TV Asahi has officially announced the upcoming TV anime adaptation of Magic Repo Man: Dumped by My Party, I’ll Cash In With a Cute Support Fairy to Become the Strongest! Based on the manga written by Masakichi and illustrated by Shingou Iijima, the fantasy adventure series is set to begin broadcasting on the TV Asahi Network in 2026, accompanied by the release of a new teaser visual featuring the main cast and protagonist, Lent, alongside his party, The Skypiercers.
Visual Teaser
In the newly released visual, Lent wields his unique ability, “Magic Warehouse,” as he and his allies — Guy, Misa, and Elle — explore a dangerous dungeon. The series blends traditional fantasy with an economic twist, introducing viewers to a protagonist whose powers are as much about resource management as they are about magic.
Adapted from the manga serialized on COMIC Meteor, the anime will follow Lent’s journey of revenge, redemption, and financial literacy — themes that the author says resonated strongly with readers from the beginning.
Author & Artist Comments
“Since the beginning of the web serialization, many readers have shared thoughts like, ‘I want younger audiences to read this,’ and ‘This should be used as high school finance education material.’ It made me really happy,” said Masakichi, the series’ original author. “Thanks to everyone’s support, the story was adapted into a manga and now it’s getting an anime adaptation! I hope viewers also find an interest in money and finance while enjoying the series.”
via press release
Manga artist Shingou Iijima also expressed excitement for the project’s expansion, releasing the illustration below. Seven Seas Entertainment confirmed the English release of the manga’s first volume for September 2026.
Lent, A gentle boy who grew up in a rural village. As a member of “The Sky Piercers”, he journeyed while lending magical abilities to his allies using his unique gift “Magic Warehouse”.
Synopsis (According to Seven Seas Entertainment’s official description)
Lent is part of the up-and-coming party known as the Skypiercers, and thanks to his unique Gift, he can loan massive amounts of magic to others. No MP? No problem with Lent around!
But when his companions grow too powerful and question his usefulness, Lent is kicked out of the group. Furious and betrayed, he discovers a hidden power within his Gift — and with the help of an adorably mischievous fairy partner, he’s ready to reclaim his magic from his former party… with interest!
Production Staff
Original Author: Masakichi
Manga Artist: Shingou Iijima
Director: Takahiro Tamano
Series Composition: Ryusuke Mori
Character Design: Kazue Mori
Animation Production: SynergySP
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The Jujutsu Kaisen franchise returns to the big screen with a colossal new theatrical feature, JUJUTSU KAISEN: Execution. Fans across North America will get the first chance to witness the chaos when the film debuts exclusively in IMAX theatres for one night only on December 3, followed by a nationwide rollout beginning December 5, presented by GKIDS in both Japanese and English-dubbed versions.
For the first time ever, JUJUTSU KAISEN: Execution unites the franchise’s two most intense arcs—“Shibuya Incident” and “Culling Game Part 1”—into a single cinematic experience designed for the big screen. The feature serves as a special compilation of the Shibuya Incident saga, reimagined for theatrical presentation, and includes the world premiere of the first two episodes of Season 3, ahead of their January 2026 streaming debut.
The IMAX screening event will feature one exclusive showing across 100 screens nationwide on December 3, giving fans an early-access experience before the film opens widely. A new IMAX-exclusive poster was also unveiled in celebration of the announcement.
About JUJUTSU KAISEN: Execution
Released in Japan under the title JUJUTSU KAISEN: The Movie – Shibuya Incident Special Edition x Culling Game Advance Screening on November 7, 2025, the feature brings the franchise’s most ambitious story arc to life. Produced by TOHO animation and animated by MAPPA, the film continues the legacy of Gege Akutami’s best-selling manga published by Shueisha’s Weekly Shonen Jump.
Since its 2020 debut, JUJUTSU KAISEN has evolved into a global phenomenon—earning “Anime of the Year” at the 2024 Crunchyroll Anime Awards and amassing millions of fans worldwide. Earlier this year, GKIDS released JUJUTSU KAISEN: Hidden Inventory / Premature Death – The Movie, grossing over $3.25 million in North America. The previous film, JUJUTSU KAISEN 0, went on to exceed $188 million globally.
A veil abruptly descends over the busy Shibuya area amid the bustling Halloween crowds, trapping countless civilians inside. Satoru Gojo, the strongest jujutsu sorcerer, steps into the chaos. But lying in wait are curse users and spirits scheming to seal him away.
