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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Sentenced to Be a Hero -The Prison Records of Penal Hero Unit 9004- is officially set to air in 2025, bringing an action-packed, dark fantasy story to the screen. Based on the award-winning light novel series by Rocket Shokai, this highly anticipated anime promises intense battles, unique characters, and a deep dive into a world where criminals are forced into heroic service.
The second teaser visual for Sentenced to Be a Hero has just been released, showcasing the protagonist, Xylo Forbartz, preparing to face a formidable adversary. Fans also got a special treat with the announcement of the cast for the lead roles—Yohei Azakami and Mayu Iizuka will voice Xylo and Teoritta, respectively.
CAST COMMENTS
Xylo Forbartz, once the leader of the Holy Knights, is now a “Punishment Hero” after committing the grave crime of killing a Goddess. With exceptional combat skills and leadership abilities, Xylo is tasked with leading a penal unit of prisoners sentenced to fight for the greater good in an ongoing war against the Demon Lords. His voice will be brought to life by the talented Yohei Azakami, known for his roles in Re:Zero and Tokyo Revengers.
“First, please watch the teaser PV. Honestly, this one sentence sums it all up. Although it was released before the recording session, I was immediately drawn into the world of the work by its beautiful animation and dynamic soundtrack. The joy and pressure of playing Xylo. Amidst the chaotic emotions and the flow of blood coursing through my body, I am preparing for battle. To the fans of the work and those who will become fans in the future, I sincerely hope you will fully enjoy the world of the Punishment Heroes, starting with this “despair.” Thank you very much.
Teoritta is the “Goddess” of swords who has formed a contract with Xylo. She can summon a wide range of swords, including Holy Swords and demonic swords. While she has a high sense of pride and loves being praised, she also shows self-sacrificing behavior, epitomizing the classic traits of a “Goddess”. She enjoys having her head patted.
The battles of the unique and diverse prisoners sentenced as Punishment Heroes! As I read the original work, I was completely drawn into its world. I’m so happy to be a part of such a project. Have you all seen the teaser PV!? As the “Goddess”, I’m really looking forward to seeing Teoritta’s dignified battle scenes and her cute, innocent moments in daily life. I’m excited for everyone to see all sides of her in the animation!
Behind-the-Scenes Project and Character Insights!
To celebrate the upcoming anime release, beginning today a new behind-the-scenes production project titled Sentenced to Be a Hero Animation Production Chronicles offers fans exclusive insights into the creative process. This project will include concept designs, illustrations, and interviews with the production staff, all leading up to the anime’s broadcast.
Additionally, Explanation Chronicles will delve deeper into the unique terms and lore of the series, giving fans an enhanced understanding of the story’s rich world-building. Both projects will gradually release content—be sure to stay tuned for updates!
About Sentenced to Be a Hero
Originally a self-published light novel series that debuted in 2020, Sentenced to Be a Hero quickly gained popularity and recognition, winning several prestigious awards, including the Kakuyomu Award 2020 and This Light Novel is Amazing! 2023. Set in a dark fantasy world, the series follows Xylo Forbartz, a convicted criminal forced to serve as a “Hero” in a penal military unit. The convict heroes fight to defend humanity against the Demon Lords—resurrecting upon death to battle again if necessary.
The anime adaptation is produced by Studio KAI, renowned for its vibrant animation and gripping storytelling. Fans can also look forward to the upcoming release of Volume 4 of the light novel in May 2025.
Synopsis
In a world where criminals are sentenced to serve as “Heroes,” Xylo Forbartz, a former leader of the Holy Knights, is forced into military service as part of a penal unit. Together with Teoritta, a Goddess of swords, Xylo leads a group of criminals in a war against the Demon Lords. The unit must fight through despair, struggling with both their pasts and their fate. Their survival hinges on their ability to fight—resurrected again and again in an endless cycle.
Staff Original Work: Rocket Shokai (Kadokawa Dengeki no Shinbungei) Original Illustration: MEPHISTO Animation Studio: Studio KAI
Main Cast Xylo Forbartz: Yohei Azakami Teoritta: Mayu Iizuka
BanG Deam fans can descend into the dark rhapsody of “KiLLKiSS”, the powerful opening theme for the highly anticipated gothic thriller anime BanG Dream! Ave Mujica – The Die is Cast –. Performed by Ave Mujica, the track combines their signature symphonic metal style with a dark and immersive narrative, setting the perfect tone for the series.
“KiLLKiSS” is the result of a stellar collaboration. The track features composition by Daisuke Hasegawa and lyrics by Diggy-MO.
