The popular Akuyaku Reijō no Naka no Hito (The One Within the Villainess) novel and manga series is getting an anime adaptation! Fans of villainess stories are rejoicing over this exciting news. Here’s everything we know so far about the upcoming anime.
What is Akuyaku Reijō no Naka no Hito?
Akuyaku Reijō no Naka no Hito is an isekai series that began as a web novel written by Makiburo on the user-generated novel publishing website Shōsetsuka ni Narō in May 2020. Ichijinsha later acquired the series, publishing it under their Ichijinsha Novels light novel imprint starting in February 2021.
The story follows Emi Kobayashi, an ordinary girl who loves otome games. She wakes up one day to find herself in the body of Remilia, the villainess of her favorite otome game, “The Star Maiden and the Knight of Salvation.” Emi tries to avoid the “destruction flags” and her own downfall but is framed by the heroine, who is also a reincarnated person. Emi is accused of trying to kill the heroine and breaking off her engagement. Overwhelmed by the shock, Emi loses consciousness, and Remilia, the original villainess, takes over, vowing revenge on those who wronged Emi.
Light Novel
- Author: Makiburo
- Illustrator: Mai Murasaki
- Publisher: Ichijinsha
- Imprint: Ichijinsha Novels
- Original Run:
- Web Novel: May 14, 2020 – May 25, 2020
- Light Novel: February 2, 2021 – present
- Volumes: 2
Manga
- Writer: Makiburo
- Artist: Nazuna Shiraume
- Publisher: Ichijinsha
- Magazine: Comic Lake (Pixiv Comic website)
- Original Run: November 19, 2021 – present
- Volumes: 5
Anime Announcement
The anime adaptation was announced on Friday, May 29, 2025, in the final epilogue chapter of Nazuna Shiraume’s manga adaptation. The announcement specified that the anime will adapt both the novel and the manga. However, the format of the anime (e.g., TV series, movie, OVA) has not yet been revealed.
Plot
The story centers on Emi Kobayashi, a typical otome game enthusiast, who suddenly finds herself reincarnated as Remilia, the villainess in the game “The Star Maiden and the Knight of Salvation.” Emi desperately tries to avoid her character’s predetermined tragic end and the game’s world’s destruction. However, despite her best efforts, the heroine, also a reincarnated individual, frames her for crimes she didn’t commit, leading to the breaking of her engagement.
When Emi is at her lowest, the original Remilia awakens within her, fueled by a burning desire for revenge against the heroine and her former fiancé, the second prince. The anime will likely follow Remilia as she navigates the world, using her cunning and intelligence to exact revenge and protect the innocent Emi.
What to Expect From the Anime
- Isekai Tropes: The anime will delve into classic isekai tropes, such as reincarnation, otome game settings, and villainess redemption arcs.
- Revenge Story: A significant portion of the anime will focus on Remilia’s quest for revenge, showcasing her strategic mind and ruthless actions.
- Dual Protagonist: The dynamic between Emi and Remilia, two distinct personalities sharing one body, will be a key element of the story.
- Twisted Personality: Remilia’s “twisted” personality often seeps through, adding a comedic element to the narrative.
- Stunning Art: The manga is known for its beautiful art style, and hopefully, the anime will capture the same visual appeal.
Reception
The manga adaptation has received positive attention, including nominations for the Next Manga Awards in 2022 and 2023. It also ranked among the top manga in the “Manga We Want to See Animated” poll by AnimeJapan in 2025.
Other Isekai Villainess Anime
Akuyaku Reijō no Naka no Hito joins a growing list of popular isekai villainess anime, including:
- My Next Life as a Villainess: All Routes Lead to Doom!
- I’m the Villainess, So I’m Taming the Final Boss
- Akuyaku Reijou Nanode Last Boss Wo Kattemimashita
These series typically feature a protagonist who is reincarnated as a villainess in an otome game and tries to change their fate.
Release Date and Streaming Information
As of May 30, 2025, no release date or streaming information has been announced for the Akuyaku Reijō no Naka no Hito anime. Keep an eye on official announcements for more details. Once the release date is revealed, it will be available on Crunchyroll and other streaming platforms.
Other Recent Isekai Anime Adaptations
- Akuyaku Reijo Tensei Oji-san (The Old Guy’s Reincarnation as the Villainess Daughter): A comedic fantasy isekai manga about an older man reincarnating as a villainess daughter is being adapted into a television anime.
- Tales of Wedding Rings: An anime television series adaptation produced by Staple Entertainment aired from January to March 2024. A second season has been announced.
Final Thoughts
The anime adaptation of Akuyaku Reijō no Naka no Hito is highly anticipated by fans of the isekai and villainess genres. With its intriguing plot, complex characters, and potential for stunning visuals, this anime promises to be a must-watch. Stay tuned for more updates on the release date, cast, and streaming information.
