The popular comedy manga series Phantom of the Idol (Kami Kuzu☆Idol) by Hijiki Isoflavone is set to conclude with its 10th compiled book volume, which is slated for release in 2026. The announcement came via the ninth volume of the manga, which was released on July 31.
The Story of a Lazy Idol and a Spirited Ghost
Phantom of the Idol centers on Yuuya Niyodo, a member of the boy pop duo ZINGS, who is notoriously unmotivated and lazy in his idol work. His half-hearted performances and hostile attitude towards fans have put his career in jeopardy. However, his fortunes change when he encounters the ghost of Asahi Mogami, a beloved idol who tragically died a year prior. Asahi, still passionate about performing, possesses Yuuya, allowing him to maintain his idol career while she gets to live out her dream through him. This unique partnership leads to Yuuya gaining an unexpected reputation as a “strange idol.”
Publication History and International Release
Hijiki Isoflavone launched the Phantom of the Idol manga in Ichijinsha’s Monthly Comic Zero Sum magazine in December 2017. As of July 2025, nine tankōbon volumes have been released in Japan. Kodansha USA Publishing holds the North American licensing rights for the manga.
Anime Adaptation and Its Reception
The manga inspired an anime television series adaptation, which premiered in July 2022. Produced by Studio Gokumi and directed by Daisei Fukuoka, the series aired from July 2 to September 3, 2022. Sentai Filmworks licensed the anime and streamed it on HIDIVE, offering both English subtitles and an English dub. The anime ran for 10 episodes. While some fans expressed a desire for a second season, the anime’s ending was generally considered satisfying, providing a comprehensive concert finale for the duo ZINGS. The anime explored themes of what it means to be an idol, which resonated with viewers.
