Chiruran: Shinsengumi Requiem Drama Breaks Records Ahead of HBO Max Release

The live-action adaptation of the manga Chiruran: Shinsengumi Requiem has recorded the largest initial viewership in the history of the Japanese streaming service U-NEXT. The drama, starring Yamada Yuki, topped the platform's domestic drama rankings immediately after its March 26-27 broadcast on TBS.

The two-part special 'Edo Youth Chapter' aired on television, followed by the exclusive U-NEXT series 'Kyoto Decisive Battle Chapter'. Both episodes claimed the number one and two spots on U-NEXT's daily chart. Related behind-the-scenes and guide content also ranked highly.

The series adapts the popular manga by Hashimoto Eiji and Umemura Shinya, depicting the turbulent lives of the Shinsengumi samurai in the Bakumatsu period. The cast includes Suzuki Nobuyuki, Nakamura Ao, Matsumoto Jun, and Ayano Gou.

Chief Producer Morii Hikaru stated the record-breaking start exceeded the team's expectations, attributing it to the cast's performances and the intense action sequences.

The drama is currently streaming exclusively on U-NEXT in Japan. A global release on HBO Max is scheduled for May 9, 2026, covering over 100 countries and regions including North America, Europe, and parts of Asia.

Source: PR Times via THE SEVEN