Oshi no Ko has been a groundbreaking manga that took the anime and manga community by storm since its debut in 2020. The story, masterfully penned by Aka Akasaka—renowned for his work on Kaguya-sama: Love is War—and illustrated by Mengo Yokoyari, weaves a unique narrative that blends elements of drama, mystery, and the dark side of the entertainment industry. This intricate storyline captivated a broad audience and resonated with both long-time manga readers and newcomers. Its depiction of reincarnation, fame, and revenge set it apart from other contemporary series.
The success of Oshi no Ko isn’t limited to its gripping plot. The manga also sheds light on the toxic underbelly of the entertainment industry, providing a satirical yet heartfelt critique of idol culture in Japan. It challenges the viewer’s perception of fame and celebrity, showing how the bright lights often hide deep and unsettling shadows. This unique take on an idol-themed story quickly garnered widespread acclaim, propelling the series to the top of sales charts and fan polls alike.
Now, after four years of captivating storytelling, the series will come to a close. Fans who have been eagerly following the twists and turns in the lives of Aqua and Ruby Hoshino, the reincarnated protagonists, will see their story wrap up in just a few short weeks. On November 14, 2024, the final chapter of Oshi no Ko will be released in Weekly Young Jump, marking the end of an era for this modern manga phenomenon.
The final volume, Volume 16, is also set for release on December 18, 2024, in Japan. Fans can expect a special edition of this volume, which will include a limited-edition cover, a book stand, and collectible stickers, making it a must-have for dedicated readers of the series.
Oshi no Ko began its serialization in April 2020 in Shueisha’s prestigious Weekly Young Jump, quickly amassing a large following due to its dark and emotional narrative. The manga’s widespread appeal stems from its deep dive into the struggles of stardom, the manipulation by agencies, and the impact of fame on both the public and personal lives of idols. This critical look at the entertainment industry, combined with Akasaka’s penchant for writing emotional depth, has resonated with readers worldwide.
Internationally, the manga has been a hit as well, with Yen Press handling its English release. This has allowed fans outside of Japan to stay up-to-date with the series, contributing to its global popularity. With the manga nearing its end, there’s growing anticipation for how the story of Aqua and Ruby Hoshino will ultimately conclude, especially after all the revelations and conflicts surrounding their search for revenge and their relationships in the industry.
The anime adaptation of Oshi no Ko has also played a significant role in amplifying the series’ popularity. Produced by Doga Kobo and streaming on HIDIVE, the anime brought the manga’s characters to life with a vibrant and emotional flair. The first two seasons were well-received for their faithful adaptation of the source material, with stunning animation, direction by Daisuke Hiramaki, and an emotionally gripping soundtrack by Takurō Iga. Fans are now eagerly awaiting the third season of the anime.
The story centers on Dr. Goro Amemiya, who is reincarnated as Aquamarine Hoshino, the son of his favorite idol, Ai Hoshino, after a tragic death. His patient, Sarina, is similarly reincarnated as Ruby Hoshino, Ai’s daughter. Together, Aqua and Ruby navigate the dangerous and manipulative world of the entertainment industry, with Aqua bent on revenge for Ai’s murder. The series intertwines deep personal struggles with a critical look at the glamorous but perilous world of idols.
Here’s the main voice cast for the Oshi no Ko anime:
- Takeo Otsuka as Aquamarine Hoshino
- Yurie Igoma as Ruby Hoshino
- Megumi Han as Kana Arima
- Manaka Iwami as Akane Kurokawa
- Rumi Okubo as Mem-cho
- Lynn as Miyako Saito
- Rie Takahashi as Ai Hoshino
Fans of the series can look forward to more content beyond the manga’s conclusion. In addition to the upcoming anime’s third season, a live-action adaptation is also in development, further expanding the universe of Oshi no Ko. Given the unique nature of the story and its critical acclaim, it’s no surprise that it continues to thrive across different media formats.
While the conclusion of the manga may bring an end to one chapter of Oshi no Ko, the story will live on through its anime adaptations and live-action projects. Fans eagerly await how Aqua and Ruby’s journey will end, and what lies in store for the series as it continues to expand its influence across the globe.
Source: Official X (formerly Twitter)
©Aka Akasaka x Mengo Yokoyari/Shueisha
