ABEMA, the new future of television, is currently streaming a huge lineup of popular anime, from beloved classics to the hottest new series. In honor of January 16th, known as “Hero Day” due to the wordplay “Hi (1) – (1) Ro (6)”, we’re highlighting three fantastic hero anime you can watch right now on ABEMA, all featuring iconic heroes in action.
Featured Heroes
Boku no Hero Academia
Commonly nicknamed “Hiroaka”, Boku no Hero Academia is a superhero action anime based on the popular manga by Horikoshi Kouhei, serialized in Shueisha’s “Weekly Shounen Jump”. The story is set in a world where superpowers, known as “Quirks”, have become commonplace. It follows the journey of Midoriya Izuku, a Quirkless boy who dreams of becoming a hero. We watch as he grows and trains alongside his companions at U.A. High School.
The series has masterfully explored what it means to be a hero through intense school life, unbreakable bonds of friendship, and relentless battles against Villains. The TV anime ran for eight seasons, concluding on December 13, 2025, to the heartfelt farewell of fans. Having delivered countless dramatic moments and epic clashes, it stands as a代表作 (representative work) of the hero genre, earning massive support and moving audiences worldwide.
One Punch Man
One Punch Man is a superhero action anime based on the manga of the same name, with original work by ONE and art by Murata Yuusuke, serialized in Shueisha’s “Tonari no Young Jump”. It centers on the daily life of Saitama, a casually overpowered hero who can defeat any foe with a single punch, and the exploits of other heroes who confront mysterious monsters.
A key feature of this series is its vast array of unique characters and the perfect blend of comedy with spectacular, high-octane battles. The TV anime has aired three seasons so far, and its unique worldview, built around a protagonist with absurd,常识外れ (common sense-defying) strength, makes it a standout title that enjoys immense popularity within the hero genre.
Kagaku Ninja Tai Gatchaman
Kagaku Ninja Tai Gatchaman (which can be translated as “Science Ninja Team Gatchaman”) is a TV anime produced by Tatsunoko Pro that first aired in 1972. It depicts the fight of five youths, led by the Eagle of the team, Ken, who are trained by Dr. Nambu to become the Science Ninja Team and oppose the secret society Gallactor, which seeks world domination using advanced science.
The show’s major appeals are its portrayal of heroes who weaponize teamwork, and the thrilling action sequences that utilize a mix of cutting-edge technology, ninjutsu, and various mecha. The weighty drama depicting the team’s bonds and internal conflicts has also left a lasting impression, cementing its status as a beloved masterpiece that continues to be talked about by fans to this day.
So this January 16th, “Hero Day”, why not dive into the thrilling stories of these distinctive heroes? Enjoy the tales of struggle and triumph in Boku no Hero Academia, One Punch Man, and Kagaku Ninja Tai Gatchaman.
(C) Horikoshi Kouhei / Shueisha・Boku no Hero Academia Production Committee
(C) ONE・Murata Yuusuke / Shueisha・Hero Association HQ
(C) Tatsunoko Pro
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