Akane Banashi Season 2 Confirmed for January 2027, New Apprentice Training Arc PV Revealed

Akane Banashi Season 2 has officially been announced and is set to premiere on the TV Asahi network in January 2027. Alongside the announcement, a new promotional video for the Apprentice Training Arc was released, introducing several new characters and cast members.

The newly announced cast includes:

Hochu Otsuka as Miroku Kashiwaya
Ryotaro Okiayu as Shomei Tsubakiya
Hiroshi Naka as Enso Sanmeitei
Mutsumi Tamura as Urara Ransaika
Shinichiro Miki as Ryuun Kenputei
Tomokazu Seki as Chocho Konjakutei

Akane Begins Her Journey as a Rakugo Performer

Season 2 follows Akane after graduating from high school and officially becoming a disciple of Shiguma Arakawa. Taking the professional name Akane Arakawa, she begins her training as a rakugo performer in the Apprentice Training Arc.

As Akane pursues her dream of reaching the highest rank in the rakugo world, known as Shinuchi, she faces new challenges and experiences that will shape her growth as a storyteller.

About Akane Banashi

Based on the manga that began serialization in Weekly Shonen Jump in February 2022, Akane Banashi tells the story of Akane, a young girl inspired by her father's seemingly magical rakugo performances. Following a pivotal event in her father's career, she decides to pursue the art of rakugo herself.

At age 17, Akane strives to become a Shinuchi, the highest rank awarded to rakugo performers. The series follows her rigorous training and the many obstacles she must overcome to achieve mastery.

The manga has earned widespread acclaim, including:
2nd place in Manga Taisho 2023
3rd place in the Comics Category of Next Manga Awards 2022

The series is also notable for its close collaboration with the rakugo community. Special promotional videos featuring eight professional rakugo performers, including Kikuo Hayashiya and Kyotaro Yanagiya, were released to promote the manga. The project has received support from professional storytellers, the Japan Rakugo Association, and the Asakusa Engei Hall.

Cast Comments

Hochu Otsuka (Miroku Kashiwaya)
"I have been given the opportunity to play Miroku Kashiwaya in this production. As a Living National Treasure and a great Shinuchi who stands at the top of the largest faction, he is an extremely significant character. I already feel the weight of the role and am deeply nervous, but I will do my utmost to bring him to life. Thank you for your support."

Ryotaro Okiayu (Shomei Tsubakiya)
"I am honored to play Shomei Tsubakiya. Taking on a role that resembles a rakugo master is quite humbling. I even visited Suehirotei for the first time to prepare. A similar scene appears much later in the original manga. I've also finished reading the source material. I'll continue building my enthusiasm while watching the anime."

Hiroshi Naka (Enso Sanmeitei)
"I was curious about who inspired the character Enso Sanmeitei, and when I discovered that he was modeled after Sanyutei Ensho, I was amazed. Ensho is actually my favorite rakugo performer. I own DVDs of many of his performances. One of my favorites is 'Kurihashi-juku' from Botan Doro. The scene where Omine treats Kyuzo the horse driver to drinks and learns about her husband's affair is masterfully performed. His storytelling style is truly captivating. If you have the chance, I highly recommend watching his work."

Mutsumi Tamura (Urara Ransaika)
"I will be playing Urara Ransaika. Urara is not only beautiful and glamorous, but also possesses remarkable determination and intensity, dedicating her entire life to her art. The recording sessions have been carefully conducted so that we can properly convey her strength and elegance. Rakugo training is challenging, but I am enjoying it. I will do my best to deliver a wonderful portrayal of Urara."

Shinichiro Miki (Ryuun Kenputei)
"When I was a child, I often watched rakugo programs on television and loved them. I am thrilled and excited to participate in that world as one of its characters. Thank you for your support."

Tomokazu Seki (Chocho Konjakutei)
"My name is Tomokazu Seki, and I will be playing Chocho Konjakutei. I love rakugo and have been watching the anime in real time since it started. The human drama is incredibly compelling, and many aspects remind me of my own early days in the industry. As one of the uniquely colorful storytellers in the series, I will do my best to convey Chocho's charm. Please look forward to the broadcast."

Source : ORICON NEWS