Anime Expo 2021 Cancels In-Person Events, Goes Virtual Only
March 4, 2021
Anime Expo 2021 is following San Diego Comic-Con’s lead and opting for a virtual event in 2021. Ray Chiang, CEO of The Society for the Promotion of Japanese Animation, released a statement on Wednesday to break the news to fans, merchants, and marketers.
“With the continued uncertainties surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, it is apparent that we will not be able to safely hold a physical show this July for Anime Expo 2021,” Chiang said in an open letter to the community. “We will miss gearing up for a full weekend of parading around the LACC and reuniting with friends just as much as you will, but we take comfort in knowing this separation is only temporary and that it’s the right thing to do. While we’re not able to meet in-person, we still want to celebrate 2021 in honor of our 30th anniversary, and we will continue to share stories, photos, and memories with #AnimeExpo30th!”