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The One Piece fandom was recently given the heartbreaking news of Kazuki Yao stepping down from his role as the voice actor for Franky, the shipwright of the Straw Hat Pirates. The voice actor was one of the veterans who has worked with the One Piece franchise for a very long time and has offered his voice to many different characters like Jango and Bon Clay.

Franky’s Voice Actor Kazuki Yao | Credit: Toei Animation

After succumbing to old age, Yao had no choice but to retire and let Subaru Kimura, the voice actor of Aoi Todo from Jujutsu Kaisen, take over. However, it looks like Yao might not be the only one who left the One Piece family, as another voice actor gets in line for retirement. This voice actor is none other than Shūichi Ikeda, who voiced the character of Red-Haired Shanks in the official One Piece anime series.

All this cute AI wants to have is a loving family with her creator parents! Nanateru’s manga Alma-chan Wants to Have a Family! (also known as Alma-chan wa Kazoku ni Naritai in Japanese) revealed today that the romantic-comedy series will be getting a TV anime. The series follows two scientists who don't know they're in love, but their robot understands their feelings and wants to be in a family together. A commemorative illustration from the original author was released to celebrate the announcement, along with the details of the main staff members. Related: Kyoto Animation Adapts Keiichi Arawi's City Manga For 2025 Anime Yasuhiro Minami ( Gintama episode director) will be in the director’s chair for Alma-chan Wants to Have a Family! at Studio Flad with Yukie Sugawara ( The Vampire Dies in No Time ) writing the series composition and Mika Yamamoto ( Fire Force sub-character designer) drawing the character designs.

Long ago, one of the most beloved Shōnen Jump series of all time made a solid case for anime filler in a condensed, funny package. Gintama is a well-worn shōnen series renowned for its comic take on a genre that, during its heyday, often took itself too seriously, in a way, serving as a forerunner to franchises like One Punch Man. Gintama has won enduring success without abandoning its themes or a serious tone altogether, and it's earned a place in shonen's pantheon of genre greats, as well as a brand-new Gintama anime shown off at Jump Festa.

Anime filler has gained a lot of notoriety for obvious reasons. Even in the best cases, franchises like Naruto show that filler is a double-edged sword, capable of helping or hurting a franchise. Gintama, though, gave a breakdown of anime filler and timelines that serves as a hilariously sincere reflection on the...

The live-action film adaptation of Akane Shimizu's manga series Cells at Work! kept its first-place position in the Japan Top 10 box-office for two consecutive weekends now, according to Kogyo Tsushinsha . The movie recorded earnings of 532 million yen (3.38 million Usd) on 386,000 admissions in its second weekend, a 37% week-on-week drop from its opening weekend , The film's official X (formerly Twitter) also reported that the cumulative total gross since releasing on December 13 now stands at 1.75 billion yen (11.13 million Usd) earned from 1.28 million ticket sales, making it the third highest-grossing Japanese live-action film adaptation of popular manga in 2024, behind Kingdom: Return of the Great General ( 8.03 billion yen ) and Golden Kamuy (3 billion yen). Gekijoban Nintama Rantaro Dokutake Ninja-tai Saikyou no Gunshi (translated to Nintama Rantaro the Movie: The Strongest Strategist of the Dokutake Ninja Squad ), the first theatrical film from the long-running Nintama Rantaro anime series in 13 years, opened in 328 theaters across Japan on...

Another Jump Festa event is in the books, and as usual we were inundated with some pretty major Shonen Jump adjacent anime and manga news. Thankfully, we've rounded it all up in a handy recap covering all of the major beats from the weekend! Top Jump Festa 2025 Anime Announcements Expectations were once again exceeded when it came to the big names at Jump Festa 2025. We got more news on the next Jujutsu Kaisen season, return timing for Hell's Paradise season 2, our first proper look at Chainsaw Man - The Movie: Reze Arc and a bunch more. You can see some of the heavy-hitting highlights below. Jujutsu Kaisen Anime Heads to the Culling Game Arc in Super Teaser Visual Hell’s Paradise Season 2 Anime Premieres in January 2026, Will Stream on Crunchyroll Spy x Family Season 3 Anime to Premiere in October 2025 My Hero Academia Final Season Anime Premieres Autumn 2025 My Hero Academia:...

The renowned anime franchise “Gintama” is making a much-anticipated return with a new spinoff series reimagining its main character, Gintoki Sakata, as a high school teacher. The announcement was made during Jump Festa ’25, stating that “Class 3-z’s Ginpachi-sensei” will be released in October 2025. This is the franchise’s first new content in more than three years.

Based on Tomohito Osaki’s spinoff novels, the series turns Gintoki into an unorthodox homeroom teacher. Fans may look forward to seeing familiar characters in student roles, including Kagura, Shinpachi, Kondo, Takasugi, and Hijikata.

Bandai Namco Pictures, which has worked on the franchise since its fourth season, will handle the animation production. The project will include a combination of seasoned “Gintama” employees and new talent. Natsumi Higashida will direct, with Makoto Moriwaki serving as chief director. Katsuki Fudeyasu noted for his work on popular series such as “Bleach” and “JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Stardust Crusaders,...

The hilarious sci-fi samurai is returning for a light-hearted anime season titled Gintama '3-Nen Z-Gumi Ginpachi-sensei' later this year, and the first trailer has finally been revealed. With the last content from the franchise being more than 3 years ago, fans are ecstatic at the chance of receiving this wholesome new season.

