The official website for the upcoming anime adaptation of Kazune Kawahara’s popular shojo manga, A Star Brighter Than the Sun (Taiyō Yori mo Mabushii Hoshi), has released its second promotional video, revealing a new cast member and the artist for its ending theme song. The highly anticipated romance series is set to premiere on October 2, 2025, on TBS and its affiliates.
Haruka Shiraishi Joins the Cast as Subaru Kamishiro
The newly released second promotional video confirmed that voice actress Haruka Shiraishi will be joining the cast as Subaru Kamishiro. Subaru is described as a third-year high school student and a cousin of Kōki Kamishiro, the male lead. Shiraishi, known for her diverse roles, will bring to life a character who expresses her thoughts clearly, initially appearing tough but possessing a caring nature and strong sense of justice. She also has a softer, familial side she shows only to Kōki.
Wanuka to Perform Ending Theme “Saishin-wa”
Accompanying the new character reveal, the promotional video also previewed the anime’s ending theme song, “Saishin-wa” (Latest Episode), performed by singer-songwriter Wanuka. This follows the earlier announcement that Motohiro Hata will perform the opening theme song, “Stellar Days.” The combination of these artists is expected to enhance the emotional depth of the shojo romance narrative.
A Glimpse into the Story and Production
A Star Brighter Than the Sun centers on the evolving relationship between childhood friends Sae Iwata and Kōki Kamishiro. Sae, who was always taller and stronger, finds herself falling for Kōki as he grows into a popular and handsome high school student, becoming a more distant figure. The anime will explore Sae’s journey as she grapples with her feelings and the complexities of first love.
The series is produced by Studio KAI and directed by Aya Kobayashi. Yasuhiro Nakanishi is in charge of the series scripts, while Jin Feng Zeng is designing the characters. Natsumi Tabuchi and Miki Sakurai are composing the music for the series.
Previously Announced Main Cast
Prior to this latest announcement, the primary voice cast for the main characters was already revealed:
- Minori Fujidera as Sae Iwata
- Yūki Ono as Kōki Kamishiro
- Hina Yomiya as Hisui Onodera
- Taito Ban as Yota Ayukawa
- Mutsumi Tamura as Mio Kagawa
- Ryota Osaka as Yushin Izawa
Anticipation Builds for October Premiere
The manga, written and illustrated by Kazune Kawahara, began serialization in Shueisha’s Bessatsu Margaret magazine in June 2021 and has garnered significant acclaim, including a win at the 14th an an Manga Award in 2023. Viz Media has licensed the manga for English publication, with the first volume released in March. With the world premiere having taken place at Anime Expo in July, fans are eagerly awaiting the full television debut of A Star Brighter Than the Sun on October 2, 2025.
