Ryon’s romantic comedy manga series, Jirai nandesu ka? Chihara-san (often translated as Are You a Jirai Girl, Chihara-san? or That Girl Is Cute… But Dangerous?), is officially set to receive a television anime adaptation in 2026. The announcement came via a newly launched website on Thursday, confirming earlier reports and generating excitement among fans of the quirky school comedy.
The upcoming anime adaptation has already revealed key staff and cast members, promising to bring the unique charm of the manga to life.
Production Team and Studio Behind the Adaptation
The TV anime will be helmed by director Yasuaki Fujii, known for his work as an episode director on series such as Teasing Master Takagi-san and Too Cute Crisis. The animation production will be handled by Synergy SP, a studio with a history of diverse anime productions.
Overseeing the series scripts will be Keiichirō Ōchi, whose impressive resume includes popular titles like Aikatsu! and The Quintessential Quintuplets. Character designs for the anime will be managed by Majiro, recognized for their contributions to Macross Delta and UniteUp!. The musical score for the series will be composed by Arisa Okehazama, who has previously worked on Jujutsu Kaisen, and produced at King Records.
Reprising Roles: Voice Cast Revealed
Fans will be pleased to learn that the main voice cast from earlier promotional videos for the manga will be reprising their roles in the TV anime. Sayumi Suzushiro is set to voice the titular Mai Chihara, while Kazuki Ura will portray Kuroki. This continuity in casting ensures a familiar auditory experience for those who have followed the manga’s journey.
Unpacking the “Landmine Girl” Premise
Jirai nandesu ka? Chihara-san centers on Mai Chihara, a high school student who, despite her doll-like appearance, bright red lips, red eyes, and often unhappy expression, is rumored to be a “landmine” or “jirai girl” – a Japanese term used to describe someone who appears cute but is perceived as having a potentially explosive or problematic personality.
The story unfolds when a seemingly plain and loner second-year high school student named Kuroki finds himself seated next to Mai. Initially wary due to the pervasive rumors, Kuroki soon discovers that Mai is far from the “landmine” she’s made out to be. As he observes her unexpected sides, such as her air-headedness, clumsiness, and love for cats and gyoza, his perception of her gradually softens and changes. The manga explores their developing relationship as Mai genuinely seeks to befriend Kuroki, despite his initial reluctance and lack of experience in relationships.
Manga’s Journey to Anime
Written and illustrated by Ryon, the Jirai nandesu ka? Chihara-san manga began its serialization on Comic Smart’s Ganma! web service on June 25, 2021. Ichijinsha has since compiled the series into multiple tankōbon volumes, with seven volumes released as of June 2025. The series has gained a steady following for its charming romantic comedy elements and its exploration of appearances versus reality. The collaboration with Vocaloid producer Nanahoshi Orchestra for a promotional song in 2023 and the release of a voice-acted promotional video in June 2025 further built anticipation for an anime adaptation.
The announcement of the TV anime for 2026 marks a significant milestone for the series, promising to introduce the endearing characters and their evolving dynamic to a broader audience.
