The highly anticipated anime adaptation of Yuki Suenaga and Takamasa Moue’s rakugo-themed manga, Akane-banashi, has revealed a new trailer, additional cast members, and key staff, confirming its premiere in April 2026. The announcement has ignited excitement among fans eager to see the unique storytelling art of rakugo brought to life on screen.
First Look at the Akane-banashi Anime in Action
A new main trailer for Akane-banashi offers fans their most comprehensive look yet at the anime’s animation style and character interpretations. The trailer provides glimpses into the vibrant world of rakugo and the determined protagonist, Akane Osaki, as she strives to master the traditional Japanese art of comedic storytelling. Animation studio ZEXCS is producing the series, with Ayumu Watanabe (known for Summer Time Rendering) at the helm as director. The visuals in the trailer emphasize detailed and fluid movements, crucial for portraying the expressive nature of rakugo performances.
Expanding the Ensemble: New Voice Cast Members
The Akane-banashi anime has bolstered its voice cast with the addition of several prominent actors, bringing key characters to life. While Anna Nagase was previously announced as Akane Osaki, Takuya Eguchi as Karashi Nerimaya, and Rie Takahashi as Hikaru Koragi, the latest reveal introduces more talent to the Arakawa School.
The newly announced voice cast members include:
- Jun Fukuyama as Shinta Arakawa
- Nobunaga Shimazaki as Maikeru Arakawa
- Chiaki Kobayashi as Koguma Arakawa
- Yohei Azakami as Kyoji Arakawa
- Seiichiro Yamashita as Guriko Arakawa
These additions complete a strong lineup, promising compelling vocal performances for the series.
Behind the Scenes: Additional Staff Details
Beyond the directorial role of Ayumu Watanabe and animation production by Studio ZEXCS, more staff members have been confirmed to bring Akane-banashi to fruition.
The full staff includes:
- Director: Ayumu Watanabe
- Co-Director: Yu Harima
- Character Design / Chief Animation Director: Kii Tanaka
- Series Composition: Michihiro Tsuchiya
- Music: Akio Izutsu
- Rakugo Supervision: Kikuyo Hayashiya
Kikuyo Hayashiya’s involvement as rakugo supervisor is particularly noteworthy, as he also oversaw the rakugo in the original manga series, ensuring authenticity in the anime’s portrayal of the art form.
Rakugo Storytelling Set for April 2026 Premiere
The Akane-banashi anime is officially slated to begin broadcasting in April 2026. The series will air on TV Asahi’s IMAnimation programming block and BS Asahi. The manga, which has been serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump since February 2022, tells the story of Akane Osaki, a high school student aiming to reach the highest rank in rakugo to avenge her father, who was expelled from the profession. Viz Media publishes the manga in English, and it has garnered praise for its authenticity and compelling narrative, even receiving recognition from the rakugo community itself. Fans can look forward to experiencing Akane’s passionate journey through the competitive world of rakugo when the anime debuts next spring.
