Shonen Jump's Rakugo Manga 'Akane Banashi' Gets Anime Adaptation with Keisuke Kuwata Theme Song

The first rakugo manga from Weekly Shonen Jump, Akane Banashi, will premiere as a TV anime in April 2026. The opening theme song, 'Hitotarashi,' was written and composed by Southern All Stars frontman Keisuke Kuwata.

After her father fails a promotion test, she vows to master rakugo and become a 'shin'uchi' performer herself.

Kuwata's song, 'Hitotarashi,' will be released digitally on April 3, 2026, via Taishita Label and Victor Entertainment. The anime features a cast led by Anna Nagase as Akane Osaki, with Takuya Eguchi, Rie Takahashi, and Akihisa Shiono in supporting roles.

Directed by Ayumu Watanabe at studio ZEXCS, the series adapts the manga by Yuki Suenaga and Takamasa Moue. The anime will premiere in Japan on April 4, 2026. A promotional video featuring the new theme song has been released.

Source: PR Times via ABEMA