During this year's Jump Festa event, a trailer for Gintama '3-Nen Z-Gumi Ginpachi-sensei' has been released as promised this October, and it looks amazing. The series is scheduled to air in October 2025, and the full staff and cast have already been revealed. However, the episode count is unavailable as the season is still in progress, but as the countdown to fall 2025 begins, more information and teasers will be released.

Gintama Takes To The Classroom In The New Season Based On The Manga By Hideaki Sorachi

Based on the spinoff manga written by Tomohito Osaki, this anime season...

Hideaki Soachi’s Gintama is one such anime-manga series that instantly commands fans’ attention, and evokes a wide range of emotions, from respect to endless laughter. Even those who are unfamiliar with the anime must have come across some sort of hilarious compilation of iconic parody scenes featuring Gintoki. Such is the charm and prominence of Sorachi’s magnum opus.

Gintoki and Kagura after opening Shinpachi’s present in Gintama anime | Credits: Studio Sunrise

And if that isn’t enough, the anime has maintained high rankings on MyAnimeList for years. While newer fans often wonder about the appeal of Gintama, nobody would have expected the animation director to underestimate its charm. But, that’s exactly what happened when Chizuru Miyawaki initially started working on the anime. The director shared his experiences during an interview, and his words highlight what makes Gintama so special.

Director Chizuru Miyawaki’s experience with Gintama...

Following a fan event held in Japan today, the official website and accounts for Black Butler revealed that the previously announced Black Butler -Emerald Witch Arc- anime will begin airing in April 2025 . A teaser visual and two additional cast members were also unveiled. Black Butler -Emerald Witch Arc- Teaser Visual Chikahiro Kobayashi (Legoshi in Beastars ) and Rie Kugimiya (Kagura in Gintama ) join the cast as Wolfram Gelzer and Sieglinde Sullivan, respectively. Sebastian Ciel Sieglinde Wolfram Related: Black Butler -Emerald Witch Arc- Anime Announced, Crunchyroll to Stream Kenjiro Okada ( March comes in like a lion chief director) continues to direct the latest Black Butler anime at studio CloverWorks, with series composition by Hiroyuki Yoshino ( World Trigger ), character designs by Yumi Shimizu ( Horimiya chief animation director). Maaya Sakamoto and Daisuke Ono reprise their roles as Ciel Phantomhive and Sebastian Michaelis, respectively. Crunchyroll streams the full series to date and describes the overall...

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Blue Eye Samurai is an adult animation action-adventure drama series created by Michael Green and Amber Noizumi. The Netflix animated series is set in Japan’s Edo period, and it revolves around a mixed-race swordmaster, Mizu, in her quest for revenge. Blue Eye Samurai’s voice cast includes Maya Erskine, George Takei, Masi Oka, Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, Brenda Song, Darren Barnet, Randall Park, and Kenneth Branagh. So, if you loved the intense personal drama, brutal action, and compelling characters in Blue Eye Samurai, here are some similar shows you should check out next.

Samurai Champloo (Hulu & Rent on Prime Video)

Samurai Champloo is a Japanese historical action-adventure series written by Masaru Gotsubo. The Adult Swim series revolves around two warriors with completely different personalities who hate each others’ guts. They are brought together by a young woman named Fuu,...

As the fourth installment of the Gintama On Theater project, two more compilation films of the Gintama anime franchise are confirmed to release theatrically in Japan in February 2025. The first film, based on the TV anime's Shinsengumi Crisis Arc ( Shinsengumi Douran-hen in Japan), is set to release on February 7, 2025, then the second film, based on the Kabukicho Four Devas Arc ( Kabukicho Shitennou-hen ) will follow on February 21, 2025. Related: Gintama Anime Kintama Arc Compilation Film Shares Poster and Release Date Gintama On Theater is a project to release compilation films based on popular episodes from the Gintama TV anime series in Japanese theaters as part of the project to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the serialization of Hideaki Sorachi's Gintama manga and the broadcast of its TV anime adaptation. Following the first compilation film based on the TV anime's Thorny Arc ( Baragaki-hen in Japan) in November 2023 and the second film based...

Ahead of a January 2025 broadcast debut, the official accounts for the I'm a Noble on the Brink of Ruin, So Might as Well Try Mastering Magic anime today unveiled a new character trailer for Lardon, a powerful dragon once sealed by Liam's ancestors, voiced by Tomokazu Sugita (Gintoki in Gintama ). I'm a Noble on the Brink of Ruin, So I Might as Well Try Mastering Magic Lardon Character Trailer Related: I'm a Noble on the Brink of Ruin Anime Reveals Opening Theme Song in New Trailer Based on the light novels by Nazuna Miki and Kabocha, Kenichi Ishikura ( Sakura Trick ) directs I'm a Noble on the Brink of Ruin, So I Might as Well Try Mastering Magic at studios Marvy Jack and Studio Deen, with series composition by Tatsuya Takahashi ( The Faraway Paladin ), character designs by Midori Otsuka and Alisa Okehazama ( Beast Tamer ). J-Novel Club publishes an official English version...

If there’s one thing Gintama does flawlessly, it’s dragging the anime tropes through the mud. This series’ self-aware genius repeatedly exposes and parodies other anime productions in a hilarious and outlandish way. Similarly, one Gintama episode demonstrated peak comedy by breaking the fourth wall and turning its sights on a universal struggle in the entertainment industry: how to waste airtime.

