Cosplayer Nelly (넬리) joined Anime Diet to share her reflections on Anime Expo 2026. Following her appearance at the convention, she connected with us via e-mail.
Nelly Explores Anime Expo 2026
Michael: Anime Expo brings together fans and cosplayers from all over the world. How was your experience at Anime Expo 2026, and what moments from the convention stand out most in your memory?
Nelly: The most impressive thing about attending this event for the first time was the tall glass windows in the South Hall lobby! The view of the sunlight streaming in in the morning was very beautiful! Also, it was fun to watch so many people wearing T-shirts or jackets featuring their favorite characters! The most memorable moments of the event were interacting directly with many people at the various event zones and creating memories together!
Michael: Many fans admire not only your cosplay itself, but also the personality and emotion you bring to each character. When choosing a new cosplay project, what qualities in a character inspire you the most?
Nelly: I place the utmost importance on a character’s impression! Characters are often remembered solely by their appearance. That is why I strive to capture the atmosphere and facial impression as much as possible in my cosplay!
Michael: One of the wonderful things about cosplay is the way it connects people from different countries and cultures through a shared passion. As someone who has met fans from around the world, what have you enjoyed most about being part of the international cosplay community?
Nelly: I was so happy to become friends with people from various cultures through the animations and games they love, and to enjoy them together as one! It was an honor to do challenges and capture memories with cameras with the people at the booth on-site, feeling like we had become friends!
Representing Smilegate’s MIRESI
Michael: This year you appeared as an official cosplayer at Smilegate’s MIRESI booth during Anime Expo. Official booth appearances give cosplayers a unique opportunity to interact with fans throughout the convention. What did you enjoy most about helping bring the world of MIRESI to life and meeting everyone who stopped by the booth?
Nelly: I think the most enjoyable part was the challenge, being able to interact with so many people! It was also fun high-fiving as soon as it ended! Personally, I was very grateful to those who remembered and mentioned the characters I had previously cosplayed, such as Sharkry and Waguri!
Michael: Finally, do you have a message for everyone who came to meet you at Anime Expo 2026, as well as for Anime Diet readers and your fans around the world who continue to support your work?
Nelly: It was so nice and I was so happy to meet you all! Thanks to all of you enjoying the event with such passion, I also left with wonderful memories! I hope you always stay healthy and enjoy your hobbies!
