Manga enthusiasts are abuzz with the news that Gege Akutami, the acclaimed creator of Jujutsu Kaisen, is collaborating with Yuji Iwasaki, the illustrator behind Cipher Academy, on a new short-term manga series titled “Mimojuro.” The highly anticipated series is set to debut in Shueisha’s Weekly Shonen Jump Issue #41, shipping on September 8, 2025. Akutami will be in charge of the original story, while Iwasaki will handle the illustrations.
The “Mimojuro” Collaboration: What We Know
The collaboration marks Akutami’s return to Weekly Shonen Jump following the conclusion of Jujutsu Kaisen in September 2024. Unlike his previous work where he managed both writing and art, Akutami will focus solely on the narrative for “Mimojuro,” allowing Iwasaki to bring the visual world to life. This division of labor is a notable change and has sparked considerable interest among fans.
The first chapter of “Mimojuro” is announced to be 54 pages long and will feature a color opening page. Shueisha plans to feature the new manga on the cover of Weekly Shonen Jump Issue #41. While specific plot details remain under wraps, the teaming of Akutami’s storytelling prowess with Iwasaki’s distinctive art style, known for its striking designs and cerebral storytelling in Cipher Academy, suggests a unique and potentially experimental series.
Anticipation and Expectations for the Short-Term Series
“Mimojuro” is described as a “short-term serialization,” indicating it will likely run for a limited number of chapters, possibly between 10 to 20. This format is more akin to an extended one-shot or a limited manga run rather than a sprawling saga, offering Akutami a chance for a “creative reset” and an opportunity to experiment with themes and tones in a more condensed framework.
Fans worldwide will be able to read the first chapter digitally and for free on Manga Plus. The prospect of Akutami focusing solely on writing has generated excitement, as it could allow for a more focused and intentional narrative, potentially mitigating some of the pressures of long-term weekly deadlines that can impact a mangaka’s health and storytelling.
The Creators: Gege Akutami and Yuji Iwasaki
Gege Akutami gained international acclaim for Jujutsu Kaisen, a dark supernatural battle shonen series that became a global phenomenon, occasionally surpassing One Piece in sales. Jujutsu Kaisen launched in March 2018 and concluded in September 2024, accumulating 30 volumes. The manga also inspired a successful anime adaptation, a prequel film, and a second season.
Yuji Iwasaki is best known as the illustrator for Cipher Academy (Angō Gakuen no Iroha), which was written by NisiOisin. Cipher Academy was serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump from November 2022 to February 2024, concluding with seven volumes. Iwasaki’s art in Cipher Academy was praised for its polished style and intriguing compositions, contributing to the series’ reputation for stylish and experimental storytelling.
The collaboration between these two prominent figures in the manga industry has set high expectations, with many eager to see the fresh direction Akutami will take as a pure writer, complemented by Iwasaki’s artistic vision.
