expo 2026, io9 got to speak with Shirahama and Coco’s Japanese voice actor, Rena Motomura, about how Bug Films utilized its production delay to deliver an adaptation that honored, and occasionally outshone, the artistry of its source material, what keeps the anime community’s newly adopted daughter so optimistic in an insane world, and whether Pointed Cap witches or Brimmed Caps have the best sense of fashion.

‘Witch Hat Atelier’ Creator, Coco Star on How the Anime Exceeded Expectations As far as contemporary anime is concerned, the “big three” fantasy series have finally been christened, thanks to the wondrous arrival of the last in its holy trinity on Crunchyroll: Bug Films’ absolutely magical adaptation of Kamome Shirahama‘s beloved manga, Witch Hat Atelier. At Anime Expo 2026, io9 got to speak with Shirahama and Coco’s Japanese voice actor, Rena Motomura, about how Bug Films utilized its production delay to deliver an adaptation that honored, and occasionally outshone, the artistry of its source material, what keeps the anime community’s newly adopted daughter so optimistic in an insane world, and whether Pointed Cap witches or Brimmed Caps have the best sense of fashion. Kamome Shirahama’s Brushbuddy. © Isaiah Colbert/io9 Isaiah Colbert, io9: During the anime’s delay, Bug Films announced that certain scenes needed additional time and attention, hoping the anime would be as big as The Lord of the Rings for anime fans. What scenes from this season exceeded your expectations? Rena Motomura: There are so many scenes that exceeded my expectations. But in episode one, at the end, when Coco’s screaming, “Mom,” and then Qifrey takes her up into the sky as the magic is being triggered, they’re skyward and having that moment together—I saw a bit of it in the teaser—but when I saw it in the anime episode, it made me so emotional. I saw exactly how my sensei’s world was being brought to life in anime form, and how the frames were coming together to tell this story. That’s when I knew with great conviction that we were going to have something really special on our hands. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZSGVFk9w5qA[/embed] Kamome Shirahama: This was really talked about a lot, but episode five, for me personally, when I saw it, I was super wowed. It made me really feel like I was watching a film in the theater. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E9URbx38AIY[/embed] io9: Shirahama‑sensei, your live‑tweeting during the broadcast has delighted fans—especially when you pose questions about characters as if you didn’t write them. Which aspects of the anime were your favorites to see realized on screen—and for Motomura‑san, which scenes were the most memorable or rewarding for you to record as Coco? Shirahama: Yeah, for sure. There’s things that you can see in the anime that the manga doesn’t contain—certain elements that make the world more expansive, more brilliant, more rich, and colored. Those are the things I was looking forward to the most. Motomura: For me, it’s the last scene in the dragon maze when Coco has this realization that her actions have put everyone into danger and she’s tearing up, saying, “I’m really sorry that this happened.” Up until that point, she’s been really cheerful. Really sort of outgoing. But then you realize that deep inside her heart, she’s been carrying a lot of this anxiety and worry that’s just piling up. As I was playing the character through the scene, it reminded me of how, through episodes one to three, there must have been a lot of internal thoughts—a lot of anxiety and worry. And that part I empathize with. I started tearing up doing the scene. And even when I look back on it now, I start tearing up. io9: For many, Coco embodies hope and determination, even when the world around her feels overwhelming or insane. How does each of you interpret the way her character maintains that sense of glowing optimism, and what does she represent to you within the story? Shirahama: Coco’s greatest motivation is her love for magic. Even when she faces situations that are fearful or scary, she knows that’s not all there is to magic. And she knows that there’s hope. And she holds on to that hope as her core belief. And that’s what moves her forward. Motomura: Coco has this enormous admiration for magic. I think as long as she holds on to that admiration, she’ll be able to keep moving forward. In the story, I believe her existence is like the mast of a ship. She is a very certain presence in the story, and deep inside her heart—at her core—she holds on to this admiration for magic that’s going to carry everything forward. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jA1sPU4F1n4[/embed] io9: This season introduced a variety of intricate, hand-drawn spells. Of the spells featured so far, which one stands out as your personal favorite, and why? Motomura: For me, it’s the very first spell that Coco came up with for herself—the straight arrow that carries her up into the sky in her time of need as she’s flying upwards. I really felt like this spell was an embodiment of her personality. In this moment, she has nothing. She has no skills, no knowledge, nothing. But she has to do something. So she comes up with this spell to help her get out of a tough situation. The name, too, is super cute. I believe Shirahama-sensei named it 空すっ飛び (sorasuttobi/Skysoaring Seal) in Japanese. Shirahama: For me, it’s the spell that Qifrey casts in episode six when they’re trying to have a picnic in the rain, so he creates this bubble where the rain can’t touch them. I’m so jealous because we get a lot of rain in Japan, and I feel like that would be a great spell to have when you have to walk your dog in the rain. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yu0qoRHqDt8[/embed] io9: If you had to choose—based on fashion alone, no morals at play—would you see yourselves more as the Pointed Cap witches in Witch Hat Atelier or one of the Brimmed Caps? Motomura: Oh! That’s a very difficult question. But personally, I have a bit of an ambition for the Brimmed Caps because ever since I was a child, I thought those kinds of hats were very cool. And then when I came into the world of Witch Hat Atelier, the fact that they cover their face so they can practice forbidden magic, I was like, “Oh, that is so cool.” I know that, morally speaking, as Coco, it’s a questionable answer. But I really like the Brimmed Caps…just as fashion! Shirahama: (Laughs) I feel like the Brimmed Caps might be more popular in a place like California, where you guys get so much sun. For me, personally, I really like the silhouette of the Pointed Caps, so I prefer those. Witch Hat Atelier is streaming on Crunchyroll, and season two is in production. io9 is on the ground at Anime Expo 2026. We’ll be bringing you updates on all the biggest panels, screenings, and announcements, plus exclusive one-on-one interviews with the people behind some of the best and most popular anime around. You can check out all of io9’s Anime Expo coverage here. Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who. #Witch #Hat #Atelier #Creator #Coco #Star #Anime #Exceeded #ExpectationsAnime,Anime Expo,Bug Films,Kamome Shirahama,Witch Hat Atelier
Kamome Shirahama’s Brushbuddy. © Isaiah Colbert/io9

