A new anime adaptation of L.M. Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables series, retitled Anne Shirley, will debut on April 5. The 24-episode series adapts the first three novels—the titular Anne of Green Gables, Anne of Avonlea, and Anne of the Island—charting Anne’s journey from age 11 to 17. A promotional video (PV) reveals the opening theme “Yokan”, performed by Tota, who shared: “Anne’s resilience in finding light in darkness inspired me. I hope this song gives strength to those who need to rise after falling.”
- Montgomery’s novels have sold over 50 million copies worldwide, cementing its status as a global classic.
- The anime aims to revive Anne’s story with modern animation and a fresh perspective, appealing to fans of timeless stories.
Legacy & New Vision
- Follows Dear Anne (2019), the global Netflix adaptation, and prior Japanese TV series (1979–2009/2010).
- New adaptation directed by Hiroshi Kawamata (Modern Love Tokyo), produced by The Answer Studio.
Production Team
- Director: Hiroshi Kawamata
- Character Design/Animation Director: Kenichi Tsuchiya (Your Name, Weathering With You)
- Soundtrack: Michiru Ōshima (The Tatami Galaxy, Yojohan Time Machine Blues)
Voice Cast
- Anne Shirley: Honoka Inoue
- Matthew Cuthbert: Yasunori Matsumoto
- Marilla Cuthbert: Gorō Nakaamura
- Diana Barry: Yume Miyamoto
- Gilbert Blythe: Naoya Miyase
- James A. Harrison: Hikari Ōta
Synopsis
A red-haired orphan with a fierce imagination, Anne Shirley, arrives in the small Nova Scotian town of Avonlea, sent erroneously to live with a reclusive brother-and-sister duo, Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert. Anne’s vibrant personality transforms her initially reluctant caretakers and the town itself, forging friendships—including Diana Barry and rival-turned-ally Gilbert Blythe—while navigating heartache, ambitions, and the joy of growing into herself.
A blend of nostalgia and innovation, Anne Shirley promises to celebrate the iconic girl with a “mooshy” heart as she embraces life’s challenges with courage and creativity.
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