After more than 4 years, Oshi no Ko is over
The popular manga "Oshi no Ko," which is published in Shueisha's Weekly Young Jump magazine, reached its final chapter earlier today, ending a serialization that began in April 2020. This work, written by Aka Akasaka (author of "Kaguya-sama: Love is War") and illustrated by Mengo Yokoyari (known for "Kuzu no Honkai"), became a success by starkly exposing the lights and shadows of the Japanese entertainment world, and resulted in a very popular animated adaptation. The story, which mixes drama and revenge, captured the attention of fans both in Japan and abroad.
To commemorate the finale, the cover of Volume 16, the last in the series, was revealed, which will be released on December 18 in two versions: a standard edition and a special edition with an alternate cover, which includes a book holder and stickers. This volume will include an additional 24 pages with a special episode that will reveal an "important secret" of the story. The special edition will also feature an exclusive design that includes glossy finish details, highlighting Akasaka and Yokoyari's dedication to fans of the series.
As part of the celebration, a commemorative video will be released on November 14 at 7 p.m. on YouTube, which will review the most iconic moments in history, accompanied by a special version of "STAR☆T☆RAIN," the song performed by the fictional group B-Komachi in the anime. In addition, a special site called "FAN ARENA" will open that same day, where fans will be able to share messages and express their love for the series and its characters.
Another highlight will be the event "Oshi no Ko THE LAST STAGE in TOKYO DOME CITY", which will be held in Tokyo Dome City starting on December 18. Under the concept of "the dream stage for all idols," the event will feature a huge special visual next to the main entrance of the Tokyo Dome, in addition to videos and messages from fans projected on screens throughout the venue.
The popularity of "Oshi no Ko" has been undeniable. The story follows twin siblings Ruby and Aqua, who seek justice after the murder of their mother, a talented idol. Ruby, inspired by her mother's legacy, makes her way into show business, while Aqua seeks revenge on her father, who was complicit in her mother's murder. With more than 20 million copies sold, the work has made an impact in both manga and anime, reaching its highest point in 2023 when YOASOBI's song "Idol", the anime's opening theme, became a phenomenon that was even presented at the NHK Kōhaku Uta Gassen.
The success of "Oshi no Ko" has led to several adaptations, including an eight-episode live-action series premiering on Prime Video on Nov. 28 and a film hitting theaters in Japan on Dec. 20. The cast includes former Nogizaka46 member Asuka Saito as Ai, Kaito Sakurai as Aqua, and former =LOVE member Nagisa Saito as Ruby. A musical in 2.5D theater format has also been announced and will be presented in December.
In addition, Aka Akasaka has confirmed that it will launch a new series in spring 2025, in collaboration with artist Aoi Kujira (author of "Geek Circle Crisis") and illustrator duo Ajichika, responsible for "Shuumatsu no Valkyrie". This new work, set in a fantasy world, will tell a love story between a prince and a princess in a fairytale style.
Source: Mantan Web
