Joseph Luster
August 4, 2025 
An anime adaptation has been revealed for writer Yuki Suenaga and artist Takamasa Moue’s acclaimed rakugo manga Akane-banashi. The series, which currently runs in the pages of Weekly Shonen Jump, is scheduled to broadcast in Japan sometime in 2026, and a teaser trailer is here along with a visual and the first info on the cast and staff behind it.
Ayumu Watanabe directs the Akane-banashi anime, with Yu Harima as assistant director, Kii Tanaka as character designer and chief animation director, Michihiro Tsuchiya as series composition writer and Akio Izutsu on music. Kikuhiko Hayashiya serves as rakugo supervisor for the ZEXCS production.
The lead cast includes Anna Nagase as Akane Osaki, Takuya Eguchi as Karashi Nerimaya and Rie Takahashi as Hikaru Koragi.
Akane-banashi Anime Teaser
Teaser visual:
©Yuki Suenaga, Takamasa Moue / SHUEISHA, Akane-banashi Committee
Here’s the official synopsis:
“With only your voice and body—master the art.”
Akane Osaki, captivated since childhood by the magical performances of her father, Shinta Arakawa, witnesses a shocking incident during his decisive performance for promotion to shin’uchi (master rank).
Six years later, now a high school student, she sets her sights on becoming a shin’uchi herself—pushing forward in the highly competitive world of rakugo.
A passionate and authentic rakugo drama begins now!
Look for more Akane-banashi at an Anime NYC 2025 panel later this month. Shueisha editor Seisuke Araki and TV Asahi producer Kazuki Endo will be in attendance for an early behind-the-scenes look at the adaptation.
Source: Press release
