Due to changes in programming by the Japanese broadcaster, The Apothecary Diaries will not air a new episode on May 16. Episode 43 is scheduled to broadcast on May 23 instead. In its place, Japan’s streaming platform ABEMA has released a special program titled "Palace Boys’ Night In SP," marking the series’ first all-male cast feature. The special sees the voice actors—Takeo Otsuka (Jinshi), Katsuyuki Konishi (Gaoshun), Tatsumaru Tachibana (Basen), and Toshiyuki Toyonaga (Lakan)—reflecting on the second season and sharing insights into the anime’s appeal.

Before recording, the cast reportedly agreed to “go with the vibe of an all-boys school,” kicking off the program with high energy. Toyonaga, who plays Lakan and debuted in Episode 42, expressed delight at fans’ reactions: “Although I’ve only appeared in one episode so far, I was happy to see responses to the opening sequence.”

The program also included a review of the story so far. Looking at the character relationship chart, Konishi exclaimed, “It’s really grown!” Otsuka added, “We finally heard the words ‘Emperor’s younger brother, Ka Zuigetsu’” noting that Jinshi’s true identity had been revealed. He also pointed out the intriguing relationship developments: “Since Lakan and Lahan are adoptive father and son, that would make Maomao a relative, too.”

Tachibana described Basen as “a straightforward guy who struggles to adapt but is good at heart.” He added, “It was fun to show his father-son dynamic with Gaoshun, especially when Masan got smacked.” Konishi chimed in warmly, “He’s clumsy, but he tries so hard.”

Toyonaga noted that he was told Lahan is “a pervert with a knack for numbers,” and mentioned learning from Takuya Kirimoto’s performance as Lakan, highlighting the continuity in acting.

The “ABEMA Comment Ranking” segment ranked fan-favorite scenes by episode. The cast was surprised to find that a lighter moment from Episode 39, where characters eat ice cream, outranked the serious events of Episode 40. “Maybe it was too serious for people to comment,” analyzed Tachibana, bringing a laugh to the studio.

In the second half of the program, the cast participated in a game called “Even Non-Maomao Can Tell! Palace Boys Ranking Showdown,” where they had to distinguish between different foods while blindfolded like Maomao and Jinshi. They tried mushrooms, honey, and water—only Ōtsuka guessed the premium water correctly. “I thought it was fancy since I rarely drink it,” he said, while the others commented that it was “easy to drink.”

The show concluded with messages from the cast. Toyonaga encouraged viewers to stay tuned: “Things will get deeper in the second half—look forward to how Lahan navigates it all.” Tachibana added, “The upcoming episodes feature serious developments, unseen sides of the characters, and new faces.”

With the male cast sharing laughs and heartfelt thoughts, the special highlighted the cast’s affection for the series, further building anticipation for what’s to come in The Apothecary Diaries Season 2.

About The Apothecary Diaries

This captivating mystery-drama follows Maomao, the eccentric apothecary’s daughter obsessed with poisons and medicines, and Jinshi, a beautiful yet enigmatic eunuch. Together, they solve a series of perplexing cases within the imperial court. The series is based on the original novels by Natsu Hyūga, with illustrations by Touko Shino.

The anime's first season, which aired in October 2023, captivated audiences with Maomao’s spirited heroine, engaging mysteries, and intricate human drama within the rear palace. The series consistently ranked high across streaming platforms.

In Season 2, tensions escalate in the imperial palace with the announcement of Empress Gyokuyou’s pregnancy. Adding to the intrigue are the arrival of Consort Rouran, daughter of a key minister from the previous emperor’s era, an unprecedented unresolved attempt on Jinshi’s life, and the disappearance of suspect Sui Reiyuu. Foreign delegations and special envoys with unreasonable demands further complicate matters, leading to a crisis that threatens the entire nation.