Gintoki Sakata from Gintama | Credit: Studio Sunrise

It wasn’t just a meta-commentary — it was a masterclass in roasting anime studios while giving viewers a laugh-induced side stitch. Surprisingly, its sharpest jab landed squarely on the shoulders of major studios adapting long-running series like One Piece and many others.

Gintama Episode 92: Exposing Anime Studios’ Cliche Tricks

At the beginning of the hilarious episode 92 of Gintama, titled, Be A Person Who Can See People’s Strong Points And Not Their Weak Points, Gintoki as usual breaks the fourth...

The official accounts for the upcoming live-action movie adaptation of Hiromasa Okujima's Baban Baban Ban Vampire comedy manga series announced three new cast members today. Gordon Maeda (Yatota Yaguchi in the Blue Period live-action film) plays the role of Nagayoshi Mori, a vampire who is the elder brother of Ranmaru Mori and holds a long-standing grudge against him. Mori Nagoyoshi played by Gordon Maeda Shinosuke Mitsushima (Heki in the Kingdom live-action film) plays the role of Umetaro Sakamoto, the homeroom teacher of Rihito Tatsuno and Aoi Shinozuka, who has been pursuing Ranmaru as a vampire hunter at night for many years. Umetaro Sakamoto played by Gordon Maeda Mandy Sekiguchi (former member Generations from Exile Tribe and Exile) plays the role of Ken Shinozuka / Franken, Aoi's older brother who is the leader of a gang of school delinquents. Ken Shinozuka / Franken played by Mandy Sekiguchi Related: Baban Baban Ban Vampire Live-Action Movie Reveals Teaser Trailer,...

A fresh batch of music videos make their way to Crunchyroll today! The latest lineup of artists includes singers and bands behind theme songs for Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War - The Conflict , Lycoris Recoil and more! See what's dropping today in the full list of November 2024 music video releases below! Beat Crusaders (including the Hero Tales opening theme song ) Centimillimental (including the Given Movie 3: Umi e theme song ) ClariS Halca (including the The Stories of Girls Who Couldn't Be Magicians ending theme song ) Ikusaburo Yamazaki (including the Twilight Out of Focus opening theme song )' Kana-boon LiSA (including the Shangri-La Frontier Season 2 opening theme song ) MIMiNARI feat. Yuho Kitazawa Mulasaki Ima Reol (including the Blue Exorcist -Beyond the Snow Saga- opening theme song ) Ryokuoushoku Shakai Suisoh (including the Bleach: Thousand-Year Blood War - The Conflict ending theme song ) Takahashi Hitomi and Beat Crusaders (including the Gintama ending...

In the world of anime, Hideaki Sorachi’s Gintama is truly a gem that has taken the industry by storm. The series began in 2006 and quickly rose to immense popularity, which continues to be a delight to countless viewers even today. The show is a chaotic mess that features a parodic presence in its plotline, which makes it so unpredictable and a gold mine of pure comedic bliss.

A still from Gintama. Credits: Sunrise

While humor adds to the charm and the countless references to iconic anime series, the mangaka shares how Akira Toriyama’s one underrated gem of work helped him immensely to come up with this parodic masterpiece that takes humor to a whole other level.

During an interview, the mangaka got candid and shared how the legendary mangaka helped him get the appropriate tools to get started. As a result, he created a work that boasts heavy...

Just in time for “Ii Ossan Day” (November 3) in Japan, the upcoming TV anime Detectives These Days Are Crazy! revealed a trio of unusual characters with a single voice actor voicing each, as well as a character trailer and key art for the new cast additions. The series is scheduled to broadcast in Japan in 2025. Detectives These Days Are Crazy! Yabee Ojisan Character Trailer Voice actor Tomokazu Sugita (Gintoki Sakata in Gintama ) provides the voices for three eccentric characters: Chikubi Shishoku Ojisan , Cross Munage Ojisan , and Rope Daisuki Ojisan . Together with Keiichiro Nagumo, they form “The Big Four of Yabee Ojisan." Ascii Media Works publishes the original Detectives These Days Are Crazy! manga by Masakuni Igarashi in their Dengeki Maoh manga magazine. One Peace Books is also producing an English language version with the first volume due out in April 2025. Rion Kujo directs the TV anime adaptation. The rest of...

The official YouTube channel for the four-piece Japanese rock band Spyair is now streaming a music video for their 24th CD single song, "Ao" ("Blue"). The rock tune is now featured as the opening theme for the fall 2024 TV anime Blue Miburo . Spyair "Ao" Music Video Blue Miburo Creditless Opening Video Spyair formed in 2005 and made their major debut from Sony Music Associated Records in 2010. Among anime fans, they are known for their theme song works for Bleach (2010), Gintama , and Haikyu!! (2014-2024). As their first CD single in four years since "One Day" ( Haikyu!! To The Top ending theme) in November 2020, the CD single for "Ao" is set to release in Japan on October 30. Ahead of the CD release, the title tune is now available on digital platforms for streaming and download. Regular edition CD jacket Time-limited production edition CD jacket Spyair artist photo Related: Blue Miburo Anime Release Date,...

