Paru Itagaki, the acclaimed creator of BEASTARS, returns with a bold and offbeat new anime titled SANDA, an unconventional Santa Claus action series adapted from her original manga. Produced by Science SARU (DAN DA DAN, Scott Pilgrim Takes Off), SANDA is set in a dystopian near-future Japan where extreme child protection laws exist to combat a super-declining birthrate. The TV anime will premiere in Japan on October 3, 2025, with a world premiere event scheduled for Anime Expo 2025 in Los Angeles.
Anime Expo 2025 will host the global debut of SANDA on July 4 at the JW Marriott’s Platinum Ballroom. The special event will include a screening of the anime’s first episode, a live drawing session with Paru Itagaki, scene commentary, a Q&A with the creative team, and a guest message from lead voice actor Ayumu Murase, who plays the title role. Attendees will also receive an exclusive SANDA-themed towel.
Joining Itagaki at the event are director Tomohisa Shimoyama and producer Kohei Sakita of Science SARU. The anime’s storyline follows protagonist Kazushige Sanda, a boy living in a society where children are scarce, and Santa Claus has become a hidden, sealed-away figure. Sanda’s journey begins when his connection to Santa is awakened in a world that has forgotten him.
The second teaser PV for the series has also been released, introducing a cast of Sanda’s classmates at Daikoku Welfare Academy. In a world dominated by overprotection and state-mandated adult responsibilities, the trailer raises key questions: how is Santa Claus perceived in an age without children, and what role will Sanda play in uncovering buried truths?
The new cast includes Umeka Shoji as Shiori Fuyumura, a towering classmate who seeks Sanda’s help to rescue her missing friend. Anna Nagase voices Ichie Ono, the vanished best friend at the center of the mystery. Yuuki Shin plays Hitoshi Amaya, Sanda’s enigmatic roommate, and Misato Matsuoka voices Nico Kazao, Sanda’s government-assigned fiancée.
Cast Comments
Shiori Fuyumura (Voiced by Umeka Shoji) –
A 14-year-old classmate of Sanda who stands over 182 cm tall. She seeks help from Santa Claus to find her friend Ono, who suddenly went missing. To break the curse and revive the sealed Santa, she threatens Sanda with a deadly blade.
How did you feel when you were cast as Fuyumura in SANDA? And what message do you have for fans looking forward to the series?
Meeting Shiori Fuyumura during the audition was such a powerful experience that it feels like she’s become a constant presence in my life. I poured everything I have into this role. I’d be thrilled if SANDA reaches a wide audience.
Since this is an action series featuring Santa Claus, is there anything you’d want to ask him for?
A liver so strong that it can handle any alcohol.
Ichie Ono (Voiced by Anna Nagase) –
A classmate of Sanda and best friend of Fuyumura. She suddenly disappeared from their class, and her whereabouts remain unknown. The school considers her dead, but Fuyumura is determined to search for her with Santa Claus’ help.
How did you feel when you were cast as Ono in SANDA? And what message do you have for fans looking forward to the series?
Ono was a role that really challenged me. I struggled a lot while developing the character, and I constantly felt a sense of anxiety and tightness in my chest. I hope that feeling comes through in Ono’s portrayal. Please look forward to the broadcast!
Since this is an action series featuring Santa Claus, is there anything you’d want to ask him for?
When I was a kid, I was always the one receiving presents, so this time, I’d like to give something back.
Maybe I could help out? Like riding in the sleigh with Santa and delivering presents around town! That
sounds like fun.
Hitoshi Amaya (Voiced by Yuuki Shin)–
Sanda’s roommate, also known as “Prince Amaya.” He is one of the few who know Santa Claus’ secret and wants him to return to fulfill an important wish.
How did you feel when you were cast as Amaya in SANDA? And what message do you have for fans looking forward to the series?
I’m really excited to be voicing Amaya in SANDA. I enjoyed bringing out his mysterious charm through my performance. This story really makes you reflect on what it means to be an adult. It’s a wonderful series, so please be sure to watch it!
Since this is an action series featuring Santa Claus, is there anything you’d want to ask him for?
I’d love to ask Santa Claus for a Nintendo Switch 2. Even if I don’t get one, just a chance to win the
pre-order lottery would be great. I’ve been good, so please! I’d like to play racing games on it!
Nico Kazao (Voiced by Misato Matsuoka) –
Sanda’s fiancée, chosen by the country from birth. She’s a realist who wants to rebel a little before becoming a “responsible adult.” She always acts freely and often swears.
How did you feel when you were cast as Nico in SANDA? And what message do you have for fans looking forward to the series?
When I first learned about Nico, I was deeply captivated by her complete freedom from any constraints. She might be someone who truly understands the preciousness of the present moment. I’m genuinely happy to be able to bring her to life! Please watch as these lovable characters struggle and grow together. I poured my heart into this role and had a great time. Thank you for your support!
Since this is an action series featuring Santa Claus, is there anything you’d want to ask him for?
I love eggplant, so I’d want lots of dishes like deep-fried eggplant soaked in light dashi and mapo eggplant!
SANDA is coming to town!
SANDA blends action, social satire, and coming-of-age drama with a uniquely surreal twist on the Santa Claus mythos. The series is directed by Tomohisa Shimoyama, written by Kimiko Ueno, with music by Tomoyuki Tanaka (FPM) and character designs by Masamichi Ishiyama. Animation is handled by Science SARU.
Broadcast for SANDA begins October 3, 2025. For updates and teaser content, follow the official X account @sanda_anime and visit the official website at sanda.red .
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