Yuji Itadori, accompanied by his classmates and other top-tier jujutsu sorcerers, enters the fray in an unprecedented clash of curses — the Shibuya Incident.
In the aftermath, ten colonies across Japan are transformed into dens of curses in a plan orchestrated by Noritoshi Kamo, the most wicked sorcerer in history. As the deadly Culling Game starts, Special Grade sorcerer Yuta Okkotsu is assigned to carry out Yuji’s execution for his perceived crimes.
The desperate confrontation between Satoru Gojo’s two beloved students comes to the big screen with an early preview. Be the first to experience Yuji and Yuta’s fateful battle with the hotly anticipated kickoff to Season 3 in theatres nationwide.
Fans can experience the ultimate Jujutsu Kaisen spectacle early with IMAX Fan Event screenings on December 3. The film then expands to standard theatres nationwide starting December 5.
Be among the first to witness JUJUTSU KAISEN: Execution — where the Shibuya Incident reaches its devastating climax and The Culling Game begins.
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DMM.com LLC has officially announced that acclaimed voice actor Shunsuke Takeuchi will portray the adult version of the infamous hitman Jūzō Ōgami in the upcoming anime adaptation of KILL BLUE. Set for release in 2026, the series adapts Tadatoshi Fujimaki’s (Kuroko’s Basketball, ROBOT × LASERBEAM) hit manga and promises a thrilling blend of high-stakes action and coming-of-age drama.
Shunsuke Takeuchi
Speaking about his role, Takeuchi expressed both excitement and humor about bringing the character to life:
“Jūzō has the mind of an adult but the body of a child, so at first I thought I might need to do some detective work—but it seems that’s not the case! What a relief! I’ve often been told I seem a bit older than my age, so I feel a certain kinship with this character. All of the characters in KILL BLUE are incredibly expressive, and I’m excited to pop in from time to time and watch over their energetic interactions. Please look forward to KILL BLUE! ”
– via press release
Takeuchi’s impressive portfolio includes standout roles such as Producer in The Idolmaster Cinderella Girls, Alexander Yamato in King of Prism, Jūza Hyōdo in A3!, and Revolver in Yu-Gi-Oh! VRAINS. Known for his commanding voice and nuanced performances, he’s expected to bring both gravitas and emotional depth to Ōgami’s complex duality as a hardened assassin turned teenager.
A legendary assassin at 39. Starting over… as a middle schooler.
Jūzō Ōgami, a notorious hitman with a flawless record, collapses after being stung by a mysterious wasp. When he awakens, the once-feared 39-year-old finds himself in the body of a 13-year-old boy. Ordered by his boss to infiltrate a middle school, Jūzō must now balance an unexpected student life with the deadly world he thought he left behind. As new enemies emerge, the question remains — can Jūzō reclaim his original body, or will his second chance at life be cut short?
Paru Itagaki has never been a creator who plays it safe. With Beastars, she turned a high school animal society into a raw allegory of identity, desire, and power. Now with Sanda, her latest manga series, she once again pushes manga into unexpected territory — this time by transforming Santa Claus into a supernatural curse passed through generations. What sounds like a gag premise becomes, in Itagaki’s hands, a biting satire of society wrapped in slapstick comedy and manga charm.
At its core, Sanda asks: What if becoming Santa Claus was a hereditary curse? Our protagonist, high schooler Kazushige Sanda, learns the hard way when he suddenly transforms into a hulking, bearded Santa on Christmas Day. His classmate Shiori Fuyumura, unhinged after the disappearance of her friend Ono, forces him into accepting this role — claiming his powers are the key to saving her missing friend.
SANDA vol.1
From that moment on, the manga snowballs into chaos: part supernatural mystery, part high school melodrama, and part black comedy. What begins as a surreal Christmas joke morphs into a sharp critique of society’s obsession with youth, image, and forgotten traditions.
Episode 1
The debut chapter sets the tone with a mix of chaos and satire. We meet Kazushige Sanda, an ordinary high schooler, and his volatile classmate Shiori Fuyumura, who brandishes a knife and makes cryptic claims about Santa Claus. The narrative escalates quickly as she reveals Sanda is a descendant of Santa, forcing him to undergo the transformation into a hulking, red-suited old man.
Itagaki wastes no time in establishing her surreal style and getting to the point. The art here is loose, jittery, and full of nervous energy, perfectly reflecting Fuyumura’s instability and Sanda’s panic. The comedy lands in the absurdity of seeing a teenager instantly morph into a massive Santa, yet the undertone is dark — Ono’s disappearance and Fuyumura’s desperation set up the emotional stakes. This opening captures Itagaki’s greatest strength: taking a ridiculous premise and grounding it in genuine drama.
