New Anne of Green Gables Anime Adaptation Announces Star-Studded Cast for 2025

The first trailer for the highly anticipated new anime adaptation of Lucy Maud Montgomery's timeless classic "Anne of Green Gables" has been unveiled. The Answer Studio is bringing the beloved story back to Japanese animation with an ambitious 24-episode series that promises to capture the heart and spirit of the original work.

A Comprehensive Adaptation

This fresh take on Anne's story will draw from three of Montgomery's beloved novels: "Anne of Green Gables," "Anne of Avonlea," and "Anne of the Island." The series aims to chronicle Anne Shirley's transformative journey from a spirited young girl to a mature young woman, weaving together her deep connection with the Cuthbert siblings, her steadfast friendship with Diana Barry, and her evolving relationship with Gilbert Blythe.

Outstanding Creative Team

The production brings together an impressive roster of talent. Director Hiroshi Kawamata leads the project, while Kenichi Tsuchiya handles character design. The series features a stellar voice cast, with Honoka Inoue bringing Anne Shirley to life, alongside Yume Miyamoto as Diana Barry, Naoya Miyase as Gilbert Blythe, Aya Nakamura as Marilla Cuthbert, and Yasunori Matsumoto as Matthew Cuthbert.

Animation Excellence

The production team includes several notable industry veterans. Animation directors Naoko Saito and Yuji Watanabe, known for their work on the acclaimed film "Your Name," bring their expertise to the project. The artistic vision is further enhanced by art director Tadashi Kudo, color designer Shiho Kuriki, and cinematographer Shinji Saito. The auditory experience will be crafted by sound director Kisuke Koizumi, with musical compositions by Michiru Oshima.

A Legacy of Success

Since its publication in 1908, "Anne of Green Gables" has achieved remarkable success, selling over 50 million copies worldwide and being translated into at least 36 languages. In Japan, where the story is known as "Akage no An" (Red-Haired Anne), it has held a special place in the national curriculum since 1952. The story previously received an acclaimed anime adaptation in 1979, directed by the legendary Isao Takahata, with Studio Ghibli founder Hayao Miyazaki contributing to the layout and scene design.

The Story Continues

Set in the fictional village of Avonlea on Prince Edward Island, the story follows orphan Anne Shirley, who arrives at Green Gables through a fortuitous mistake and finds her place with siblings Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert. This new adaptation seeks to honor the success of previous versions while introducing the classic tale to a modern anime audience.

Release Information

The new anime adaptation is scheduled to premiere on April 5, 2025, on NHK Education TV in Japan. Additionally, a new manga adaptation by artist Akane Hoshikubo launched on January 5, 2025, offering fans another way to experience Anne's beloved story.

This comprehensive adaptation marks an exciting new chapter in the legacy of "Anne of Green Gables," bringing together top talent in Japanese animation to reimagine this cherished classic for a new generation.