Isaiah Colbert, io9: During the anime’s delay, Bug Films announced that certain scenes needed additional time and attention, hoping the anime would be as big as The Lord of the Rings for anime fans. What scenes from this season exceeded your expectations?

Rena Motomura: There are so many scenes that exceeded my expectations. But in episode one, at the end, when Coco’s screaming, “Mom,” and then Qifrey takes her up into the sky as the magic is being triggered, they’re skyward and having that moment together—I saw a bit of it in the teaser—but when I saw it in the anime episode, it made me so emotional. I saw exactly how my sensei’s world was being brought to life in anime form, and how the frames were coming together to tell this story. That’s when I knew with great conviction that we were going to have something really special on our hands.

Kamome Shirahama: This was really talked about a lot, but episode five, for me personally, when I saw it, I was super wowed. It made me really feel like I was watching a film in the theater.

io9: Shirahama‑sensei, your live‑tweeting during the broadcast has delighted fans—especially when you pose questions about characters as if you didn’t write them. Which aspects of the anime were your favorites to see realized on screen—and for Motomura‑san, which scenes were the most memorable or rewarding for you to record as Coco?

Shirahama: Yeah, for sure. There’s things that you can see in the anime that the manga doesn’t contain—certain elements that make the world more expansive, more brilliant, more rich, and colored. Those are the things I was looking forward to the most.

Motomura: For me, it’s the last scene in the dragon maze when Coco has this realization that her actions have put everyone into danger and she’s tearing up, saying, “I’m really sorry that this happened.” Up until that point, she’s been really cheerful. Really sort of outgoing. But then you realize that deep inside her heart, she’s been carrying a lot of this anxiety and worry that’s just piling up. As I was playing the character through the scene, it reminded me of how, through episodes one to three, there must have been a lot of internal thoughts—a lot of anxiety and worry. And that part I empathize with. I started tearing up doing the scene. And even when I look back on it now, I start tearing up.

io9: For many, Coco embodies hope and determination, even when the world around her feels overwhelming or insane. How does each of you interpret the way her character maintains that sense of glowing optimism, and what does she represent to you within the story?

Shirahama: Coco’s greatest motivation is her love for magic. Even when she faces situations that are fearful or scary, she knows that’s not all there is to magic. And she knows that there’s hope. And she holds on to that hope as her core belief. And that’s what moves her forward.

Motomura: Coco has this enormous admiration for magic. I think as long as she holds on to that admiration, she’ll be able to keep moving forward. In the story, I believe her existence is like the mast of a ship. She is a very certain presence in the story, and deep inside her heart—at her core—she holds on to this admiration for magic that’s going to carry everything forward.

io9: This season introduced a variety of intricate, hand-drawn spells. Of the spells featured so far, which one stands out as your personal favorite, and why?

Motomura: For me, it’s the very first spell that Coco came up with for herself—the straight arrow that carries her up into the sky in her time of need as she’s flying upwards. I really felt like this spell was an embodiment of her personality. In this moment, she has nothing. She has no skills, no knowledge, nothing. But she has to do something. So she comes up with this spell to help her get out of a tough situation. The name, too, is super cute. I believe Shirahama-sensei named it 空すっ飛び (sorasuttobi/Skysoaring Seal) in Japanese.

Shirahama: For me, it’s the spell that Qifrey casts in episode six when they’re trying to have a picnic in the rain, so he creates this bubble where the rain can’t touch them. I’m so jealous because we get a lot of rain in Japan, and I feel like that would be a great spell to have when you have to walk your dog in the rain.

io9: If you had to choose—based on fashion alone, no morals at play—would you see yourselves more as the Pointed Cap witches in Witch Hat Atelier or one of the Brimmed Caps?

Motomura: Oh! That’s a very difficult question. But personally, I have a bit of an ambition for the Brimmed Caps because ever since I was a child, I thought those kinds of hats were very cool. And then when I came into the world of Witch Hat Atelier, the fact that they cover their face so they can practice forbidden magic, I was like, “Oh, that is so cool.” I know that, morally speaking, as Coco, it’s a questionable answer. But I really like the Brimmed Caps…just as fashion!

Shirahama: (Laughs) I feel like the Brimmed Caps might be more popular in a place like California, where you guys get so much sun. For me, personally, I really like the silhouette of the Pointed Caps, so I prefer those.

Witch Hat Atelier is streaming on Crunchyroll, and season two is in production.

io9 is on the ground at Anime Expo 2026. We’ll be bringing you updates on all the biggest panels, screenings, and announcements, plus exclusive one-on-one interviews with the people behind some of the best and most popular anime around. You can check out all of io9’s Anime Expo coverage here.

Want more io9 news? Check out when to expect the latest Marvel, Star Wars, and Star Trek releases, what’s next for the DC Universe on film and TV, and everything you need to know about the future of Doctor Who.

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