Sanrio's annual character ranking contest has returned for its 39th edition, inviting millions of fans to participate in one of the year's most anticipated polls. The official Sanrio X account announced the opening of the contest, signaling the start of voting on April 11 with the theme "All we need is mutual love and thanks." Fans can cast their votes for their favorite characters from April 11 to May 26, contributing to the rankings that will shape the future of Sanrio's beloved characters.

The contest typically garners immense attention from fans worldwide, with characters like Cinnamoroll and Pompompurin consistently ranking among the most popular. In the previous year's vote, Cinnamoroll emerged as the frontrunner with an impressive 4.38 million votes, closely followed by Pompompurin and Kuromi. Hello Kitty, an enduring icon of the Sanrio universe, secured the fifth position with 2.50 million votes. In the United States, Cinnamoroll, Kuromi, and Pompompurin dominated the top three spots.

With each passing year, the number of participants in the ranking contest continues to rise, reflecting Sanrio's enduring appeal and influence as a global intellectual property powerhouse. The outcome of the 2024 ranking is expected to have a significant impact on future Sanrio character tie-ins and collaborations. In light of recent announcements discontinuing certain characters due to waning popularity, there's speculation that new mascots may emerge or lesser-known characters could step into the spotlight.

Sanrio's 50th anniversary celebrations for Hello Kitty have been marked by exciting collaborations and promotions, further cementing its status as a cultural phenomenon. From clothing partnerships with Uniqlo to exclusive glassware sets with JoyJolt, Hello Kitty continues to captivate audiences across generations. Additionally, Sanrio characters will be featured in a McDonald's Happy Meal promotion this month, underscoring the enduring appeal and versatility of these beloved characters.

As fans eagerly await the results of the 2024 character ranking contest, Sanrio's legacy of creativity, imagination, and mutual appreciation continues to thrive, inspiring joy and camaraderie around the world.

Source: Sanrio via X (formerly Twitter)