Following its initial broadcast run in April 2026, the television anime adaptation of Yuuki Suenaga and Takamasa Moue's acclaimed Weekly Shonen Jump manga Akane-banashi has officially confirmed its second season. Scheduled to premiere in January 2027 on the national TV Asahi "IMAnimation" network block, the sequel moves directly into the story's critical "Zenza Apprentice Arc." High school graduation behind her, protagonist Akane Osaki begins her professional journey under master Shiguma Arakawa, taking the official performer name Akane Arakawa.
Apprentice Arc
The newly unveiled key visual focuses on Yasaitei, the traditional theater hall where aspiring storytellers face demanding daily performances. The image features Akane taking her first formal step alongside fellow competitors Karashi Renmaya and Hikaru Koragaki, surrounded by seasoned figures from the traditional arts world. Director Ayumu Watanabe returns to lead the production at animation studio ZEXCS.
Accompanying the visual update, the official teaser preview offers a first glimpse into the grueling routine of a lower-rank apprentice at Yasaitei. The video also introduces sample voice work for two major new cast members joining the ensemble for Season 2.
Taku Yashiro joins the voice cast as Asagao Konjakutei, while veteran actor Yoji Ueda takes on the role of Hachisho Tsubakiya. Both cast members shared initial thoughts on joining the production:
Ever since I first read the manga, I was intensely drawn to how it balances the grand theme of traditional rakugo with a coming-of-age human drama. I feel the real weight of portraying someone embedded in the rakugo world.
Taku Yashiro, voice of Asagao Konjakutei
Entering the series in Season 2 as a character addressed as 'Master' carries real responsibility. Having grown up listening to classic performing arts on radio and TV, I hope to return a bit of that grace to this work.
Yoji Ueda, voice of Hachisho Tsubakiya
Production Staff
- Original Story: Yuuki Suenaga & Takamasa Moue (Weekly Shonen Jump / Shueisha)
- Director: Ayumu Watanabe
- Series Composition: Yoshihiro Tsuchiya
- Character Design & Chief Animation Director: Kii Tanaka
- Rakugo Supervision: Kikuhiko Hayashiya
- Animation Studio: ZEXCS
