Otaku Culture
Toho announces massive expansion: Frieren, Apothecary Diaries and more to have new seasons
The entertainment giant plans to produce 30 cours per year by 2032 and revealed a massive lineup of sequels and films for its most popular franchises.
The anime industry is about to witness the consolidation of a true titan. During its recent financial report, producer and distributor Toho revealed an ambitious strategic plan to transform its animation division into one of the company’s largest pillars. The goal is clear and aggressive: move from its current production pace to a massive production phase, ensuring the premiere of approximately 30 cours (anime quarters) per year by 2032.

An unparalleled rain of dates and sequels
To prove the strategy is serious, TOHO animation dropped a bombshell of announcements that has left the otaku community celebrating wildly. By combining its ability to acquire high-impact original stories with the talent of its associated studios, the company revealed an impressive premiere calendar for the next two years. Among the most prominent titles are:
- Sousou no Frieren: Its third season (El Dorado Arc) will premiere in October 2027.
- The Apothecary Diaries: Will receive a theatrical film in December 2026, and its third season will be split between October 2026 and April 2027.
- Mushoku Tensei: Its third season is scheduled for July 2026.
- My Hero Academia: Will release a new special episode titled No.170+1 “More” on May 2, 2026.
- Haikyu!!: Will return to cinemas with the film Versus the Little Giant and a special episode in 2027.
Added to this list are confirmations of major developments such as the final chapter of Kaiju No. 8, a new Godzilla anime series, and the continuation in production of Wolf and Spice.

The muscle of Science SARU and internal studios
To support this massive workload while ensuring the highest quality, Toho is not only investing heavily in its own TOHO animation STUDIO and prestigious partners like Orange, but has also given a starring role to its recently acquired studio, Science SARU. Traditionally known for its artistic and experimental works, Science SARU will now take on commercial giants: they will animate the new Ghost in the Shell series in July 2026, the new anime Tengoku no Jardouge, and the anticipated third season of Dandadan in 2027.
By controlling planning, production, and promotion under one roof, Toho ensures a constant flow of revenue through television broadcasts, streaming platforms, merchandise sales, and international licenses. With the intermediate goal of reaching 20 cours annually by 2029, this astonishing calendar shows that Toho no longer just wants to make anime; it wants to lead the global market.
