The highly anticipated anime adaptation of Teren Mikami’s yuri romantic comedy light novel series, “There’s No Freaking Way I’ll Be Your Lover! Unless…” (Japanese: わたしが恋人になれるわけないじゃん、ムリムリ！ （※ムリじゃなかった!?）), also known as “WATANARE,” is finally making its debut on July 7th. Recent updates have revealed a treasure trove of information, including additional cast members, the opening and ending theme songs, and a captivating new promotional video. Here’s everything you need to know to get hyped for this hilarious and heartwarming series!
What’s the Story About?
“WATANARE” spins a tale of high school romance, friendship, and a whole lot of confusion. Renako Amaori, after a lonely junior high experience, enters high school determined to reinvent herself as a normal girl with normal friends. She quickly catches the eye of Mai Oduka, a popular, confident, and gorgeous fashion model. Despite their contrasting personalities and backgrounds, Renako and Mai forge a close friendship.
However, Renako’s world turns upside down when Mai confesses her romantic feelings! Renako, convinced that they’re better off as best friends, tries to dissuade Mai. But Mai is equally determined to prove that they are destined to be lovers. What ensues is a hilarious and chaotic battle of wills as the two navigate the complexities of their evolving relationship. Expect fake dating, real feelings, competitive dynamics, and one very overwhelmed girl caught in the middle!
The Latest Updates: Cast, Songs, and More!
New Cast Members Announced
The cast is expanding with the addition of two new voice actors:
- Mayu Sagara as Haruna Amaori: While not initially listed in earlier announcements, Mayu Sagara joins the cast as Haruna Amaori.
- Kana Ichinose as Satsuki Koto: Kana Ichinose will be voicing the character Satsuki Koto.
- Takako Tanaka as Kaho Koyanagi: Takako Tanaka is also joining the cast as Kaho Koyanagi.
These new additions promise to bring even more depth and humor to the already colorful cast of characters.
The previously announced main cast includes:
- Kanna Nakamura as Renako Amaori: The protagonist, a high school student determined to have a normal and fulfilling high school life.
- Saori Onishi as Mai Oduka: A popular, confident, and beautiful fashion model who falls for Renako.
- Yukari Anzai as Ajisai Sena: A close friend of Renako and Mai, adding to the dynamic of their group.
Theme Songs Revealed
Music is essential to any anime, and “WATANARE” is hitting all the right notes with its theme songs:
- Opening Theme: “Muri Muri Evolution” (The Impossible Theory of Evolution) by Nanawo Akari. The song promises to be an upbeat and energetic track.
- Ending Theme: Philosophy no Dance will be performing the ending theme song.
Premiere Date and Where to Watch
“There’s No Freaking Way I’ll Be Your Lover! Unless…” is scheduled to premiere on July 7th. In Japan, it will air on TOKYO MX and other networks at 1:00 AM JST.
Who’s Behind the Anime?
The anime adaptation is being brought to life by a talented team:
- Original Work: Teren Mikami (writer) and Eku Takeshima (illustrator)
- Director: Natsumi Uchinuma
- Series Composition/Script: Naruhisa Arakawa
- Character Design: kojikoji
- Chief Animation Directors: Misaki Kaneko, Haruki Moriya, Takashi Shiokawa, Kino Tokino, and Keinosuke Ami
- Art Directors: Yuri Takagi and Keito Watanabe
- Music: Yoshiaki Fujisawa
- Animation Production: Studio MOTHER
More About the “WATANARE” Universe
Light Novel
Written by Teren Mikami and illustrated by Eku Takeshima, the light novel series began publication in February 2020 under Shueisha’s Dash X Bunko imprint. As of December 2024, the series has seven volumes. Seven Seas Entertainment licenses the light novel for English release in North America.
Manga
A manga adaptation, illustrated by Musshu, started serialization on Shueisha’s Dash X Comic section of the Niconico Seiga website on May 15, 2020. As of September 2024, the manga also has seven collected volumes. Like the light novel, Seven Seas Entertainment has licensed the manga for English release in North America.
Themes and Genre
“WATANARE” falls squarely into the yuri (girls’ love) and romantic comedy genres. It explores themes of friendship, love, identity, and the challenges of navigating relationships in high school. The series is known for its comedic timing, relatable characters, and heartwarming moments.
Why You Should Watch “WATANARE”
If you’re a fan of yuri anime, romantic comedies, or just enjoy a good laugh, “There’s No Freaking Way I’ll Be Your Lover! Unless…” is definitely worth checking out. With its engaging storyline, lovable characters, and top-notch production values, this anime promises to be a highlight of the Summer 2025 season.
- Unique Premise: The series offers a fresh take on the yuri genre with its focus on the evolving dynamic between Renako and Mai.
- Relatable Characters: The characters are well-developed and relatable, making it easy to invest in their stories.
- Humor and Heart: “WATANARE” strikes a perfect balance between laugh-out-loud comedy and genuinely touching moments.
- Strong Production Values: With Studio MOTHER at the helm, the anime boasts high-quality animation, character designs, and music.
Final Thoughts
Mark your calendars for July 7th and get ready to dive into the world of “There’s No Freaking Way I’ll Be Your Lover! Unless…” With a talented cast and crew, catchy theme songs, and a hilarious and heartwarming story, this anime is sure to be a hit. Will Renako and Mai become lovers, or will they remain just friends? Tune in to find out!
