Fans of figure-skating anime have a new series to look forward to in 2025. Medalist, based on Tsurumaikada’s award-winning manga, will premiere in January, promising a compelling mix of athleticism, drama, and personal growth. Here’s everything you need to know about this highly anticipated show, from its release date to its plot and more.
Release Date and Where to Watch
The Medalist anime is scheduled to premiere on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at 1:30 AM JST in Japan. For international viewers, this translates to a release on Saturday, January 4, 2025, with times adjusted based on local time zones. The series will air as part of TV Asahi’s NUMAnimation block, followed by a broadcast on BS Asahi on January 6.
For those wanting to watch it online, Medalist will be available on several streaming platforms in Japan, including ABEMA, Disney+ (Star), d Anime Store, Hulu, U-NEXT, Netflix, and Bandai Channel. Internationally, Medalist will be available for streaming on Disney+.
Anime Cast, Studio, and More
Produced by Studio ENGI, Medalist brings together a talented crew to ensure an authentic and engaging viewing experience. Yasutaka Yamamoto directs the series, with Jukki Hanada writing the script. Chinatsu Kameyama serves as the character designer, while Yuki Hayashi, known for his work on My Hero Academia, is composing the music.
The series benefits from expert input in its portrayal of figure skating, with acclaimed skaters Akiko Suzuki, Yuhana Yokoi, and Hinano Isobe handling the choreography for the skating routines. The opening theme, “Bow and Arrow,” is performed by Kenshi Yonezu, while the ending theme, “Atashi no Dress,” is sung by Neguse.
The voice cast features Natsumi Haruse as Inori Yutsuka and Takeo Ootsuka (known for Oshi no Ko) as Tsukasa Akeuraji. Supporting cast members include Kana Ichinose as Hikaru Kamisaki, Takahiro Miyake as Yudai Jakuzure, and Kotori Koiwai as Ema Yamato.
Plot Overview
Medalist follows the journey of Tsukasa Akeuraji, a young man whose dreams of becoming a figure skater were dashed by starting the sport too late. His life changes when he meets Inori Yutsuka, a passionate fifth-grader determined to become a professional figure skater. Despite being overlooked by her peers, Inori’s unwavering dedication inspires Tsukasa to become her coach. Together, they face the challenges of competitive skating, with their eyes set on the ultimate goal: becoming medalists.
The series blends the technical aspects of figure skating with deep emotional conflict, highlighting the personal struggles and triumphs of both characters as they work toward their dreams.
Conclusion
With its blend of figure skating, emotional storytelling, and stunning animation, Medalist is poised to captivate audiences when it debuts in January 2025. Fans of the genre will not want to miss this unique series, which promises to deliver both technical authenticity and heartfelt drama. Stay tuned for more updates as the premiere date approaches.
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