In a surprising move that has sent ripples through the anime community, Crunchyroll has announced the cancellation of Onyx Equinox, one of its most popular original series. The show, which had carved out a niche for itself with its unique Mesoamerican setting and rich mythological tapestry, will not be returning for a second season, leaving fans with unresolved storylines and a sense of what could have been.
The decision to cancel Onyx Equinox comes as a shock to many, especially considering the show’s growing fanbase and critical acclaim. Created by Sofia Alexander, the series was praised for its bold storytelling, diverse characters, and its commitment to cultural authenticity, setting it apart from the typical anime offerings.
The Rise and Fall of Onyx Equinox
Credit: Crunchyroll
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A Culturally Rich Narrative
#onyxequinox #onyxequinoxs2 #animacionmexicana pic.twitter.com/LnNW1CwuMG
— Sofia E. Alexander (@sofiaealexander) November 5, 2023
Onyx Equinox stood out in Crunchyroll’s catalogue for its deep dive into the myths and legends of ancient Mesoamerica. The show followed the journey of a young boy named Izel, chosen to represent humanity in a bet between the gods, and tasked with closing the five gates of the underworld.
Critical Acclaim and Fan Reaction
Despite a somewhat slow start, Onyx Equinox quickly gained traction for its mature themes and complex character development. Fans lauded the show for its willingness to tackle dark subjects and its representation of indigenous cultures, which is rarely seen in mainstream anime.
Crunchyroll’s Original Content Strategy
Credit: Crunchyroll
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Expanding Beyond Licensed Anime
Crunchyroll has been expanding its horizons beyond just licensing popular anime from Japan. In recent years, the platform has invested in original content, aiming to offer a diverse range of stories and styles to its subscribers.
The Uncertain Future of Originals
The cancellation of Onyx Equinox raises questions about the future of Crunchyroll’s original content strategy. With the platform now under the umbrella of Sony and merging with Funimation, the direction and priorities for original series may be shifting.
The Industry’s Response
Credit: Crunchyroll
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Creator Sofia Alexander’s Statement
Sofia Alexander took to Twitter to express her disappointment and gratitude towards the fans of the show. Her heartfelt message underscored the passion and hard work that went into creating the series.
The Anime Community’s Reaction
The news of the cancellation has been met with an outpouring of support for the creator and the show from the anime community. Fans have been vocal on social media, sharing their favourite moments and what the series meant to them.
What’s Next for Crunchyroll and Anime Fans
Credit: Crunchyroll
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The Search for New Originals
Crunchyroll may be closing the chapter on Onyx Equinox, but the search for the next hit original series continues. The platform has a slate of upcoming shows that it hopes will capture the imagination of viewers worldwide.
The Legacy of Onyx Equinox
Onyx Equinox may have had its run cut short, but its impact on the anime landscape will not be forgotten. The series has set a precedent for cultural diversity and storytelling depth that future Crunchyroll originals will be measured against.
Final Thoughts on Crunchyroll Cancelling Onyx Equinox
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The cancellation of Onyx Equinox is a reminder of the volatile nature of the entertainment industry, where not all stories get to be fully told. While the series will not continue on Crunchyroll, the legacy it leaves behind is one of innovation, representation, and the power of storytelling. Fans can only hope that the platform will take the lessons learned from Onyx Equinox and apply them to future projects, continuing to push the boundaries of what anime can be.
As the dust settles on this unexpected news, the anime community will keep a watchful eye on Crunchyroll’s next moves. With the promise of new originals on the horizon, there is still hope for more groundbreaking content that can fill the void left by Onyx Equinox.
What do you make of this news? Are you sad to hear that Crunchyroll has cancelled Onyx Equinox?
You can still stream the series on Crunchyroll right now.