The official website for Saint☆Oniisan The Movie ~Holy Men Vs Akuma Gundan (translated to Saint Young Men The Movie ~Holy Men vs Devil's Army ) released a main trailer today featuring the theme song "Bitter Vacance" performed by the three-piece Japanese rock band Mrs. Green Apple . The film's two lead actors — Kenichi Matsuyama as Jesus and Shota Sometani as Buddha — also introduce the main cast members one by one in the clip. Motoki Omori , the vocalist and guitarist of Mrs. Green Apple, posted the following message on the movie's website about the song: I am a big fan of Saint Young Men from its original manga, and bought and read every time a new book came out in the bookstore when I was in junior high school. With this offer, I am feeling that I am destined for something very special. We can learn something from Buddha and Jesus' healing daily life.

The official website and X (formerly Twitter) account for the upcoming Sakamoto Days TV anime revealed three additional voice cast members today. Natsuki Hanae (Tanjiro Kamado in Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba ) plays Nagumo, a member of the Order, a special force directly under Jaa (Japanese Association of Assassins) and a colleague from Sakamoto's hitman days. Taku Yashiro (Kakeru Juouin in King Of Prism ) plays Shishiba, a cool, collected, and rational person who is also a member of the Order. And Saori Hayami (Yor Forger in Spy x Family ) plays Osaragi, a newcomer who joined after Sakamoto left the Order. Visuals and short promotional videos of the three were released, alongside an additional character video of Taro Sakamoto voiced by Tomokazu Sugita (Gintoki sakata in Gintama ). Nagumo character visual Shishiba character visual Osaragi character visual Taro Sakamoto character visual Additionally, the anime's official X account released a new...

The official accounts for the upcoming live-action movie adaptation of Hiromasa Okujima's Baban Baban Ban Vampire comedy manga series released a teaser trailer and visual today introducing the three main cast members. Ryo Yoshizawa (Sougo Okita in the Gintama live-action films) plays 450-year-old vampire Ranmaru Mori. Rihito Itagaki (Norman in The Promised Neverland live-action film) plays Rihito Tatsuno, whom Ranmaru is after for his blood. Nanoka Hara (Suzume Iwato in Suzume ) plays Rihito's first love, Aoi Shinozuka. Baban Baban Ban Vampire Live-Action Movie Teaser Trailer Teaser visual The site also confirmed that the Shinji Hamasaki -directed adaptation will open in Japan on February 14, 2025. Shinji Hamasaki has been active as a commercial director since the mid-2000s, and this is his second feature film directorial work, following Ichido Shindemita ("I Died Once") in 2020, in which Ryo Yoshizawa also appeared. "I honestly spent many days trying to figure out what the right...

Kowloon Generic Romance , a mystery romance manga series by Jun Mayuzuki ( After the Rain ), will be adapted into a TV anime and live-action movie in 2025. The official website for the adaptation project is also open today, with a trailer introducing the main cast members of both the anime and live-action. The manga has been serialized in Shueisha's Weekly Young Jump since November 2019, releasing nine tankoboon volumes to date. Yen Press, which has published the manga's English edition since August 2022, describes the synopsis: Struck by a reality they didn’t wish for, some ask, “Do I not exist in this world?” They can confirm their own presence, and Kowloon’s, and they can even smell and taste...In this town filled with secrets, Kujirai doubts her own existence. Each day is painful, but will it be different if Kudou is by her side? In the TV anime, Haruka Shiraishi (Asirpa...

Much like every entertainment property around these days, Gintama is heading into the multiverse with the upcoming 3rd Year Class Z Ginpachi-Sensei anime, adapting the spin-off light novel series by Tomohiko Osaki. Today, the official accounts for the series revealed that we’ll have to wait another year for the adaptation as it was announced that the 3rd Year Class Z Ginpachi-Sensei anime will premiere in October 2025 along with a super teaser trailer, a teaser visual and the main staff and returning cast members from the original timeline. 3rd Year Class Z Ginpachi-Sensei Super Teaser Trailer and Visual The super teaser trailer is just a small hint of what’s to come. The first full trailer is set to premiere on December 21 at the Jump Festa 2025 stage event and full character setting designs of Class 3-z to be released from sequentially from tomorrow. Related: The 3rd Year Class Z Ginpachi-Sensei...

Halloween is a great time to sit back, relax, munch on some candy and watch some creepy Halloween anime. But do you know another great time to do that? The entire month of October. But until the government legally and rightfully acknowledges October as a month-long holiday, I’m just gonna have to go ahead and do the heavy lifting myself. And that means putting together enough Halloween-themed anime episodes to keep you covered for the next 31 days. But this isn’t just a list of anime that is intended to be packed with thrills , chills and scares. No, I’m going to ease you into this month of Halloween, starting you off with some episodes that take a more joyous look at it and slowly moving you toward your haunting destiny. You’ll begin with cute parties and costume contests and end by totally questioning your own human spirit...

The official website for Cute High Earth Defense Club Eternal Love! , the upcoming all-new feature film from the Cute High Earth Defense Club Love! anime franchise, has revealed four additional voice cast members who reprise their roles in the original series. Keisuke Komoto and Yoshiki Murakami (Yuki Tachibana in My Instant Death Ability Is So Overpowered ) return as Akihiko and Haruhiko Beppu, twin brothers who perform as idols under the name VEPPer. They joined the franchise from the TV anime second season, Cute High Earth Defense Club Love! Love! Tomokazu Sugita (Gintoki Sakata in Gintama ) reprises his role as Gora Hakone, the older brother of Yumoto Hakone. Additionally, Hiroki Yasumoto (Hozuki in Hozuki's Coolheadedness ) is confirmed to play Dada Cha, who works together with VEPPer, as well as the previously reported Zundar . Related: Cute High Earth Defense Club Eternal Love! Film Confirms Return of Conquest Club Cute High Earth Defense Club Eternal Love!

