ZEXCS Greenlights Akane-banashi Season 2 for January 2027

TV Asahi announced that the rakugo drama Akane-banashi will return for a second season in January 2027, with animation production once again handled by ZEXCS. The renewal comes immediately after the first season concluded its Karaku Cup Arc, signaling strong momentum for the series and its production house.

Director Ayumu Watanabe will return at the helm alongside much of the core staff, including assistant director Yu Harima and series composer Michihiro Tsuchiya. Character designer and chief animation director Kii Tanaka provided a special celebratory illustration to mark the news, while a new production decision PV teases the shift into the manga's Apprentice Training Arc.

After graduating high school, Akane officially becomes a disciple under Shiguma Arakawa and adopts the stage name Akane Arakawa as she pursues the path of a professional rakugoka. Six new cast members were also revealed for characters introduced in the season one finale, expanding the ensemble as the story moves deeper into the competitive world of traditional storytelling.

The quick greenlight underscores ZEXCS's successful handling of the distinctive project, which blends intense performance sequences with heartfelt drama centered on voice, tradition, and personal growth. Fans can expect the same attention to rakugo authenticity that defined the first season when the new episodes arrive next winter.