Episode 2
As Sanda struggles to understand his transformation, while Fuyumura tests his powers by planting a bomb in the science lab. Sanda is forced into action, torn between saving lives and accepting his bizarre identity as Santa. His resistance to fire — chalked up to “a chimney thing” — adds to the absurd comedy, while the situation underscores how reckless and unhinged Fuyumura is.
The bomb scenario is over-the-top, but it works as a way to test the limits of Sanda’s curse. The comedy shines in his reluctance — this isn’t a heroic power fantasy, but a curse that drags him into embarrassing and dangerous situations. Artistically, Itagaki uses chaotic paneling to amplify the tension, contrasting the students’ nonchalance with the absurdity of Sanda running around as Santa. It’s slapstick layered over genuine suspense, showing Itagaki’s mastery of tonal whiplash.
Episode 3
Sanda’s roommate Amaya steps into the spotlight. Having witnessed Sanda’s secret, Amaya manipulates him and Fuyumura, even demanding they kiss to secure their freedom. Sanda refuses on the grounds that “Santa DNA” won’t allow him to kiss a child, invoking his role’s bizarre moral code. The tension between them escalates, revealing Amaya as a cunning antagonist who thrives on control and cruelty.
This chapter is both the funniest and most disturbing so far, in my opinion. The kiss demand reads as playground bullying amplified by Itagaki’s sense of humor, but it also critiques the exploitation of innocence. Sanda’s refusal is played for laughs yet builds on the manga’s underlying rules: Santa is bound by folklore, even in absurd situations. The artwork shines in Amaya’s twisted expressions and Fuyumura’s manic energy, with exaggerated anatomy and angles that heighten the uncomfortable comedy. It’s quintessential Itagaki — chaotic, satirical, and emotionally charged.
Episode 4
The grotesque principal is introduced in this chapter, a 92-year-old man who maintains a youthful appearance with cosmetic injections, embodying society’s obsession with youth. He prowls the school seeking out “traumatized” students to drag into a rumored basement. When Fuyumura becomes his target, Sanda intervenes, unleashing violent Santa powers to protect her.
This episode pivots the manga into social critique. The principal is both hilarious and horrifying, a literal caricature of vanity and authority. Itagaki’s linework exaggerates every wrinkle, injection, and grotesque smile, making him one of the most visually striking characters so far. Thematically, this chapter solidifies Sanda as not just a gag manga but a satirical commentary on societal decay — the corrupt adult world preying on fragile youth, if you will. The fight scenes here are messy and violent, with energy lines and distorted anatomy giving them a frantic, unsettling edge.
Episode 5 & 6
Sanda and Fuyumura’s alliance deepens, driven by her obsession with finding Ono. Their relationship swings between manic comedy and poignant vulnerability, with moments of tenderness breaking through the chaos. Ono’s disappearance remains the driving mystery, while the presence of manipulative classmates and corrupt adults expands the sense of conspiracy around the school.
These chapters show Itagaki’s pacing — she doesn’t rush answers but layers mysteries with bizarre detours. Comedy continues to clash with heartfelt emotion: one moment we see a ridiculous Santa gag, the next a touching glimpse into Fuyumura’s dramatic, grief. The visual rhythm keeps readers off-balance, jumping from slapstick to action to melancholy in the span of a few pages. This unpredictability is what makes Sanda stand out among current manga titles.
Overall Impression
Volume 1 of Sanda is pure Paru Itagaki: raw, experimental, and deeply strange. The artwork is unpolished yet expressive, bursting with emotion. The comedy lands in its absurdity but beneath the humor lies real commentary on trauma, youth, and a society, subjects Itagaki fans are very much familiar with.
Personally, I do not like seeing Christmas item 3 months before December rolls in however, for anime and manga readers, Sanda is a refreshing break from formula, making it a MUST READ. It’s messy, surreal, and often thought-provoking, funny, and emotionally resonant. Like Beastars, it’s not afraid to push genre boundaries — but where Beastars explored love and instinct, Sanda wields Santa Claus as a weapon against societal decay. A bold, chaotic opening volume that combines comedy, satire, and action into something wholly unique. Sanda isn’t for readers who want polish or predictability — but for those who crave manga that experiments, provokes, and entertains.
Get your copy of Sanda volume 1 here, volume 2 is set to release November 18 and is available to preorder here.