Dragon Ball‘s fame has gone far and wide so much so that even grandparents from America and India are familiar with Goku and the Kamehameha. As a result, it has become a sensation in Japanese media and pop culture alike. It has become so much of a household term that even Marvel decided to reference it in its recent movie “Shang Chi”.

Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings

Its troupes set the standard for Shonen that came after. Series like One Piece, Naruto, Bleach, Hunter X Hunter, and Gintama were inspired by Akira Toriyama’s critically acclaimed manga. Love or hate it, there’s no denying that Dragon Ball has become the God of anime. It is also etched in history as it possesses one of media’s most iconic scenes.

Which series has the best moment in anime history—Dragon Ball or One Piece? Ultra Instinct...

The official website for the Under Ninja live-action film today announced two additional cast members — Shotaro Mamiya (Reinhard von Lohengramm in the Legend of the Galactic Heroes stage plays) as Kato and Mai Shiraishi (ex-Nogizaka46 member) as Suzuki. The site has also released a new trailer introducing the two. Under Ninja Live-Action Film Trailer Kato is an elite member of the ninja organization “Nin”, and he has a serious ninja mission for the protagonist, Kuro Kumogakure (played by Kento Yamazaki). "I was very happy because it had been 10 years since I had worked with Kento," said Mamiya. "I hope that I was able to create a sense of tension in Kato's quiet and unique way, and since the action scenes were filmed through trial and error with the staff, I think those are scenes worth seeing." Suzuki is also a skilled kunoichi (female ninja) who belongs to "Nin." She usually...

A new opponent has stepped onto the battlefield for the upcoming Saint Young Men live-action film! Joining the fray as the fallen angel Lucifer will be Tatsuya Fujiwara, and a new poster and video show the actor in action. Fujiwara has also appeared in the live-action Death Note films, where he played Light Yagami opposite Kenichi Matsuyama as L. Matsuyama appears as Jesus in Saint Young Men , meaning the two will be playing rivals once again! A new behind-the-scenes video shows Fujiwara as Lucifer on a green screen set, showing off a new set of demonic wings and absolutely killer nails: Related: Saint Young Men Manga Gets Live-Action Feature Film in December 2024 Lucifer also gets his own poster, showing off his unique fit: Related: Saint Young Men Live-Action Film Releases New Trailer Introducing Main Cast Members Saint☆Oniisan The Movie ~Holy Men Vs Akuma Gundan is set to release in...

We're getting ever closer to the premiere of the Dan Da Dan anime, and the latest update is here with some new cast additions for a selection of paranormal foes, as well as a new key visual and a trio of teasers. Check it all out ahead of the anime's October 3, 2024 premiere.  First up, the new cast: Flatwoods Monster voiced by Ryuzaburo Otomo (Crocodile in One Piece ) Acrobatic Silky voiced by Kikuko Inoue (Kazumi Tendo in Ranma 1/2 ) Dover Demon voiced by Tomokazu Seki (Panda in Jujutsu Kaisen ) Taro voiced by Tomokazu Sugita (Gintoki Sakata in Gintama ) Hana voiced by Fumi Hirano (Lum in Urusei Yatsura ) Flatwoods Monster voiced by Ryuzaburo Otomo (Crocodile in One Piece ) Acrobatic Silky voiced by Kikuko Inoue (Kazumi Tendo in Ranma 1/2 ) Dover Demon voiced by Tomokazu Seki (Panda in Jujutsu Kaisen ) Taro voiced by Tomokazu Sugita (Gintoki Sakata in Gintama ) Hana voiced by Fumi Hirano...

The creator of Gintama, Hideaki Sorachi is not a typical mangaka. He stands out as one of the most unorthodox creators in the manga industry. This hint of madness in his personality is witnessed in his work like Gintama, which is famous for its chaotic blend of humor, action, and deep emotional moments. Moreover, what often gets overlooked is the fact that Sorachi’s real-life motivation to become a mangaka stems from a deeper, more personal struggle — the feeling of not fitting into society.

Gintoki Sakata from Gintama | Credit: Studio Sunrise

Although somewhat bittersweet, it makes perfect sense. Fans of Gintama have probably noticed that this series doesn’t exactly stick to the rules of the Shonen world. Sorachi has turned his own shortcomings into an advantage by creating one of the quirkiest, most beloved manga of all time. Through Gintama, he created a world where misfits reign supreme.

Hideaki...

A Teaser site for 9-nine- Ruler's Crown , the upcoming TV anime adaptation of Palette's four-part visual novel series 9-nine- , has opened, announcing its premiere in 2025. The sit has also posted a key visual featuring its four heroine characters. The tagline reads: "I will repeat - as many time it takes." Key visual The main voice cast members and staff are revealed as below. The voice cast of the game series are confirmed to reprise their roles. Main voice cast include: Kakeru Niimi voiced by Atsushi Abe (Toma Kamijo in A Certain Magical Index ) Miyako Kujo voiced by Misato Fukuen ( Chibiusa/Sailor Chibi Moon in Sailor Moon Crystal ) Sora Niimi voiced by Atsumi Tanezaki (Anya Forger in Spy x Family ) Haruka Kosaka voiced by Yuri Yamaoka (Yuko Yoshikawa in Sound! Euphonium ) Noa Yuuki voiced by Akane Fujita (Sagiri Izumi in Eromanga Sensei ) Yoichi Fukazawa voiced by Kazutomi Yamamoto (Lance Lumiere...

