In a recent development that has stirred the anime community, the staff of the television adaptation of Pom’s acclaimed web manga Senpai wa Otokonoko (This is Him or literally, Senpai is a Boy) unveiled a plethora of exciting details including the anime’s second key visual, the musical talents tasked with the opening and ending theme songs, additional staff members, and the much-anticipated premiere date slated for July 4.
The revelation that artist Kujira will be lending their voice for both the opening theme song titled Wagamama (Selfishness) and the ending theme song Are ga Koi Datta no kana (I Wonder If That Was Love) has fans buzzing with excitement. The latter will also feature another artist, whose identity will be disclosed at a later time, adding an element of mystery and anticipation to the upcoming release.
Set to air in the esteemed Noitamina programming block on Fuji TV and other channels right at the cusp of July 4, transitioning into July 5 at 12:55 a.m. JST, the anime adaptation promises to be a faithful and enthralling rendition of the manga. Furthermore, the global anime streaming giant Crunchyroll has committed to bring Senpai wa Otokonoko to a worldwide audience, ensuring fans from all corners of the globe can partake in the unfolding romance.
An advanced screening event is also on the horizon, scheduled for June 9 in Tokyo, where the first three episodes will be showcased, offering a sneak peek into the anime’s adaptation and perhaps, setting the stage for how the series will unfold.
Under the directorial finesse of Shinsuke Yanagi, known for his work on Bottom-tier Character Tomozaki and The Ryuo’s Work Is Never Done!, and with character designs and key visuals by Shōto Shinkai, the production promises a visually compelling experience. The narrative will be guided by Yoriko Tomita’s adept scripting, with Yukari Hashimoto setting the auditory tone with her musical composition.
Since its launch on the LINE Manga app in 2019, Senpai wa Otokonoko quickly rose to popularity, clinching the top spot in AnimeJapan’s “Manga We Want to See Animated” poll in 2022. Published by Ichijinsha, the manga’s narrative revolves around the complexities of young love, identity, and the trials of adolescence.
The storyline delicately unfolds around Saki, a high school student who boldly confesses her feelings to Makoto, only to discover Makoto’s closely guarded secret. The revelation does little to deter Saki’s affections but propels her into seeking advice from Ryuji, Makoto’s childhood friend, inadvertently stirring a love triangle fraught with unrequited feelings and the pursuit of true love amidst self-discovery.
With its English digital publication handled by Line Webtoon, the manga’s global reach and resonant themes have prepared the ground for what could be a captivating anime adaptation. As the premiere date draws near, the anime community waits with bated breath to see how the tender yet complex narrative of Senpai wa Otokonoko will be brought to life on screen.