The Anime series
The anime is slated to premiere on October 4, 2025 and will be able to stream on Amazon Prime Video.
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Anime Expo 2025 hosted a special SANDA panel and world premiere event featuring Paru Itagaki’s newest series, SANDA, the unconventional Santa Claus action story from the creator of BEASTARS. The panel took place on July 4, 2025, in Los Angeles, treating fans to exclusive first looks and insights into the upcoming anime adaptation.
With a packed room buzzing with anticipation, BEASTARS creator Paru Itagaki unveiled the world’s first look at her latest creation—SANDA, a wild holiday-infused action mystery that blends Santa Claus lore, social satire, and school mayhem into one unforgettably absurd adventure. The Anime Expo panel delivered more than just a screening: it gave fans a deep-dive into the making of the anime, never-before-seen visuals, heartfelt commentary from the creators, and even an exclusive themed souvenir. And yes, Paru Itagaki wore the chicken mask.
About SANDA
Set in a dystopian near-future Japan where children are protected to the point of imprisonment and birthrates have plummeted, SANDA follows a mild-mannered boy named Kazushige Sanda—until he discovers he may be the heir to an ancient Santa Claus lineage. What unfolds from there is part superhero origin story, part social commentary, and all kinds of chaotic.
The manga originally ran for 16 volumes, finishing in 2024. The anime adaptation, produced by the ever-stylish Science SARU, is set to premiere October 3, 2025.
Panel Highlights: Premiere, Guests, and Santa-Fueled Chaos
The Anime Expo panel kicked off with a full screening of Episode 1, making it the official world premiere of the SANDA anime. Roaring laughter, scattered gasps, and some of the most engaged audience reactions we’ve seen all AX weekend.
Following the screening, attendees were treated to a live talk session featuring:
Paru Itagaki (creator of SANDA, in her signature chicken mask)
Tomohisa Shimoyama (director, YUREI DECO)
Kōhei Sakita (producer, Science SARU)
Together, the trio offered insight into the creative process behind the show—everything from designing explosive Santa transformations to capturing Itagaki’s signature mix of humor and emotional depth.
“It’s completely ridiculous,” Itagaki joked, “but that’s kind of the point.”
Director Shimoyama revealed that nailing the tone was the biggest challenge, SANDA had to be funny without undercutting its mystery, and heartfelt without losing its absurdity.
“We approached Santa not just as a myth,” Shimoyama explained, “but as a symbol of lost wonder—and also as a total unit in a red suit.”
From the Panel: The Cast
During the panel, fans were also introduced to the anime’s main voice cast, Ayumu Murase as Kazushige Sanda, Hiroki Tōchi as Santa Claus featuring Umeka Shōji, Anna Nagase, Yūki Shin and Misato Matsuoka in undisclosed roles.
The series is scripted by Kimiko Ueno (known for Space Dandy), with character designs by Masamichi Ishiyama, and music by Tomoyuki Tanaka. Science SARU’s animation style—equal parts kinetic and offbeat—suits SANDA’s unpredictable tone.
If you thought a Santa-themed anime would be tame, think again. The world of SANDA is packed with dark satire, sci-fi overtones, and commentary on Japan’s social systems, particularly the pressure on youth and declining birthrate. But at its heart, it’s still a coming-of-age story gifted wrapped with a tinsel bow.
In one of the most talked-about sequences from the premiere, Sanda’s slim, meak body undergoes a Hulk-like transformation into a buff, Alpha bearded Santa—complete with dramatic sakuga overtones, blaring jingle bells, and enough flexing to break the sleigh.
And yet, amid all the madness, there’s sincerity. The panel made it clear that this isn’t just parody: SANDA is about identity, responsibility, and the idea of growing up in a world that treats children like porcelain.
Manga English Release
During the panel, it was announced that SANDA will be published in English by Titan Manga, starting with Volume 1 on September 2, 2025, followed by Volume 2 on November 18, 2025. Pre-orders are open, and AX attendees were encouraged to dive into the manga for deeper context and character arcs.
Itagaki noted that while she’s not involved in every episode of the anime, she’s thrilled to see the anime team “taking her weird little story and running wild with it.”
Panel Swag
Attendees of the panel didn’t leave empty-handed—they received an exclusive SANDA-themed tenugui towel featuring art from the series and the show’s logo.
During the fan Q&A, one bold attendee asked if there were any BEASTARS Easter eggs hidden in the anime. Itagaki, under the mask, simply said:
“Let’s just say… they share DNA. Literally? You’ll have to watch to find out.”