Like most Shonen anime, Akira Toriyama’s anime franchise is ridden with controversies. This holds especially true for voice actors. Be it Masako Nozawa or the late Hiromi Tsuru, the incessant use of the same voice actors received backlash from fans. However, things might change for good this time.

Goku in a still from the series | Credit: Toei Animation

With the release of Dragon Ball Daima, new voice actors have joined the cast. The series looks as promising as the cast with the addition of Fairouz Ai in the team. This move could potentially dismantle the controversies and stereotypes surrounding the casting of voice actors.

Fairouz Ai joins the voice cast of new characters in Dragon Ball Daima

Fairouz Ai may not have a career spanning for decades but she is a seasoned and versatile voice actress. From Resident Evil to Pokemon, her career underscores her versatility and diversity as a voice actress.

Nothing is worth living for more than an adorable puppy. The anime adaptation of Rie Nishida's  Tono to Inu   (Lord and Dog) retired samurai manga released a brand new trailer today, revealing an October 10 premiere date for the first episode of the first version of the series. The other versions will be broadcast over the week following the first episode. Tono to Inu TV Anime Trailer As mentioned, the series will have multiple versions, based on the previously announced four cast members. Starting with the Akio Otsuka (Batou in Ghost in The Shell ) WanWan! version on October 10, followed by the Tomokazu Sugita (Gintoki Sakata in  Gintama ) PotePote! version on October 11, the Shunsuke Takeuchi (Alexander Yamato in  King Of Prism ) KonKon! version on October 12 and finally the Masaki Aiba (a member of the male idol group Arashi) MofuMofu! version on October 13. They will all be voicing the titular Lord in Tono...

The official website for Saint☆Oniisan The Movie ~Holy Men Vs Akuma Gundan (translated to Saint Young Men The Movie ~Holy Men vs Devil's Army ) released a new trailer today. The clip introduces the film's main cast members, including the new cast members Takayuki Yamada and Tsuyoshi Muro (however their roles have not yet been revealed). Yamada, who also serves as the producer for the film, says, "I am very happy to be able to make a film adaptation of Saint Young Men . The film's story is a 'typical' one that will be enjoyed not only by fans of the original manga, but also by those who are new to Jesus and Buddah's vacation. The cast is superb, and the two are as relaxed as ever. Watch the gods of the universe take the command!" Related: Saint Young Men Live-Action Feature Film Releases First Teaser Trailer, Visual Key visual Saint...

In the wide spectrum of the Shonen genre, Masashi Kishimoto’s Naruto is hailed as one of the best titles that will keep the audience sitting at the edge of their seats. The anime has always been a fan favorite, and its storyline has always resonated well with the fans.

Ryomen Sukuna. Credits: Mappa

The show is hailed for having a long list of characters, where some have received immense love from the fans. However, some characters got the short end of the stick. Kaguya Ōtsutsuki is one of those characters who have been immensely criticized by the fandom.

Spoiler Alert !!!The following contains spoilers to Sukuna's ending

However, the community has revised its stance regarding the main antagonist after what Gege Akutami has done with Ryomen Sukuna in Chapter 268, and The King of Curses has finally been stopped.

Gege Akutami’s Disaster Class Has Made Naruto Fans Bow Down...

Earlier this summer, it was confirmed that the trend of Gintama compilation films would continue, with a third in the series covering the show's Kintama Arc. Today, we've got a date locked in for its Japanese cinema debut: November 22 . A new poster for the compilation film also confirms the release date: Related: Gintama Anime Kintama Arc Gets Compilation Film in Fall 2024 This third film follows on from two previous compilation movies, covering the Thorny Arc and Courtesan of a Nation Arc, respectively. The Kintama Arc was told in the anime's 253rd to 256th episodes in October 2012. The story revolves around Kintoki Sakata, a stranger with straight blond hair who arrives at Odd Job Kin-chan to take the place of the protagonist Gintoki Sakata, when he is away for a long period of time. More details will be announced at a later date, including previous of special goods handed out to theatergoers.

Anime characters break the fourth wall for comedic effect, interacting with the audience and commenting on their world. Gintama stands out for its numerous fourth wall breaks, adding humor by criticizing production and referencing anime tropes. Fourth wall breaks are also seen in other anime like Fruits Basket, Pokemon, and Haruhi Suzumiya, adding humor and breaking reality.

While the genre is often known for its absurd premises and over-the-top deliveries, many anime go above and beyond that by breaking the fourth wall in the best ways. A concept with roots in theater, the fourth wall is what separates fictional characters from the real-life audience; the latter is aware of it while the former is generally not. Breaking the fourth wall is when the characters in a story become aware of their status as such, commenting on their world or the fact that theyre being watched.

Sometimes, characters will even try to interact with the audience,...

