The classic shoujo manga Hana-Kimi is about to get a new anime adaptation with a major advantage for international fans. With a worldwide premiere scheduled for January 2026, the series will have its English dub released on the same day as the original Japanese episode, a rare move that promises to please the global fanbase. Production is handled by studio Signal.MD, while the Crunchyroll platform will be responsible for simultaneous broadcasting in various regions, including all of South America.
This new animated version serves as a tribute to the definitive work of the late mangaka Hisaya Nakajo, who passed away in October 2023 due to a heart condition. The narrative, which follows a girl who disguises herself as a man to study at an all-boys school, has marked generations since its original publication between 1996 and 2004. Therefore, expectations are high to see how the studio will modernize this icon without losing its essence.
A Weighty Production and Elite Soundtrack
Behind the scenes, direction is by Natsuki Takemura, with assistance from Shigeru Ueda, known for his work on ‘To Love-Ru’. Meanwhile, the scripts are signed by Takao Yoshioka, the same writer from ‘Horimiya: The Missing Pieces’. Furthermore, the soundtrack promises to be a highlight, as the super duo YOASOBI is responsible for both the opening ‘Adrena’ and the ending ‘Baby’. Thus, fans can expect an immersive audiovisual experience from the very first seconds.
The English dub also receives special attention, with Jad Saxton directing and an experienced team handling the script adaptation. In Brazil, Crunchyroll usually makes episodes available with Portuguese subtitles shortly after the premiere, but there is still no confirmation about a pt-BR dub. The premiere in Japan will be on a national network, airing on channels such as Tokyo MX, BS11, and MBS.
The Legacy of Hana-Kimi and Its Adaptations
Before this anime, the ‘Hana-Kimi’ story had already conquered screens in live-action format. The work gained two Japanese series, in 2007 and 2011, with the latter starring idol Atsuko Maeda from the group AKB48. Additionally, there were adaptations in South Korea and Taiwan, proving the universal appeal of its plot. With this new animated version, the franchise gains renewed momentum to win over an audience that perhaps wasn’t even born when the original manga was published.
Thus, the premiere of ‘Hana-Kimi’ in 2026 is not just the return of a beloved story, but a celebration of Hisaya Nakajo’s legacy. With careful production, a weighty soundtrack, and the convenience of simultaneous dubbing, everything indicates that the anime has all it takes to move both nostalgic fans and new viewers. So, mark your calendars: this is one of the most anticipated anime releases of the beginning of this year.
