The beloved manga series xxxHOLiC, created by the all-female Japanese manga artist group CLAMP, is making a highly anticipated return. After nearly a decade of hiatus, the sequel, xxxHOLiC Rei, is set to resume publication in April 2025, much to the delight of fans worldwide. This marks a significant moment for the supernatural manga, which has captivated readers with its unique blend of mystery, fantasy, and intricate storytelling.
A Look Back at the Original xxxHOLiC
The original xxxHOLiC manga series was serialized in Kodansha’s Weekly Young Magazine from February 2003 to March 2010, before moving to Bessatsu Shōnen Magazine where it concluded in February 2011. The manga comprises 19 volumes and 213 chapters, and follows the story of Kimihiro Watanuki, a high school student with the ability to see spirits, and Yūko Ichihara, a powerful witch who owns a wish-granting shop. Watanuki, plagued by his ability, stumbles upon Yūko’s shop and seeks her help to rid himself of this unwanted gift. In exchange for granting his wish, Watanuki becomes Yūko’s part-time employee, leading him into a world of supernatural phenomena and complex moral dilemmas.
Thematic Depth and Unique Art Style
xxxHOLiC stands out for its thematic depth, exploring concepts like fate, free will, and the consequences of desires. It often presents a world where nothing is as it seems and where choices have significant ramifications. The series intertwines with CLAMP’s other work, Tsubasa: Reservoir Chronicle, creating a rich, interconnected universe. CLAMP’s distinctive art style, characterized by elegant lines and detailed designs, is another key element of the manga’s appeal, praised by fans for many years.
The Sequel: xxxHOLiC Rei
Following the success of the original series, CLAMP announced xxxHOLiC Rei in 2013. This sequel was intended to further explore the themes and characters introduced in the first series. However, xxxHOLiC Rei‘s publication has been far from smooth. After a promising start, the manga went into its first hiatus in 2014, returning in 2015 for a period of irregular serialization. By 2017, it entered an indefinite hiatus, leaving fans uncertain about its future.
The Long Hiatus and the Road to Return
The long hiatus of xxxHOLiC Rei has been a source of frustration for fans, many of whom had been eagerly anticipating the continuation of Watanuki’s journey. There was a glimmer of hope in 2022, when a print edition of the Official Comic Guide xxxHOLiC: Rei announced that the manga would return in spring 2023, but this date came and went without new chapters. Finally, in January 2025, it was officially announced that the manga would resume serialization on April 21, 2025, in the 21st issue of Kodansha’s Weekly Young Magazine. This news has been met with widespread excitement and relief across the manga community.
What to Expect from xxxHOLiC Rei’s Return
The return of xxxHOLiC Rei promises to bring back the unique blend of supernatural intrigue, philosophical questioning, and stunning art that made the original series so popular. The sequel continues to focus on Kimihiro Watanuki and his ongoing relationship with Yuko, the space-time witch. Set in her mysterious shop, where wishes are granted in exchange for a price, Watanuki is expected to delve deeper into the secrets of the supernatural world. Readers anticipate that the new chapters will explore the consequences of his choices and the mysteries surrounding the interconnected world that CLAMP has created.
Themes and Character Development
Fans can expect the continuation of the series’ exploration of themes such as fate, free will, and the balance between desires and their costs. The sequel is also likely to delve further into the characters’ development, particularly Watanuki’s growth as he navigates the complexities of his position in Yuko’s shop. With the series returning to its original publication magazine, Weekly Young Magazine, there is anticipation that the new chapters will also maintain the series’ mature, introspective tone.
The Impact of xxxHOLiC
xxxHOLiC has left a lasting impact on the manga and anime world. Its unique blend of supernatural elements with a touch of dark fantasy and philosophical themes has garnered a devoted following. The series’ influence can be seen in various adaptations, including an anime film, two television anime seasons, several original video animations (OVAs), a live-action television series, and a live-action film.
Adaptations and Cross-Media Presence
The anime adaptations of xxxHOLiC, produced by Production I.G, are highly regarded, with fans praising their faithful representation of CLAMP’s unique art style and the series’ complex narrative. The original anime series, titled xxxHOLiC, aired in 2006, followed by a second season, xxxHolic: Kei in 2008. The live-action adaptations, including a television drama series in 2013 and a live-action film in 2022, demonstrate the manga’s appeal beyond its original format. There has also been a stage play adaptation. These diverse adaptations highlight the series’ enduring popularity and its ability to translate across different media.
A New Chapter for xxxHOLiC
The return of xxxHOLiC Rei is not just a comeback; it is a new chapter in the legacy of this influential series. After years of waiting, fans will finally have the chance to continue their journey with Watanuki and Yūko. The manga’s unique combination of intricate storytelling, striking visuals, and profound themes make it a must-read for newcomers and a highly anticipated event for long-time followers. As April 2025 approaches, excitement continues to build for the return of this beloved series, marking a significant moment in the world of manga and anime. The series is expected to pick up where it left off in 2017, and continue its blend of the supernatural with a fantastical and mysterious world, solidifying its place as a unique and unforgettable manga series.