With each passing day, Eiichiro Oda, as a storyteller, and his stellar work, One Piece, are reaching new heights. The Shonen series has been airing for 25 years, and fans are still not bored of it, as the manga artist will feature an unforeseen twist in the next episode of the series.

A still from One Piece. Credits: Toei Animation

Additionally, the show features the fan-favorite protagonist, Monkey D. Luffy, who is on a quest to achieve his childhood dream, that is, becoming the King of the Pirates. The show has been at the top of the popularity charts, where none of the new-generation titles could match the fame surrounding the show.

However, there was one exception to it: Kohei Horikoshi’s My Hero Academia became an infectiously popular new-generation Shonen series that came close to matching the popularity of Oda-Sensei’s work. The veteran mangaka did not take it lightly,...

Eiichiro Oda has come a long way since One Piece first began. The series’ journey is one that not many can achieve yet he was able to do it anyway. The manga and anime are both acknowledged to be extremely lengthy. The unusual length is something that has always made it unique.

Zoro in One Piece | Credit: Toei Animation

The manga and anime always stood out due to the increasing number of chapters and episodes. So much so that it is one of the only few mangas to have over a hundred volumes with above a thousand episodes and chapters respectively. The length of the franchise can undoubtedly be intimidating but that hasn’t stopped One Piece’s fanbase from growing exponentially.

Eiichiro Oda Changed His Plans

During an interview with Kohei Horikoshi (via Edomonogatari), Eiichiro Oda admitted that his initial plans for One Piece had been nowhere near what the series ultimately became.

Gintama is the epitome of comedy anime, and Hideaki Sorachi often tests the boundaries of censorship and copyrights with it. The mangaka cares little about how it will affect hs series as long as the episode is funny and he gets to attack the anime staff with his clever jabs.

From Dragon Ball and Naruto to One Piece, Gintama has parodied some of the biggest names in the anime world. In fact, Sorachi is not afraid of calling out animation staff, Bandai Namco, and even superiors in the company through Gintoki. Gintama does not break the fourth wall because it simply does not exist in the series.

Gintama’s Aim is to Parody Every Anime on Earth

Let’s begin with one of the biggest anime, Dragon Ball. Gintama The Final, which was supposed to be the last we ever see of Gintama (a blatant lie), begins with a parody of Dragon Ball.

The official website for the upcoming TV anime adaptation of Rie Nishida's Tono to Inu comedy manga series has released a key visual. As previously reported , the anime is set to premiere in Japan in October 2024. Key visual The site has also revealed four cast members who will play the human protagonist character, Tono. The mystery of the four people cast to play Tono will be revealed in a future release of information. The four members who will play Tono include: Akio Otsuka (Batou in Ghost in The Shell ) Tomokazu Sugita (Gintoki Sakata in Gintama ) Masaki Aiba (a member of male idol group Arashi) Shunsuke Takeuchi (Alexander Yamato in King Of Prism ) Related: Tono to Inu TV Anime Debuts in October 2024 The manga first ran for four chapters on Flex Comix's web manga site Comic Polaris in March 2021. After a favorable reception, serialization began in October 2021. Three tankobon volumes...

*The photo from Intention's official website Voice actor agency Intention announced today on July 31 that Kenichi Suzumura, who had gone into a break due to health issues since May of this year, will resume work. The agency was co-established by Suzumura himself in 2012. Back on May 16 , the agency reported that Suzumura had been feeling ill and after a doctor's diagnosis, it was determined that he needed to take a break from work. His recovery was considered the top priority, and the specific name of his illness has not been disclosed. The statement reads: "Kenichi Suzumura, who has been taking a break from work due to health issues, will resume work gradually, taking into consideration his health condition. Once again, we would like to express our sincere apologies to all of you who have always supported him, as well as to all parties involved, for any inconvenience and worry this may have caused.

Have you ever wondered what would happen if your anime characters from different shows met each other? Well, it turns out that some of them actually have. While many fans are excited about big superhero crossovers like Deadpool and Wolverine, the anime world has quietly made some amazing crossovers of its own.

Deadpool and Wolverine | Marvel Studios

In this list, are the top 5 anime crossovers that you might not have known about. These are not just simple cameos or quick jokes – these are full episodes, movies, and specials where characters from different anime series come together in unexpected and exciting ways.

5. Fairy Tail x Rave Master Fairy Tail X Rave Master | A-1 Pictures

Kicking off the list is a crossover between two of Hiro Mashima’s popular works, Fairy Tail and Rave Master. This special Ova, released in 2013, brought together the casts of both series for an exciting adventure. In this crossover,...

What Is Wistoria Wand and Sword's Studio? Meet the Creators Behind Summer 2024's Surprise Hit Anime - Main Image

Wistoria: Wand and Sword is quickly becoming a fan-favorite summer anime due to its flawless animation. It also boasts smooth fighting sequences, which makes fans wonder: what is Wistoria: Wand and Sword’s studio?

Wistoria: Wand and Sword Has Two Anime Studios

Wistoria: Wand and Sword is a fantasy and adventure anime based on the Japanese manga series of the same name by Fujino Omori and Toshi Aoi.

The anime is currently ongoing as part of the summer 2024 lineup and is quickly becoming a fan-favorite show due to its compelling storyline, flawless animation, and fighting sequences, which impressed viewers early on.

Studio Actas and Bandai Namco Pictures (Bn Pictures) are listed as Wistoria: Wand and Sword’s anime studios, and they have been in the industry for a very long time now,...