“Santa Claus Is Coming to Town”
The SANDA panel proves Paru Itagaki is still one of the most original minds in manga today. With its absurd and fun premise, slick animation, and genuine emotional undercurrents, SANDA is shaping up to be the surprise hit of Fall 2025. Whether you’re a BEASTARS devotee, a holiday chaos connoisseur, or just someone who thinks Santa should have six-pack abs, SANDA is the anime gift you didn’t know you needed.
Catch it when it premieres October 3, 2025. And don’t forget to read the manga!
For more interviews and coverage from Anime Expo 2025, follow The Kitsune Network.
TV TOKYO has officially announced the world premiere of its newest Gintama anime spin-off, GINTAMA – Mr. Ginpachi’s Zany Class, set to debut at Anime Expo 2025. The event will take place on Saturday, July 5, 2025, from 3:30 PM to 4:20 PM PDT in Panel Room 408AB at the Los Angeles Convention Center. This highly anticipated panel will give fans the first chance to watch a full episode of the new comedy series, along with exclusive behind-the-scenes insights and special messages from the voice cast.
Based on the Gintama spin-off novel 3-nen Z-gumi Ginpachi-sensei, the new anime reimagines the eccentric Gintoki Sakata as a chaotic high school teacher. Alongside his equally bizarre students, Ginpachi delivers life lessons in the most absurd and unpredictable ways, channeling the same brand of humor that made the original Gintama series a cult favorite.
The premiere panel promises to be more than just a screening. Fans can expect a video message from the beloved Odd Jobs trio: Gintoki (Tomokazu Sugita), Shinpachi (Daisuke Sakaguchi), and Kagura (Rie Kugimiya). In addition, attendees will get a look behind the curtain at the anime’s creative development and will be the first to see brand-new Gintama merchandise reveals. There will also be giveaways and quizzes during the panel, giving lucky fans the chance to win exclusive Gintama goods.
Panel Information Title: [WORLD PREMIERE] GINTAMA – Mr. Ginpachi’s Zany Class Date: Saturday, July 5, 2025 Time: 3:30 PM to 4:20 PM PDT Location: Panel Room 408AB at Los Angeles Convention Center
“We are incredibly proud to bring the world premiere of ‘GINTAMA – Mr. Ginpachi’s Zany Class’ to Anime Expo 2025, a premier event for anime enthusiasts,” said Makoto Hijikata, Producer at TV TOKYO. “This spin-off offers a fresh and hilarious take on the beloved Gintama world, and we eagerly anticipate sharing it with fans for the very first time.”
GINTAMA – Mr. Ginpachi’s Zany Class continues the series’ legacy of irreverent comedy and sharp social commentary, this time within the halls of a high school run by the ever-chaotic Ginpachi-sensei. The series is expected to deliver the same unpredictable antics and genre-bending humor that defined the original franchise.
Anime Expo 2025 runs from July 3 to 6 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. For tickets and full programming details, visit www.anime-expo.org.
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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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Summer nights are about to get bloodier—and steamier. AMC Networks’ HIDIVE is turning up the heat this July with the exclusive return of the hit vampire romance Call of the Night for its long-awaited Season 2, premiering as part of the Summer 2025 simulcast lineup.
Adapted from Kotoyama’s award-winning manga, Call of the Night became an instant fan favorite with its atmospheric blend of late-night urban loneliness and electric supernatural chemistry between its lead couple—Ko, a high school insomniac, and Nazuna, the playful, unpredictable vampire who’s anything but your average bloodsucker. Now, the next chapter in their story is ready to unfold.
A Love Story in the Shadows Deepens
Season 2 picks up as Ko finally comes to terms with his feelings—and his fate. Accepting that he wants to become a vampire, Ko confesses he “likes” Nazuna. But Nazuna, still hilariously unfamiliar with the concept of love, responds the only way she knows how: by attempting to make Ko fall for her. Chaos, heartbeats, and late-night escapades ensue.
Meanwhile, Detective Anko Uguisu sharpens her fangs—figuratively speaking. Determined to purge the vampire threat, she sets her sights on Nazuna and others like her. As the story dives deeper, dark truths begin to surface: What is Nazuna’s hidden past? What secret do Anko and Nazuna share? And what happens when a vampire forgets the human life they once lived?
