Celebs Who Used Anime References in Political Speeches

The intersection of pop culture and political discourse has seen a surprising rise in the use of Japanese animation as a rhetorical tool. High profile figures and celebrities are increasingly turning to the themes and imagery of popular series to communicate their messages to a wider audience. From metaphors of justice and rebellion to the simple use of recognizable characters for engagement these references serve as a unique bridge between entertainment and governance. This list explores the diverse group of individuals who have brought anime into the spotlight of political and public advocacy. These instances highlight how the values found in these stories can resonate far beyond the world of animation.

Gabriel Boric

Gabriel Boric became the President of Chile and quickly gained international attention for his public appreciation of ‘Pokemon’ during his campaign. He was presented with a plush toy of the character Squirtle by a Japanese official which he accepted during a formal diplomatic exchange. Boric has referenced the values of friendship and community found in the series when speaking about his vision for a unified Chile. His willingness to embrace these references has helped him build a strong connection with youth activists across the country. This integration of Japanese pop culture into his public persona serves as a tool for soft power and cultural diplomacy.

Manuel Castro

New York City Council Member Manuel Castro used his official capacity to honor the creator of ‘One Piece’ during a public ceremony. He spoke about the profound impact that the series has had on immigrant communities and their search for belonging. Castro highlighted how the narrative of the Straw Hat Pirates mirrors the resilience of those seeking a better life in the United States. During his speech he emphasized that these stories provide a universal language of hope and rebellion against oppression. By bringing ‘One Piece’ into the municipal legislative record he validated the cultural importance of anime for millions of New Yorkers.

Emmanuel Macron

President Emmanuel Macron of France utilized the popularity of ‘One Piece’ to strengthen diplomatic ties during the Tokyo Olympics. He met with the creator of the series and shared a personalized illustration on his official channels to engage with the global fan base. Macron has spoken about the importance of creative industries and specifically noted the cultural weight of Japanese animation in France. His public statements often frame these artistic exports as a bridge between different national identities and a shared global heritage. This strategic use of anime references helps the French leader project a modern and culturally savvy image on the world stage.

Maxwell Frost

Maxwell Frost is the first Gen Z member of Congress and has often cited ‘One Piece’ as a source of inspiration for his political activism. He has spoken in public forums about the ways in which the series explores themes of systemic injustice and the power of grassroots organizing. Frost relates the camaraderie of the main characters to the coalition building necessary for modern social movements. He uses these references to explain complex political concepts to his peers and to build a sense of shared purpose. His mentions of anime serve as a tool for political education and a way to make the legislative process feel more accessible.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has utilized references to ‘Sailor Moon’ and ‘Neon Genesis Evangelion’ to connect with her audience during live streams and public sessions. She has discussed the themes of female empowerment and collective action found in these shows in the context of her own political struggles. During her public appearances she often uses the imagery of these series to frame her advocacy for social and economic reform. Her ability to weave these cultural touchstones into her political messaging has made her a prominent figure among younger voters. These references help her communicate the idea that political change requires the same bravery seen in heroic narratives.

Samuel L. Jackson

Samuel L. Jackson is a legendary actor who has used his public influence to support various political causes and has never hidden his love for anime. He has participated in voter registration drives where he famously mentioned his appreciation for ‘Afro Samurai’ and ‘Ninja Scroll’ as part of his public persona. Jackson has used his voice to narrate political advertisements and often brings his characteristic energy and cultural interests to these roles. He has spoken about how the storytelling techniques in anime can be used to deliver powerful messages about justice and morality. His crossover between the world of animation and political advocacy has made him a unique voice in the entertainment industry.

Megan Thee Stallion

Megan Thee Stallion is a global superstar who has integrated her passion for ‘Naruto’ into her public advocacy for mental health and social justice. During her performances and public statements she often references the character Rock Lee as a symbol of hard work and overcoming adversity. She has used her platform to discuss how the resilience of anime characters inspires her to stay focused on her political and social goals. In various interviews and public appearances she has framed her activism through the lens of the shonen spirit which emphasizes growth and protection of the community. Her use of these references has helped normalize the intersection of anime culture and political empowerment.

Michael B. Jordan

Michael B. Jordan has frequently spoken about his love for ‘Naruto’ and ‘Dragon Ball Z’ while advocating for increased representation in the film and political sectors. He has used the themes of these series to explain the importance of mentorship and building a legacy for the next generation. Jordan has incorporated anime inspired elements into his public projects and uses his speeches to highlight the universal appeal of these stories. He believes that the values of perseverance and inner strength found in anime are essential for anyone fighting for social change. His advocacy often highlights how these narratives can empower individuals to become heroes in their own communities.

Ye

Kanye West has made numerous references to ‘Akira’ during his public appearances and his foray into presidential politics. He has described the film as a major influence on his creative vision and his understanding of power and technology in society. During his campaign events he often spoke in broad philosophical terms that mirrored the dystopian themes found in classic anime. West has used his platform to argue that the aesthetic and narrative depth of Japanese animation should be a standard for all creative endeavors. His public fascination with the genre has often bled into his political commentary regarding the future of humanity.