A Dark Tale in the BanG Dream! Universe
BanG Dream! Ave Mujica – The Die is Cast – is the latest addition to the BanG Dream! franchise, turning the spotlight on the mysterious band Ave Mujica. Premiering worldwide TODAY January 2, 2025, and available on Crunchyroll, this intriguing series delves into the complexities of the music industry, exploring themes of ambition, betrayal, and hidden pasts through its gripping storyline and engaging sound.
For fans eager to revisit Ave Mujica’s captivating sound, “KiLLKiSS” will be available for streaming on Spotify starting January 8, 2025. The physical single, scheduled for release on January 15, 2025, will include both the opening and ending theme songs (Regular edition CD jacket). A limited-edition version will come with an exclusive Blu-ray featuring Ave Mujica’s 3rd LIVE “Veritas,” a concert that took place on October 13, 2024, at the scenic Kawaguchiko Stella Theater.
Regular edition CD jacket Limited edition CD jacket
Ave Mujica at “Ave Mujica 3rd LIVE ‘Veritas'” on October 13, 2024
Meet Ave Mujica
Band Visual Image
Ave Mujica stands out in the BanG Dream! universe for their gothic-themed aesthetic and enigmatic performances. The band’s lineup includes:
Uika Misumi (Doloris): Lead guitar and vocals
Mutsumi Wakaba (Felicitas): Rhythm guitar
Umiri Yahata (Beatrix): Bass
Nyamu Yūtenji (Amoris): Drums
Sakiko Togawa (Sicil): Keyboards
Their music blends symphonic elements with heavy metal, creating a hauntingly unique soundscape that perfectly complements their dark, theatrical persona.
For more information about BanG Dream! Ave Mujica – The Die is Cast –, including episode guides and character profiles, visit the official website. Be sure to follow Ave Mujica’s official social media channels to stay updated on their latest performances and releases.
Whether you’re a long-time BanG Dream! fan or new to the series, BanG Dream! Ave Mujica – The Die is Cast – promises to lead you on a symphonic journey into the depths of gothic metal. Experience the thrill today!
The beloved manga series Solo Camping For Two by Yudai Debata has surpassed a remarkable milestone, with over 3 million copies in sold. Fans have even more to celebrate following the announcement of a live-action drama adaptation set to premiere on January 9th on TOKYO MX. Adding to the excitement, the series will also be adapted into a TV anime, scheduled to air in July 2025.
The narrative follows Gen Kinokura, an experienced solo camper who values his solitude above all else. His peaceful lifestyle takes an unexpected turn when he encounters Shizuku Kusano, a cheerful but inexperienced camper. This chance meeting evolves into an unconventional partnership, creating a dynamic the series dubs “solo camping for two.”
PONY CANYON INC. describes the series as follows,
Gen Kinokura, 34 years old. A solitary camper who cherishes his alone time in nature, Gen enjoys his usual solo camping trips. However, when he’s about to head home after one of his trips, he unexpectedly encounters Shizuku Kusano, a complete beginner in camping. Reluctantly, Gen ends up camping with Shizuku, despite it being the last thing he wanted to do. What will become of Gen’s peaceful camping life now that it’s turned upside down by this new companion?
– Gen Kinokura (Voiced by: Daiki Hamano) The main protagonist, 34 years old. A true solo camper who finds solace and joy in solitude. While immersed in the tranquility of nature, he unexpectedly meets Shizuku, a woman who turns out to be exactly the opposite of his ideal camping companion.
– Shizuku Kusano (Voiced by: Mizuki Niizaki) The heroine of the story, 20 years old. A beginner camper who after meeting Gen during her first camping experience, decides to apprentice under him. She proposes the idea of solo camping for two, much to Gen’s reluctance.
Daiki Hamano (Voice of Gen Kinokura)
Hello, this is Daiki Hamano, playing the role of Gen Kinokura. As his name suggests, Gen is a stubborn man. While he struggles with personal relationships, he’s incredibly passionate and deeply dedicated when it comes to camping. To portray him, I’ve tried to embody the essence of an “old-school Showaera man” while also capturing the charm of someone who lives for his hobbies and dreams. Personally, I really admire people who are passionate and straightforward, so playing Gen has been a truly enjoyable experience for me.