First Look at Anime Expo 2025
Fans heading to Anime Expo 2025 won’t have to wait for the full premiere. HIDIVE is hosting an exclusive Call of the Night Season 2 panel on:
📆 Saturday, July 5, 2025 🕔 5:45–6:35 PM PT 📍 Location: Platinum Ballroom, JW Marriott at L.A. LIVE
The panel will feature a sneak peek at Episode 2 (first half) and a post-screening Q\&A session, giving fans a rare behind-the-scenes look at the characters, themes, and creative decisions that shape this mysterious, nocturnal world.
About the Series
Originally serialized in Weekly Shonen Sunday since 2019, Call of the Night concluded in early 2024 with 200 chapters collected across 20 manga volumes. The manga is available in English via VIZ Media.
Season 2 is helmed by returning director Tomoyuki Itamura (Monogatari Series, Call of the Night S1), written by Michiko Yokote, with character designs by Haruka Sagawa and animation production by LIDENFILMS.
Returning cast includes:
Sora Amamiya as Nazuna Nanakusa
Gen Sato as Ko Yamori
Yumiri Hanamori as Akira Asai
Haruka Tomatsu, Eri Kitamura, Shizuka Ito, and Naomi Ozora round out the ensemble of vampire misfits and nighttime mischief-makers.
New to the Series?
Catch up now—Season 1 is streaming on demand exclusively on HIDIVE. Whether you’re a first-time viewer or a returning fan ready to get bitten all over again, now’s the time to dive in.
Follow HIDIVE on X (Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for more news, trailers, and sneak peeks leading up to Call of the Night‘s second season.
Because when the sun sets… the real love stories begin.
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Romantic comedy fans, prepare your hearts: The Dangers in My Heart is returning to the spotlight at Anime Expo 2025—this time on the big screen.
HIDIVE, in collaboration with TV Asahi, has announced an exclusive preview panel for The Dangers in My Heart Movie, taking place Friday, July 4 at the JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE during North America’s largest anime convention, Anime Expo. Fans can expect a first look at the highly anticipated film, which blends key moments from Seasons 1 and 2 of the anime with brand-new animation that continues Kyotaro and Anna’s offbeat love story.
The panel won’t just screen content—it’s set to feature a live Q&A with three special guests from the Japanese production team: Director Hiroaki Akagi, and Producers Yosuke Sakurai and Kazuki Endo. Fans will have the rare opportunity to hear behind-the-scenes insights from the creators themselves.
“We’re thrilled to partner with TV Asahi on this very special The Dangers in My Heart Movie panel at Anime Expo 2025,” said HIDIVE President John Ledford. “The series’ heartfelt story became a fan-favorite since its debut in Spring 2023, earning numerous awards for both its original and sequel seasons.”
Based on the manga by Norio Sakurai, The Dangers in My Heart follows the morbidly imaginative Kyotaro Ichikawa, a loner with a dark obsession with murder… or so he believes. When he starts interacting with Anna Yamada, the bubbly and secretly clumsy school idol, his grim fantasies give way to awkward crushes and unexpected connections. The result? A twistedly sweet rom-com that flips high school romance tropes on their head.
The film, first announced in September 2024 during the “Fan Appreciation Project!!” event in Tokyo, offers a new chapter for Kyotaro and Anna—one fans won’t want to miss. HIDIVE expects the ballroom to be packed, so arrive early!
Anime Expo 2025 – The Dangers in My Heart Movie Panel
Date: Friday, July 4, 2025
When: 8:00 PM – 8:50 PM PT
Where: Diamond Ballroom, JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE
Can’t wait until July? Seasons 1 & 2 of The Dangers in My Heart are streaming now on HIDIVE.
For more Anime Expo 2025 coverage, stay tuned to The Kitsune Network!
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The highly anticipated anime Turkey! – Time to Strike- has released its second key visual ahead of its premiere in July 2025. Along with the visual, new details about the series’ plot and staff have also been revealed.
Set against the backdrop of high school bowling, Turkey! – Time to Strike- tells the story of Mai, a “genius who never wins,” and her teammates—Rina, Sayuri, Nozomi, and Nanase—who are all members of the Ikkokukan High School Bowling Club. Despite the team’s struggles and setbacks, they continue to push forward, striving for victory as they battle through the summer’s final chapter. The title, “Turkey,” refers to a bowling term for scoring three consecutive strikes, symbolizing the team’s perseverance and determination.
The series is directed by Susumu Kudo, with a script written by Naomi Hiruta. Character design and chief animation direction are handled by Airi Takekawa, and Yuki Hayashi provides the music. The production is a collaboration between BAKKEN RECORD and PONY CANYON, with animation produced by BAKKEN RECORD.
