The upcoming television anime adaptation of Matsurika Kanriden (The Tale of the Scholar-Official Matsurika) has unveiled its primary promotional video, offering a first look at the series alongside the reveal of its opening theme song. The track, titled "Hana Hanashi," is performed by the rock band KANA-BOON.
Alongside the musical reveal, the production team announced three additional cast members joining the project: Takeo Ōtsuka will voice Tenga Rei, Kōtarō Nishiyama joins as Shisei Hō, and Shō Komura takes on the role of Shunsetsu Shō. They join previously announced leads Rie Takahashi, who stars as the memory-gifted court lady Matsurika Kō, and Nobunaga Shimazaki, who portrays the infatuated Emperor Hakuyō.
Set to debut in January 2027, the series will broadcast on Tokyo MX, MBS, TV Aichi, and BS11. The production is helmed by director Yūichi Nakazawa at studio Maho Film, with industry veteran Takeshi Mori serving as supervising director. The series composition is handled by Tōko Machida, known for her work on Lucky Star, while character designs are provided by Manami Inose.
Based on the light novel series by Rinne Ishida and illustrator Izumi, the story follows Matsurika as she navigates the complexities of the imperial court after an unexpected encounter with the Emperor. With the original light novels spanning 18 volumes and a successful manga adaptation currently in its second part, the franchise has solidified its popularity with over 2 million copies in circulation.
