A new anime adaptation of the iconic manga Fist of the North Star (Hokuto no Ken) has officially revealed its title as Hokuto no Ken -Fist of the North Star- and is slated to begin airing and streaming in 2026. This announcement coincides with the series’ 40th anniversary, marking a significant return for the beloved franchise.
The upcoming anime is described as a new adaptation that will feature an all-new cast of voice actors and creators, utilizing the latest animation technology to bring the post-apocalyptic world of Kenshiro to life. The production aims to faithfully adapt the original work, a sentiment echoed by author Buronson, who expressed his anticipation for how the advanced animation technology will “cook-up” Fist of the North Star. Illustrator Tetsuo Hara also conveyed his joy, noting how voice actors are carefully reading the manga to embody the characters, and eagerly awaits seeing his artwork “rage back to life on screen”.
More details, including a teaser promotional video and announcements regarding the main cast, are expected to be unveiled at the Warner Bros. Japan industry panel at Anime Expo 2025. This event is scheduled for July 5, 2025, in Los Angeles.
The Legacy of Fist of the North Star
The original Fist of the North Star manga, written by Buronson and illustrated by Tetsuo Hara, was serialized in Shueisha’s Weekly Shonen Jump magazine from 1983 to 1988. The story is set in a world devastated by nuclear war and centers on Kenshiro, a master of the deadly martial art Hokuto Shinken, as he wanders the wasteland protecting the innocent from violent thugs.
The manga’s immense popularity led to a two-season television anime adaptation produced by Toei Animation, which aired from 1984 to 1988 and comprised a total of 152 episodes. The series became a cultural phenomenon, achieving a peak viewership rating of 23.4% and becoming famous for Kenshiro’s iconic line, “You are already dead.”
Beyond the initial anime series, the Fist of the North Star franchise has expanded significantly to include several anime films, original video animations (OVAs), video games, a live-action film, a stage play, and various spin-off manga and anime. The manga itself has sold over 100 million copies worldwide, solidifying its place as one of the best-selling and most influential manga series of all time.
The last major anime adaptation was a series of OVAs and movies released between 2006 and 2008, making this new 2026 series the first Fist of the North Star anime in 18 years. The anticipation for this new project is high, with fans eager to see how a modern take on the classic tale will unfold.
