Unwrap the Holidays with These Black Anime Favorites
The holiday season is a time for reflection, connection, and finding meaning beyond the material. While many gravitate toward classic holiday specials, let’s take a moment to appreciate Black anime stories that go deeper—challenging perspectives, celebrating culture, and highlighting resilience. These picks bring a fresh take to the holiday spirit, showing that Christmas is about more than just gifts under a tree.
Huey’s Christmas Episode (The Boondocks: A Huey Freeman Christmas)
What happens when you put one of the most socially aware kid in TV history in charge of a school Christmas play? You get one of the most memorable anime Christmas episodes made. In A Huey Freeman Christmas, Huey challenges the sanitized narrative of Christmas by tackling the perspective of white Jesus, a topic rarely discussed on mainstream television—especially 19 years ago, when this episode aired.
Huey’s decision to present Jesus as Black wasn’t just an artistic choice—it was a deliberate critique of the Eurocentric lens through which history and religion are often viewed. It’s bold, unapologetic, and deeply layered with historical context. Creator Aaron McGruder later doubled down on this theme by creating the series Black Jesus, showing his commitment to challenging these long-standing narratives.
This episode isn’t just about the holiday season; it’s about reclaiming stories and perspectives that have been erased or misrepresented. Huey’s critical lens reminds us that Christmas can be a time for truth, reflection, and reimagining traditions in a way that speaks to everyone.
Where to Watch: The Boondocks is available on HBO Max.
The Boondocks: "A Huey Freeman Christmas," animated by Madhouse and produced by Adelaide Productions. Aired on Adult Swim.
“God Only Knows” (Carole & Tuesday: Part 1 Finale)
There’s something magical about music during the holidays—it’s a universal language that brings people together. In Carole & Tuesday’s part one finale, the duo performs "God Only Knows," a soulful anthem of hope, unity, and perseverance.
Set in a futuristic world divided by technology, class, and politics, this episode shows how creativity can break down barriers. Carole, a Black girl from humble beginnings, and Tuesday, a sheltered rich girl, create music that transcends their differences and touches everyone who hears it.
This performance isn’t just about the characters—it’s about the power of connection. In a time when division feels overwhelming, this story reminds us that unity, love, and shared creativity can make all the difference. It’s the kind of holiday spirit we all need, wrapped in a melody that lingers long after the episode ends.
Where to Watch: Carole & Tuesday is streaming on Netflix.
Carole & Tuesday: "A Change is Gonna Come," produced by Bones Studio. Available on Netflix.
Michiko & Hatchin: Episode 11 – "Starting Line Downpour"
Christmas isn’t always cheerful for everyone—it can be a time of longing, loss, and survival. This is especially true in Michiko & Hatchin, where the bond between Michiko and Hatchin serves as the heart of the story.
In Episode 11, the two navigate the harsh realities of their world, with Hatchin reflecting on her past filled with neglect and trauma. Michiko’s relentless determination to protect her is both touching and symbolic of the season's deeper themes: love, family, and resilience.
What sets this episode apart is how it ties themes of child exploitation and human trafficking into the narrative, shedding light on issues that are often overlooked. Yet even amidst the darkness, there’s hope. Christmas becomes a metaphor for finding light in the darkest of times, celebrating what you have, and fighting for those you love.
Where to Watch: Michiko & Hatchin is available on Crunchyroll.
Michiko & Hatchin: "The Chocolate Girl in Love," produced by Manglobe Studio. Aired on Fuji TV's Noitamina Block.
Neo Yokio: Pink Christmas
If you’re looking for a holiday special that’s as eccentric as it is thought-provoking, Neo Yokio: Pink Christmas is the perfect pick.
In this satirical and stylish take on the season, Kaz Kaan wrestles with the emptiness of materialism during the holidays. While his world is dripping in luxury and privilege, the special digs into the idea that wealth and possessions don’t bring true happiness.
What makes this special unique is its humor and sharp critique of consumer culture—a fitting theme for a time of year often overshadowed by commercialism. But beneath its quirky surface, Pink Christmas delivers a heartfelt reminder that the holiday season is about relationships, gratitude, and rethinking what truly matters.
Where to Watch: Neo Yokio is streaming on Netflix.
Make it stand out
Neo Yokio: Pink Christmas (2018), produced by Production I.G. Distributed by Netflix.
Why These Stories Matter
These Black anime episodes and specials don’t just celebrate Christmas—they challenge it. They make us reflect on traditions, confront uncomfortable truths, and appreciate the joy found in unexpected places. From Huey’s bold critique of history to Michiko & Hatchin’s raw resilience, these stories bring depth and richness to the holiday season.
So, as you cozy up this Christmas, add these picks to your watchlist. They’ll leave you inspired, reflective, and ready to celebrate the holidays in your own way.