Experiencing an anime reference outside its originating series can be a delightful surprise for fans. Certain shows and memorable moments from series like Naruto, Dragon Ball Z, and Pokémon have become so iconic that they often make their way into other productions, including Western television and films. Including an anime cameo doesn’t require much effort; sometimes, it merely takes a fleeting appearance in the background to celebrate the genre.
These brief cameos can be so subtle that viewers might miss them on the first watch. Instead of overshadowing the main storyline, a well-placed anime reference appears on screen for just a few frames, which is perfect for dedicated anime fans who can spot a familiar Scout Uniform from Attack on Titan blending into their favorite shows.
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Arale from Dr. Slump in Dragon Ball Super
Episode 69 – Goku vs Arale! Earth Ends in a Wacky Battle?!
Akira Toriyama is synonymous with the Dragon Ball franchise, but few fans realize that Goku was not Toriyama’s first creation. One of his earlier series, Dr. Slump, features the protagonist Arale, who shares many traits with Goku. Both characters display a nearly indestructible nature, a great sense of humor, and an infectious smile.
In Dragon Ball Super, Arale’s appearance is nothing short of spectacular; her power level defies what many Dragon Ball characters can handle. As a comedic addition to the franchise, her battles with Goku are both entertaining and nostalgic, paying tribute to Toriyama’s earlier work.
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The Simpsons Tribute to Miyazaki
Season 25, Episode 10 – Married to the Blob
Studio Ghibli is widely regarded as one of Japan’s finest animation studios, renowned for films such as My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, and Ponyo. Similarly, The Simpsons stands as a monumental figure in entertainment, spanning decades of comedy. In the episode “Married to the Blob,”The Simpsons creatively references the rich legacy of Hayao Miyazaki and his films.
Throughout its history, the series has included numerous anime references, with this particular episode showcasing familiar characters like the Cat Bus from My Neighbor Totoro. As Homer navigates Springfield, numerous cameos from Spirited Away and other Ghibli classics abound, establishing a jovial tribute to one of the most influential animation studios in the world.
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Attack on Titan in Osomatsu-san (Mr. Osomatsu)
Episode 1 – Osomatsu-kun Returns!
Attack on Titan captured global attention upon its release over a decade ago, following the gripping story of Eren Yeager against the monstrous Titans. Its popularity has spurred numerous references throughout the anime landscape, including in the comedic series Osomatsu San. The first episode of this series features a humorous nod to Attack on Titan, instantly recognizable to fans.
Characters dressed as Survey Corps members attempt to protect the city from a figure resembling the Colossal Titan, creating a quick and humorous moment that perfectly encapsulates the iconic attributes of both series.
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JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure in Food Wars!
Season 2, Episode 2 – Blending Light and Shadow
Food Wars! is known for its over-the-top culinary battles and eccentric characters. Early in its second season, the series humorously incorporates a cameo from the beloved JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, mimicking the iconic Stand battles that fans adore. Viewers watch as characters emulate JoJo’s distinctive stylish poses while engaging in their own cooking challenges.
This playful homage not only showcases the humor of Food Wars! but also pays respect to the beloved JoJo franchise, making it a noteworthy moment for fans of both series.
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Jujutsu Kaisen’s Yuji Itadori Wants to Do a Shōnen Attack
Episode 6 – After the Rain
As one of the standout shōnen series of recent years, Jujutsu Kaisen masterfully balances humor, heartwrenching moments, and action. Main character Yuji Itadori’s transformation from an ordinary student to a powerful Jujutsu sorcerer is engaging, particularly when he discusses potential moves inspired by legendary shōnen series.
In a lighthearted moment, Yuji muses about utilizing moves like the Rasengan from Naruto or the Kamehameha from Dragon Ball Z. Although he learns that replicating these abilities isn’t possible, the scene offers comic relief and further endears him to the audience.
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Naruto in Assassination Classroom
Episode 6 – Test Time
Assassination Classroom strikes a balance between humor and serious themes, especially in the episode where Koro-sensei assists his students with studying. With his incredible speed, he cleverly puts on various headbands resembling those from the Hidden Leaf Village in Naruto.
This brief yet delightful homage serves as a memorable moment for fans and adds a layer of humor during a light-hearted scene.
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Neon Genesis in a Robin Williams Movie
One Hour Photo
Neon Genesis Evangelion has left an indelible mark on the anime world, inviting viewers to contemplate complex themes and existential questions. A surprising cameo occurs in the Robin Williams film One Hour Photo, when a child expresses a desire to purchase a toy from the series.
The humorous misunderstanding between the child and Williams’ character — who naively refer to an EVA unit as a hero — adds a layer of comedic depth and demonstrates even mainstream cinema’s acknowledgment of this anime classic.
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Yamcha’s Death Pose
In Multiple Series
Yamcha’s iconic death pose from Dragon Ball Z remains one of the most recognizable anime references across various series. This meme has appeared in numerous other titles, including Bocchi the Rock!, Tower of God, and even Naruto. The pose typically features a character dramatically downed from an explosion, striking a memorable pose that has become synonymous with over-the-top anime moments.
Often considered the Wilhelm Scream of anime, Yamcha’s pose is so fun, iconic, and easily recognizable that it routinely provides comic relief in various contexts. References have even emerged in high-profile projects like the trailer for the latest Superman film, highlighting its widespread appeal.
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The Akira Bike Slide
Multiple Movies and Series
Akira is celebrated as one of the greatest anime films of all time. This 1988 cyberpunk masterpiece, adapted from Katsuhiro Otomo’s manga, is not only renowned for its storytelling but also for its groundbreaking animation. Among its many impressive scenes, the bike slide performed by Kaneda stands out as the most iconic.
The influence of this bike slide reverberates throughout animation and film, referenced in shows like Adventure Time, One Piece, and Pokémon, along with high-budget films such as Nope and Sonic the Hedgehog 3. Few moments have captured the essence of anime and resonated with fans quite like the legendary bike slide from Akira.
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