TV Asahi's international poll on anime openings has stirred quite the reaction as the selections raised questions about the actual viewing habits of global anime fans. The Twitter account for the special program revealed a list of the top 20 anime openings as voted by 1,740 participants worldwide. The iconic 'A Cruel Angel’s Thesis' from Neon Genesis Evangelion nabbed the top spot, with other recent hits like 'Unravel' from Tokyo Ghoul and 'Gurenge' from Demon Slayer also featuring. However, the list's heavy focus on newer series like Jujutsu Kaisen and Attack on Titan, and the absence of classic anime openings, has led to debate over the breadth of anime viewership among international fans.

What were the criteria for choosing the top anime openings in the TV Asahi poll?

TV Asahi did not explicitly state the criteria, but it appears that the poll relied on the personal preferences of the international fans who participated, which trended towards recent popular anime series.

Neon Genesis Evangelion, which topped the list with its opening 'A Cruel Angel’s Thesis,' is not only known for its influential opening theme but also for its significant impact on the mecha genre and its deep exploration of complex themes. As one of the most critically acclaimed and influential anime of all time, its presence at the top of the poll reflects its enduring popularity and the lasting impression it has made on fans around the world.