Matt Schley
July 13, 2025 
MAO, the dark fantasy manga from master Rumiko Takahashi, is getting the anime treatment. A bunch of details about the upcoming anime have just been released, including its lead cast and staff, release window and promo video.
The series will begin airing on NHK in Japan in spring 2026.
Lead staff include:
Director: Teruo Sato (Yashahime: Princess Half-Demon)
Scripts: Yuko Kakihara (Cells at Work!)
Character designs/chief animation director: Yoshihito Hishinuma (Inuyasha)
Art directors: Hiroshi Kato, Izumi Hoki
Music: Shu Kanematsu
Animation: Sunrise
Cast includes:
Mao: Yuki Kaji
Nanoka Kiba: Natsumi Kawaida
Hyakka: Hiro Shimono
Kamon: Toshiyuki Toyonaga
Takahashi started MAO in Shonen Sunday back in 2019, and it’s still running today. There are currently 24 volumes available. Viz Media releases the manga in English. Here’s how they describe it:
When Nanoka travels back in time to a supernatural early 20th century, she gets recruited by aloof exorcist Mao. What is the thread of fate that connects them? Together, they seek answers…and kick some demon butt along the way!
New Rumiko Takahashi anime is always A Good Thing, though I feel they kind of missed a trick by not casting M•A•O… anyway, we’ll have more on the MAO anime as further details are revealed!
Source: Bandai Visual
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