The highly anticipated “New PANTY & STOCKING with GARTERBELT” has released its fifth episode, which premiered on August 6, 2025, on platforms like Prime Video. Breaking from its usual protagonists, the episode notably spotlights side characters, particularly the Demon Sisters, and maintains the series’ characteristic “three-shorts” pacing.
The Long-Awaited Return of Panty & Stocking
After nearly 15 years since its original run, the cult-favorite anime “Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt” made its triumphant return with “New PANTY & STOCKING with GARTERBELT” in July 2025. The new season, now helmed by Studio Trigger—formed by several former Gainax employees—premiered globally on Amazon Prime Video, following a world premiere event at Anime Expo 2025. The revival sees the return of key staff, including director Hiroyuki Imaishi, Hiromi Wakabayashi on series composition and concept planning, and Atsushi Nishigori as the original character designer.
Episode 5’s Unique Focus and Segments
“New PANTY & STOCKING with GARTERBELT Episode 5,” which dropped on August 6, 2025, takes a departure from the titular Anarchy Sisters by primarily featuring the Demon Sisters, Scanty and Kneesocks. This creative choice allows for a “breather episode” that explores the show’s supporting cast. The episode is structured into three distinct shorts, a pacing that aligns with the “New” in the title, offering a rotation of fresh talent and maintaining the series’ frenetic energy.
One of the standout segments, “Bitch Serial Killer!,” has been noted for its ambitious homage to Italian exploitation cinema, specifically the Giallo genre and films by Dario Argento. While praised for its potential and initial jarringly effective opening, some reviews suggest it falls short of fully committing to its experimental visual shifts. Other shorts include Scanty and Kneesocks battling a giant sushi chef ghost amidst a hurricane, showcasing the show’s signature wild animation.
Reception and Viewer Experience
Initial reception for “New PANTY & STOCKING with GARTERBELT Episode 5” has been mixed, with some critics acknowledging its ambitious ideas and strong animation, yet pointing out moments where it “constantly holds itself back from greatness.” Despite these critiques, the episode is generally considered entertaining and well-made, albeit occasionally relying on novel references rather than groundbreaking narrative. The decision to relegate Panty and Stocking to supporting roles for this episode was seen as a bold move, offering an opportunity for deeper character development for others, though some felt the shorts “squander one of the sequel anime’s most inspired ideas.”
Streaming and Episode Schedule
“New PANTY & STOCKING with GARTERBELT” is available for global streaming on Amazon Prime Video. New episodes are scheduled to air weekly after their initial premiere. The second season is listed with a total of 13 episodes. Fans can expect further installments to continue the chaotic adventures from Daten City, following the series’ long-awaited return.
