In 2025, cosplay continues to be one of the top forms of expression for passionate anime and pop culture fans on social media and throughout the industry. From conventions, meetups to viral celebrity recreations, original cosplay remained at the forefront of fandom culture.
Together, the community shared its love for each other’s beautiful creations, but it also experienced its share of grief and heartache.
Ash, a 19-year-old cosplayer recognized online as squidkid1111, passed away in November 2025 after experiencing cyberbullying and hatred online. Communities on social media came together to uplift Ash’s legacy of cosplay that will be remembered as unapologetically unique and undeniably captivating.
Black and other creators of color often experience a slew of backlash from angry netizens for simply bringing their favorite book, anime or video game characters to life. In an effort to continue to recognize greatness within this community, the CXM Media team developed this list of up-and-coming cosplayers and their amazing cosplays.
Up-and-coming Cosplayers
Winner of the Masters award at the Dreamcon cosplay competition, Nerdy Builds brought Rajang armor to life from Monster Hunter. His work is eye-catching and draws you in the moment you see him on the stage or walking through the con. “The love from fellow nerds, builders, and anime fans was unreal...this community is pure magic,” he said.
Amethysterious shared her nostalgic Gamecube controller cosplay with Cxmmunity at events around Atlanta. Her magnetic energy and love for cosplay shined as won cosplay of the night during The Kickback, but she shares many original creations through her instagram and with her community.
Manny Moon’s corpse bride turned heads and broke necks! The artistry in the execution of the makeup down to the bone leg in this image just adds the perfect touches to this elegant Emily cosplay. In addition to their cosplay, they also create content as a streamer playing variety games with their community.
Mega Mite presented Belle at 2025’s Dreamcon cosplay competition and won the award for Best in Show. All beauty with no beast, she highlighted her intricate craftsmanship building everything from the corset to the petticoat.
By far, this Piccolo is one of the best we’ve seen. The cosplay is stunning, and the photos captured for its reveal truly show the creativity of Cheheaven. Named one of the kids cosplayers for Blerdcon 2026, Cheheaven shares her favorite characters online and shows the versatility of cosplaying with her locs.
BigCreatxr’s own Bunnygirlshay nailed the sweet and chaotic beauty that is Harley Quinn. A streamer that shares her love of One Piece with the BunniiGang, Shay collaborates with her community on events and content.
Other CXM Cosplay Favorites
Evensyaxo as HIM from The Powerpuff Girls
Cutiepiesensei as Elphaba on the Wicked: For Good red carpet premiere
Khleo Thomas as the Phoenix King Namor in Marvel Rivals
Rinnegoddess as Malevola
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