The official website for the five-members Japanese rock band Aqua Timez announced on July 11 that they decided to reunite for their debut's 20th anniversary. It has been five years and eight months since the band broke up with its last concert on November 18, 2018. Their statement on the site and X (formerly Twitter) reads: "We decided to reunite out of gratitude to those who continue to listen to Aqua Timez, and with the encouragement of our staff. All the members feel that we can reunite with you all with a positive attitude toward our 20th anniversary. We will be active throughout the year 2025 with new songs and live performances, and we ask for your support." Aqua Timez was formed by Futoshi (vocal), Okp-star (bass), Daisuke (guitar), mayuko (keyboard), and Tasshi (drums) in 2003, then made their major debut from Epic Records Japan in 2006. In their 12-year career, they released 19 CD singles, eight digital singles,...

The official website for Saint☆Oniisan The Movie ~Holy Men Vs Akuma Gundan (translated to Saint Young Men The Movie ~Holy Men vs Devil's Army ) released its first teaser trailer on July 9. The clip introduces the daily life of the two main characters — Jesus played by Kenichi Matsuyama (L in the Death Note live-action film series) and Buddha played by Shota Sometani (Shinichi Izumi in the Parasyte live-action film series) — and also shows the two transform into the Super Saint Holy Men for the first time. In the film's story, guardian deities, angels, war gods, goddesses, hermits, demons and angels gather in Japan, while Jesus and Buddha transform into the Super Saint Holy Men, heroes who fight the demons that have come to rule this world. Additionally, a "Holy Men Transformation Visual" featuring Jesus and Buddha in their Super Saint Holy Men form was released. Related: Saint Young Men Manga...

The official website for the upcoming live-action film adaptation of Taro Nogizaka's psychological thriller manga Natsume Arata no Kekkon ( Natsume Arata's Marriage ) has released main trailers. As with the teaser , voice actor Megumi Ogata (Shinji Ikari in Neon Genesis Evangelion ) serves as the narrator. This new clips also feature the film's theme song, "Vampire," provided by American singer-songwriter Olivia Rodrigo. The song was originally included in her second studio album "Guts" released in September 2023. The song's music video has been viewed over 110 million times on her official YouTube channel to become one of her most well-known songs in 2023. 90-Second Version Trailer 30-Second Version Trailer The main poster visual has also been revealed. Main poster visual Related: Natsume Arata no Kekkon Manga Gets Live-Action Film in September 2024 The live-action film Natsume Arata no Kekkon is set to release in Japan on September 6, 2024. Yuya Yagira (Toshiro Hijikata in the Gintama live-action...

We're just a couple days away from the return of the Our Last Crusade or the Rise of a New World anime, and we have everything you need to know to return to the battlefield. The Our Last Crusade or the Rise of a New World Season 2 release date has been officially locked in for Crunchyroll, so look for the stream to kick off on July 10 at 7:30 a.m. Pt . In this article: Release Date and Exact Time Where to Watch Official Trailers Characters and Voice Actors Anime Staff Anime Key Visuals Plot When is Our Last Crusade or the Rise of a New World Season 2 Coming Out? English Sub Release Date: - Our Last Crusade or the Rise of a New World Season 2 premieres on July 10, 2024 at 7:30 a.m. Pt Territories: North America, Central America, South America, Europe, Africa, Oceania, the Middle East and Cis Related: Our Last Crusade or the Rise of a New World...

Following up on the earlier reveal, more info on the Guilty Gear Strive: Dual Rulers anime arrived during today's Anime Expo panel. The series is set to premiere in 2025, and you can see a new trailer along with some of the main cast members below. Guilty Gear Strive: Dual Rulers Trailer Lead cast members include: Sin Kiske voiced by Issei Miyazaki (Subaru in X ) Sol Badguy voiced by Jouji Nakata (Kirei in Fate/stay night ) Unika voiced by Yui Ishikawa (Mikasa in Attack on Titan ) Narrator voiced by Tomokazu Sugita (Gintoki in Gintama ) Related: Guilty Gear Strive: Dual Rulers Anime Series Announced Shigeru Morikawa ( Chrono Crusade ) directs the Guilty Gear Strive: Dual Rulers anime, with Norimitsu Kaiho handling scripts for the Sanzigen production. Synopsis: After the decline of the once robust fields of science and technology, a new energy source known as magic fuels the modern era. Humanity creates forbidden biological weapons: Gears.

Gintama On Theater is a project to release compilation films based on popular episodes from the Gintama TV anime series in Japanese theaters as part of the project to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the serialization of Hideaki Sorachi's Gintama manga and the broadcast of its TV anime adaptation. Following Gintama on Theater 2D Baragaki-hen , the first compilation film based on the TV anime's Thorny Arc (known as Baragaki-hen in Japan) in November 2023, the second compilation film based on the TV anime's Courtesan of a Nation Arc ( Ikkoku Keisei-hen ), began its three-week limited run in Japan on June 21, 2024. On the following day, June 22, a special stage greeting event was held at the Shinjuku Wald 9 theater in Tokyo, and four voice cast members — Tomokazu Sugita (Gintoki Sakata), Daisuke Sakaguchi (Shinpachi Shimura), Rie Kugimiya (Kagura), and Yuki Ono (Shigeshige Tokugawa) — took the stage. After the screening, it was announced that a...