The upcoming television anime adaptation of Mayu Murata’s popular manga Honey Lemon Soda has unveiled four new cast members. Announced on Tuesday, the additions are set to enhance the vibrant world of the series, which is scheduled to premiere in January 2025 on Fuji TV’s +Ultra programming block.
Rie Takahashi will voice Serina Kanno, an ex-girlfriend of the main character, Kai. Miyari Nemoto is cast as Ayumi Endo, Uka’s first friend. Shunichi Toki will portray Tomoya Takamine, a character with a deep understanding of Kai, and Taku Yashiro is set to play Satoru Seto, Kai’s lively friend.
The anime adaptation will feature Kana Ichinose as Uka Ishimori and Shōgo Yano as Kai Miura. Hiroshi Nishikiori, known for his work on A Certain Magical Index and IDOLiSH7 the Movie LIVE 4bit BEYOND THE PERiOD, is directing the series at J.C.STAFF. The series composition is managed by Akiko Waba, with Aimi Tanaka designing the characters and Akira Kosemura composing the music. UNLIMITED PRODUCE by TMS is responsible for the production and planning of the anime.
Mayu Murata’s manga first appeared in Shueisha’s Ribon magazine in December 2015, with the first compiled book volume released in May 2016. The manga has since accumulated a cumulative circulation of over 13 million copies as of July. Shueisha published the 26th volume on August 23. Yen Press publishes the English edition of the manga, with the seventh volume set for release on October 15.
Honey Lemon Soda tells the story of Uka Ishimori, whose middle school years have left her emotionally scarred. A chance encounter with a boy with lemon-colored hair rekindles her hope for a brighter future, suggesting that perhaps reaching out for help can make life sweeter.
The manga also inspired a live-action film adaptation in 2021, further expanding its reach and impact.