The highly anticipated anime adaptation of Yu Hibari’s light novel series, Tenkō-saki no Seiso Karen na Bishōjo ga, Mukashi Danshi to Omotte Issho ni Asonda Osananajimi Datta Ken (The Neat and Beautiful Girl at My New School Was My Childhood Friend Whom I Thought Was a Boy and I Played Together With), has released its second teaser video and a new visual. The romantic comedy television series is officially slated for a 2026 premiere.
Anime Adaptation Set for 2026 Debut
The announcement of the television anime adaptation for Tenkō-saki no Seiso Karen na Bishōjo ga, Mukashi Danshi to Omotte Issho ni Asonda Osananajimi Datta Ken was initially made in September 2023. Asmik Ace recently confirmed that the series will air in Japan in 2026, building excitement among fans of the light novel and manga. While further details regarding the main staff are yet to be revealed, the new promotional materials offer a glimpse into the anime’s visual style and tone.
A Childhood Reunion with a Twist
The story centers on a high school boy named Hayato Kirishima, who transfers to a new school in the city. There, he experiences an unexpected reunion with his childhood friend, Haruki. Seven years prior, Hayato and Haruki were inseparable, with Hayato believing Haruki to be a boy. To Hayato’s surprise, his childhood friend has transformed into a beautiful, neat, and elegant girl who is now considered the class idol. Despite her refined public persona, Haruki reverts to her more boisterous and carefree self only when she is around Hayato, showcasing the unchanged dynamic of their childhood friendship.
Key Cast Member Announced
In an early casting reveal, Ikumi Hasegawa has been confirmed to voice the role of Haruki Nikaidō. Hasegawa is known for her versatile voice work, and her involvement adds another layer of anticipation for the series. Fans are eager to see how she brings the dual nature of Haruki—the “neat and pretty girl” and the “bratty young man” Hayato remembers—to life.
Origins in Light Novels and Manga
The anime is based on the romantic comedy light novel series written by Yu Hibari and illustrated by Shiso. The series began its serialization online on the Shōsetsuka ni Narō website in June 2020. Kadokawa Shoten later acquired the series, publishing it under their Kadokawa Sneaker Bunko imprint since February 2021, with nine volumes released as of August 2025. A manga adaptation, illustrated by Kina Ōyama, was also serialized online from September 2021 to June 2025 and collected into seven tankōbon volumes.