When it comes to my own camping memories, a few stand out. During middle school, I participated in a school trip to Mount Tsukuba, where we had a campfire and performed skits with the entire grade. In high school, while living in Sydney, I took part in a survival camp in the Blue Mountains. Although these weren’t solo camping trips, both experiences left a lasting impression on me. At Mount Tsukuba, we shared stories and laughter around the campfire, while the Blue Mountains trip involved a five-day survival adventure where we carried all our food, utensils, and camping gear ourselves, planning our route from start to finish. Both are unforgettable memories.
Recording sessions for this series often feature intimate scenes with just a few characters, which has fostered a close, almost familial atmosphere among the cast. Led by narrator Shimura-san and dialect coach Shiro-san, we’ve shared many lively conversations about things like “what kind of camping we’d love to try” or “what food we’d want to cook.” Despite all the fun, we approach the performances and the story with great seriousness, carefully considering every word and line delivery. It’s been an incredibly rewarding experience. To all Solo Camping For Two fans and camping enthusiasts, I truly hope you’ll enjoy this unique take on the challenges and joys of camping. Camping really is the best, isn’t it? I hope this series inspires you to cook, explore, and embrace the camping spirit. And if we ever meet at a campsite someday, let’s try a little solo camping for two together!
Mizuki Niizaki (Voice of Shizuku Kusano)
Hello, nice to meet you! I’m Mizuki Niizaki, and I’ll be voicing Shizuku Kusano. Didn’t you wonder, “What does Solo Camping For Two even mean?” I certainly did when I first heard the title. I discovered the series during the audition process, and I was immediately intrigued by the idea of enjoying both camping and cooking knowledge all at once! In reality, I’ve never gone camping myself, as I’m more of an indoor person, but I’m excited to learn about camping alongside Shizuku.
Shizuku can be a bit pushy at times, but she’s incredibly earnest and sincere. So, I’ve tried to bring out as much of my own sincerity as possible when voicing her. I hope you’ll enjoy watching Shizuku grow throughout the series. Also, her Nagasaki dialect, which appears frequently, adds to her charm, so I’ve made sure to study it carefully. I hope you’ll look forward to that as well! This is actually my first regular anime role, and I’ve been nervous but excited at every recording session. However, with the guidance and advice I’ve received from Daiki Hamano, just like Shizuku learning from Gen, I feel like I’m growing with each session. I really hope the atmosphere of Solo Camping For Two reaches you all. Let’s enjoy both the camping and gourmet aspects of this show together!
A Special Celebration
To mark this exciting milestone, creator Yudai Debata unveiled a commemorative illustration featuring Shizuku and Gen celebrating the anime adaptation.
As Gen and Shizuku tackle the challenges of camping together and discover the joys of nature in their unique ways, fans can look forward to a heartwarming and refreshing adventure. Don’t miss the premiere of Solo Camping For Two in July 2025!
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The wait is over! Fans of the outrageous and genre-defying anime Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt can finally celebrate as the teaser PV for the highly anticipated sequel, New Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt, has dropped! This bold and vibrant series, known for its distinctive cartoon-like animation style and raunchy humor, first aired in 2010 and became a global sensation. Now, Studio TRIGGER is bringing the series back with all the flair and chaos fans love.
The teaser PV not only showcases the series’ iconic visual style but also introduces the returning and new voice cast! Arisa Ogasawara is back as the ever-sassy Panty, alongside Mariya Ise, who reprises her role as the gothic and sweet-toothed Stocking. Joining them is Akeno Watanabe as Knee Socks and Yuko Natsuyoshi as the mischievous Fastener, along with many familiar voices returning from the original series.
In addition to the cast, the production team has unveiled more key staff members and details about the music. ☆Taku Takahashi of m-flo and TeddyLoid, the powerhouse duo behind the original series’ unforgettable soundtrack, are confirmed to return. With their dynamic soundscapes, fans can expect music that perfectly complements the chaos and charm of the returning series.
Japanese voice casts comments
Arisa Ogasawara / Panty,
This is Arisa Ogasawara, the voice of Panty. I couldn’t believe it when I first heard that “Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt” is coming back! I thought “Huh? No way! Is this a joke?!” But it’s true! And to top it off, it’s been 14 years… I’m super surprised! I’m really excited to meet the “bitches” again. Whether you’ve seen “Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt” before, never watched it, or watched it but couldn’t quite understand it, I hope you’re looking forward to it!
– via press release
Mariya Ise / Stocking,
No way… Is the legendary anime “Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt”… coming back?!?! I’m definitely not the only one who has been eagerly waiting for a new series… It’s going to come back even stronger and cause chaos in Daten City!! Please look forward to it!!
