Shocking Twist Revealed in Episode 1 of Original Anime Turkey! Time to Strike – Five New Cast Members Including Noriko Hidaka and Yuko Minaguchi Announced

The original TV anime Turkey! Time to Strike premiered on July 9 on Nippon TV and other networks (Wednesdays at 1:29 AM JST), and with its first episode, a major plot twist was finally unveiled. Alongside this, the second promotional video and third key visual were released, revealing that the story follows five members of the Ikokkukan High School bowling team from Nagano Prefecture who unexpectedly time-travel to the Sengoku period. There, they encounter the Tokura family, setting the stage for an emotional and action-filled tale of youth and connection.

Produced by BAKKEN RECORD and set in Chikuma City, Nagano Prefecture, the anime was initially described merely as a coming-of-age story centered around the high school bowling club. However, the premiere episode revealed the surprising time-travel element that defines the true core of the story.

The newly released third key visual features the five bowling club members alongside the Tokura family, surrounded by flames and bearing solemn expressions. Five new cast members were also revealed: Noriko Hidaka as Sumomo, Yuko Minaguchi as Akebi, Kikuko Inoue as Suguri, Miki Ito as Anzu, and Rei Sakuma as Natsumeterm-list.
In addition, a Blu-ray release has been confirmed. Volume 1 is scheduled for release on November 19, with Volume 2 following on January 28, 2026. The packages will include special features such as an exclusive illustrated jacket by character designer Airi Takekawa, a deluxe booklet, and cast and staff audio commentary.

The anime's opening theme song, “Hyakunichisou,” was released for streaming at midnight on July 9. Performed by the five members of the Ikokkukan High School bowling team, the song features lyrics and composition by Yuho Kitazawa of Q.I.S., and it embodies the anime's characters and emotional tone.

Cast Comments

Noriko Hidaka (Sumomo)
“Playing a Sengoku-period princess is such a dream! And since I got to perform alongside dear friends of my generation, recording was a blast. I hope you’ll enjoy watching how the princesses and the high school girls form bonds and grow together.”

Yuko Minaguchi (Akebi)
“I’ve been eagerly looking forward to the premiere of Turkey!. I hope many people will witness the brilliant, earnest journey of these girls. I’m so, so happy to be part of this show as Akebi.”

Kikuko Inoue (Suguri)
“I was honored to take on the role of the dignified Suguri, a warrior wielding a sword. The gripping story, radiant characters, and timeless emotional connections deeply moved me time and again. This is a truly special work—please watch it to the very end!”

Miki Ito (Anzu)
“I’m so grateful to be part of this wonderful series. It’s a tale that’s ticklish, heart-wrenching, exciting, and even anxiety-inducing—but above all, warm. Please enjoy the charming ups and downs of these girls' summer tale!”

Rei Sakuma (Natsume)
“The story goes far beyond anything I expected, and I think it will only draw viewers in deeper with each episode. The way the girls face themselves, push through, and grow is refreshing and inspiring—it reminded me of the incredible power of belief.”

Source : ORICON NEWS