Magical Princess Minky Momo Returns After 32 Years with New Anime Film Set for 2026 Release, Teaser Trailer Revealed

The Magical Princess Minky Momo franchise is set to return with a brand-new anime film after 32 years, scheduled for theatrical release in 2026. It has been officially announced that a completely new OVA titled Magical Princess Minky Momo: Akogare no Yume he, Magokoro no Duo (JP:魔法のプリンセス ミンキーモモ 憧れの夢へ まごころの二重奏), A Heartfelt Duet will be produced. This marks the first new installment since the 1994 OVA Minky Momo: The Station of Your Memories.

A Legendary Magical Girl Series Returns

Magical Princess Minky Momo tells the story of Minky Momo, a young girl who uses magic to transform into an adult in order to help people rediscover their lost dreams. The first TV series aired in 1982, followed by a second in 1991.

Widely regarded as a foundational work in the magical girl genre, the series captivated audiences with its innovative storytelling that challenged genre conventions, as well as its high-quality animation. It became a fantasy work enjoyed by both children and adults, leading the magical girl boom of its time. Numerous OVA titles were later produced, and the series continues to receive strong support across generations.

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New Project Celebrates Studio Anniversary

This brand-new OVA is being produced to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Ashi Productions. Alongside the announcement, a teaser visual, promotional video, and staff details have been revealed.

Ayumu Watanabe serves as director, while Hiroshi Watanabe and Mari Tominaga are in charge of character design, and Deko Akao is handling the screenplay.

The teaser visual pays homage to the original series design, depicting Momo sitting on a crescent moon alongside her companions.

The teaser trailer begins with a look back at the history of Minky Momo, followed by scenes of her transformation and moments highlighting her bonds with friends, capturing the journey she has taken over the years.

Additionally, ahead of the theatrical release, the first TV series will be rebroadcast on BS NTV starting at 24:30 on April 4, building anticipation for the new film.

Staff Comments

Director: Ayumu Watanabe
For those who once dreamed alongside Momo, this will feel nostalgic. For those experiencing Momo for the first time, it will feel new.

Momo stays close to those who hold dreams in their hearts. Do you have a dream you have been nurturing? A dream you are on the verge of giving up because you cannot take that final step? A dream you once had but forgot? A dream you wish to see again?

Momo supports and encourages all dreams. The joy of pursuing dreams, the happiness of achieving them, and even the sadness of dreams that do not come true. Momo embraces all of it and brings hope.

She walks alongside you as a companion in chasing dreams. And ultimately, everyone becomes companions. That is Momo’s dream. I hope you will truly feel that passion.

Character Design: Hiroshi Watanabe
Following La Ronde in my Dream, Magical Princess Minky Momo: Hold on to Your Dreams, and The Station of Your Memories, I have once again had the honor of working on Momo’s character design.

I feel truly happy to have been continuously involved with Momo since my younger days, tracing this long journey together. I am also delighted that this new Momo will not only revive memories but also create a future.

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Yoshio Ashida, who entrusted me with the original opening animation and my first role as animation director, as well as to Ashi Productions.

With the launch of this new Minky Momo, I hope both longtime fans and newcomers will enjoy the rich history of Momo’s world. I am personally looking forward to seeing how the new staff will bring this world to life.

Character Design: Mari Tominaga
Thirty-two years is far beyond what one would call “it’s been a while.” The fact that this work can restart after such a long time truly feels like a miracle. I am grateful and happy to be part of it. Thank you very much.

To those who already know Momo and those meeting her for the first time, I hope you will enjoy it.

Screenplay: Deko Akao
As a child, my dream was to become a florist. Now, I write stories as a screenwriter.

You can have many dreams, and they continue to change. What we define as a dream, what we choose to call a dream. I realized once again that “dreams” are incredibly profound.

While working on the script, I recalled many dreams from my life that were born but never fulfilled. It made me want to embrace those dreams once more. Momo inspired me to feel that way. Thank you, Momo.

I hope this new Minky Momo gently touches your heart and strongly supports your dreams.

Story Synopsis

The land of dreams and hope, “Fenarinarsa,” exists through dream energy. However, as humans begin to lose their dreams and hopes, this energy diminishes, placing the kingdom on the brink of collapse.

As a final hope, the king sends three companions, Chamocha, Dettabook, and Pipirupi, to seek help from Minky Momo.

On her 12th birthday, Momo receives a smartphone. Through her encounter with these companions, she awakens as Minky Momo and resolves to save Fenarinarsa.

As she steadily gathers dream energy, a mysterious app begins to spread among people.

The dreams shared there are often superficial, driven by a desire for recognition and numbers. Are these truly the dreams people wish to achieve? Surrounded by things they like, is this really the ideal world?

Minky Momo, or Momo herself, begins to question the nature of people’s dreams.

Source : ORICON NEWS