Pharrell Williams

Pharrell Williams has been a vocal advocate for educational reform and has often used his love for ‘Neon Genesis Evangelion’ to describe his creative process and public mission. He has spoken about the complexity of the series and how it reflects the challenges of the modern world in his public addresses. Pharrell uses his influence to support political candidates who prioritize the arts and has integrated anime inspired visuals into his advocacy campaigns. He views the genre as a way to challenge traditional thinking and to inspire a new generation of innovators. His speeches often emphasize that the fusion of culture and technology is the key to solving societal issues.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe has used the aesthetic of ‘Sailor Moon’ and other anime to craft a public persona focused on liberation and identity politics. During her speeches at political rallies she has emphasized the need for a revolution of love that mirrors the magical girl genre focus on collective power. She often frames her advocacy for civil rights through the lens of science fiction and animation. Monáe argues that these stories allow us to imagine a more equitable and diverse future. Her performances and public statements are designed to empower marginalized voices by drawing on the heroic tropes of Japanese animation.

Usher

Usher has participated in several political campaigns and has mentioned his appreciation for ‘Dragon Ball Z’ as a way to connect with younger fans during rallies. He has spoken about the importance of finding one inner strength and using it to make a positive impact on the world. During his appearances for various candidates he has used metaphors related to training and growth that are common in the shonen genre. Usher believes that the energy and passion of youth culture can be harnessed for significant political change. His references to anime serve as a bridge to engage voters who might otherwise feel disconnected from the political process.

Lizzo

Lizzo has frequently used her platform to advocate for body positivity and political engagement while referencing ‘Sailor Moon’ as a major influence. She has appeared in costumes inspired by the series during public performances and has spoken about the importance of self love in her speeches. Lizzo relates the transformation sequences in the show to the personal growth and empowerment of her fans. She uses these references to make her political messages about inclusivity and justice more relatable and vibrant. Her public advocacy is characterized by a blend of pop culture joy and serious social critique.

Ariana Grande

Ariana Grande has a well documented love for ‘Spirited Away’ and has used her massive social media following to drive voter registration and political awareness. She has referenced the works of Studio Ghibli in her public statements about the environment and the need for compassion in society. During her advocacy for various social causes she has emphasized the themes of resilience and discovery found in Miyazaki films. Grande uses her influence to encourage her fans to take an active role in shaping the political landscape. Her references to anime help create a shared cultural language with her global audience.

Thundercat

The musician Thundercat is a known anime enthusiast who often brings his love for ‘Dragon Ball Z’ into his public commentary on culture and politics. He has spoken about how the series influenced his work ethic and his perspective on personal development during interviews and public panels. Thundercat uses his platform to support social justice initiatives and often incorporates anime imagery into his advocacy materials. He believes that the themes of struggle and triumph in animation are deeply relevant to the current political climate. His public presence serves as a reminder of the deep connection between artistic passion and civic responsibility.

John Fetterman

Senator John Fetterman has utilized public messaging that occasionally leans into the visual style of ‘Fullmetal Alchemist’ to criticize his political opponents. His campaign team has used memes and references that resonate with the internet fluent demographic to make his points more effectively. Fetterman has spoken about the need for a government that works for everyone and has used the idea of equivalent exchange as a metaphor for fair policy. His approach to political communication often blends blue collar sensibilities with a modern understanding of digital culture. This strategy has helped him build a unique brand that stands out in the crowded political landscape.

Bernie Sanders

While Bernie Sanders himself may not be a frequent watcher of the genre his campaign has leaned heavily into anime inspired memes featuring ‘Akira’ to mobilize young voters. These cultural references have been used in digital speeches and town halls to frame his political revolution as a movement for the future. The imagery of Sanders as a protagonist in a high stakes struggle has become a staple of online political discourse. These references help distill complex policy goals into powerful and recognizable visual narratives. This grassroots adoption of anime themes has played a significant role in his ability to maintain a strong youth following.

Hillary Clinton

During her 2016 presidential campaign Hillary Clinton famously made a reference to ‘Pokemon Go’ during a speech to encourage voter turnout. She told the crowd that she wanted to figure out how to get voters to use the application to go to the polls which became a viral political moment. Although it was a reference to a game the broader cultural connection to the ‘Pokemon’ franchise was unmistakable. The line was an attempt to show that her campaign was in touch with the latest trends and to engage a younger audience. This moment is often cited as a key example of a high profile politician using an anime based franchise for tactical outreach.

Elon Musk

Elon Musk has frequently used his massive platform to comment on politics and has regularly posted memes from ‘Fullmetal Alchemist’ and ‘Death Note’. He has spoken about his admiration for the complex world building and philosophical questions posed by these series. Musk often uses these references to frame his views on technology and the future of governance. His public statements frequently blend his business goals with a futuristic vision that seems inspired by cyberpunk anime. By engaging with this culture he has positioned himself as a disruptive figure who challenges traditional political and social norms.

Justin Trudeau

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has acknowledged the cultural importance of anime during diplomatic meetings and public events celebrating international relations. He has spoken about the popularity of series like ‘Naruto’ and ‘One Piece’ among youth as a sign of shared cultural interests. Trudeau has used these references to emphasize the strength of international ties and the importance of the creative economy. His public statements often highlight how animation can be a tool for mutual understanding and cooperation between nations. By recognizing these trends he portrays his leadership as welcoming and globally connected.

Please share your favorite instance of a public figure mentioning an anime series in the comments.