The popular Rascal Does Not Dream franchise is making a big comeback! A brand-new TV anime series titled Rascal Does Not Dream of Santa Claus has been officially announced, with a new trailer and exciting details revealed during AnimeJapan 2025.
A Look Back
Originally based on Hajime Kamoshida and Keji Mizoguchi’s light novels, the franchise began with the hit series Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai in 2018. It gained massive popularity, leading to a feature film and two OVA specials. Now, fans can look forward to the next chapter in the story.
Release Date
The new anime series is set to premiere in July 2025 as part of the Summer anime lineup in Japan. An exact release date and international streaming plans are yet to be announced.
Cast & Staff
Returning Cast:
- Kaito Ishikawa as Sakuta Azusagawa (now in university)
- Asami Seto as Mai Sakurajima
New Characters & Voices:
- Reina Ueda as the mysterious “Miniskirt Santa”
- Sora Amamiya as Uzuki Hirokawa
- Aya Yamane as Ikumi Akagi
- Konomi Kohara as Sara Himeji
- Manaka Iwami as Miori Mito
- Inori Minase as Shoko Makinohara
Staff:
- Director: Soichi Matsui (returning from previous works)
- Series Composition: Masahiro Yokotani
- Character Design: Satomi Tamura
- Music: fox capture plan
- Opening Theme Song: Snowdrop by Conton Candy
What’s the Story This Time?
The new anime will adapt the University Arc of the light novel series. Sakuta Azusagawa has graduated high school and is now a university student in Kanazawa-hakkei alongside his girlfriend, the famous actress Mai Sakurajima.
One day, Sakuta encounters an unexpected figure — an out-of-season “miniskirt Santa,” who surprises him by saying, “I’m surprised. So, you can see me.” This mysterious Santa, Toko Kirishima, claims to be gifting Puberty Syndrome to people.
Get ready for more strange and heartwarming adventures involving precognitive dreams, strange online singers, and mysterious social media activity — all tied to the struggles and emotions of youth.
In Short:
- Title: Rascal Does Not Dream of Santa Claus
- Release: July 2025 (exact date TBA)
- Studio: CloverWorks
- Category: TV Anime, Drama, Supernatural
- Cast: Kaito Ishikawa, Asami Seto, Reina Ueda, and more.
