Already, nuki nuki zupposism episode 1 has spawned a small but dedicated subculture. Fan art proliferates on platforms like DeviantArt and Pixiv. Memes based on specific scenes—the exploding refrigerator, the crying VHS tapes, Zuppo’s riddles—are circulating widely. A Discord server dedicated to decoding the show’s “hidden meaning” has amassed over 10,000 members.
Interestingly, the show has also found an audience among people who don’t typically watch anime. Its absurdist humor appeals to fans of adult swim shows like Rick and Morty or The Eric Andre Show. It’s the kind of content that works equally well as background noise, a conversation starter, or a deep-dive analysis project.
Merchandise is already appearing, though it’s unclear if it’s officially licensed. T-shirts featuring Nuki’s confused face and the phrase “You are the soup now” are selling on Etsy. A plush toy of the talking refrigerator is reportedly in development.