– via press release
Koji Ishii / Garterbelt,
Ah, so it’s being renewed… I wonder who will act Garterbelt,” I thought, and then it turned out to be me. I was honestly surprised to be taking on that physically demanding role after 14 years, and I realized that I’d have to push myself and get in shape to handle it. After all, as you all know, it’s quite a serious role… So, I’m fully focused and deter to approach it with seriousness and dedication.
– via press release
Hiroyuki Yoshino / Brief,
Wow, are we really going to release this work into a world so full of restrictions…? To everyone who enjoyed the previous series, of course, and to those who are experiencing ”Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt” for the first time with this new installment, I’d be so happy if you could enjoy this bold, no-holds-barred, unapologetic work—one that hides nothing and shies away from nothing!
– via press release
☆Taku Takahashi (m-flo),
I’m really happy to be able to participate again in such an experimental and bold work among the TRIGGER productions. Each episode has its own unique tone and I had a great time creating music in a variety of styles to match that. This time, we also worked on the production while having sessions with different track makers. Compared to the previous series, I was able to communicate even more closely with the TRIGGER staff, so I’d love for you to check out how the visuals and music synchronize this time!
– via press release
After its 14-year hiatus, New Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt is shaping up to be an electrifying continuation of the cult classic. For updates the series, visit the official website (Japanese).
What are you most excited to see in the new series? Let us know in the comments below!
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Teaser visual for the TV anime “I’m an S-Rank Monster, Behemoth, but I’m Mistaken for a Cat and Live as a Pet Knight of an Elf Girl” (c) Shinonome Taro, Ginyoku Nozomi, Yoruno Mitsuki / Hakusensha / Behemoth Production Committee
The upcoming fantasy anime I’m an S-Rank Monster Behemoth, but I’m Mistaken for a Cat and Living as an Elf Girl’s Pet Knight follows the tale of a protagonist who, after losing his life, is reincarnated as a juvenile Behemoth—an S-Rank disaster-level monster. The story unfolds as he navigates his new life under the guise of a seemingly ordinary pet. The series is adapted from the original work by Ginyoku Nozomi and Shinonome Tarou.
Teaser visual for the TV anime “I’m an S-Rank Monster, Behemoth, but I’m Mistaken for a Cat and Live as a Pet Knight of an Elf Girl” (c) Shinonome Taro, Ginyoku Nozomi, Yoruno Mitsuki / Hakusensha / Behemoth Production Committee
New Cast Announcements
Nonoka Obuchi as Lili, a Hypixie girl from the fairy tribe and Yu Wakui as Feli, a Hydriad girl also hailing from the fairy tribe.
The opening theme, “Saikou no Kokoro”, is performed by Nonoka Obuchi (Lili). The song features lyrics, composition, and arrangement by Kawatani Enon of Gesu no Kiwami Otome and Indigo la End. Additional music composition is handled by Shirato Yusuke and oni, whose work is previewed in the series’ first official promotional video (PV), alongside Obuchi’s song.
Production Team & Cast
Directed by Tetsuo Hirakawa with series composition by Kanichi Katou, the anime is co-produced by Zero-G and Saberworks. The main cast includes:
I’m Obuchi Nonohana, and I’ll be playing the role of Lili! Lili is a pixie who is perfectly described as “tomboyish”! She’s a small but reliable and cute fairy. I love admiring little kittens, but just once I’d love to entrust my whole body to a fluffy thing bigger than me like Lili…! Thank you very much for your support!!
via press release
Yu Wakui (Voice of Ferry)
Feli-chan is a fairy girl who is easygoing, but also has a curious and friendly side. Ever since I read the original work, I thought it would be fun to spend time with a girl like her, so I’m very happy to have had the opportunity to meet Feli-chan! I’ll do my best to portray her so that I can fully convey her charm, so please look forward to it!
via press release
Nonoka Obuchi (regarding the opening theme)
I am Obuchi Nonohana, and I will be singing the opening theme song, “Saikou no Kokoro.” I put my S-Rank feelings into this pop and cute song written by Kawatani Enon! I hope you can feel its “soft” and “big” strength. Also, the combination of the musicians led by Kawatani is just like a party of adventurers! You will be enchanted by the music created by their ultimate teamwork…!
Via press release
Enon Kawatani (Music composition and arrangement)
I wrote this song with the “utmost care”. I was led by Obuchi’s singing voice and wrote this song with great enthusiasm. For me, who loves reincarnation stories, this offer is like a reward. I have more to look forward to next year.
via press release
The anime is set to premiere in January 2025.
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