Get ready for a heartwarming and bittersweet romantic journey! The TV anime adaptation of the popular light novel series, Replica Datte, Koi wo Suru., originally from “Dengeki Bunko,” is officially set to premiere in 2026. This exciting announcement comes with the release of a beautiful teaser visual and a captivating teaser PV, giving us our first glimpse into the animated world of “Replico.”
Alongside these stunning visuals, the main staff and key cast members have also been revealed. Fans will be thrilled to learn that the talented Morohoshi Sumire has been cast in the dual role of Nao and Aikawa Sunao, bringing these beloved characters to life.
About Replica Datte, Koi wo Suru.
Affectionately known as “Replico,” Replica Datte, Koi wo Suru. has garnered significant acclaim, topping the Light Novel division of “Reading Meter OF THE YEAR 2023-2024” and clinching first place in the “Manga to be Adapted into Visual Media” category at the “11th Shizuoka Bookstore Awards.” This popular series tells a poignant yet sweet and sour tale of adolescent love, centered around a girl who was created as a substitute.
For those eager to dive deeper into the story, the latest volumes are just around the corner: the original light novel’s fifth volume and the comic adaptation’s fourth volume are both scheduled for release on August 8th.
A Sweet and Secretive Love Story Unfolds
The story introduces us to Nao, a “replica” living a quiet life as a stand-in for Aikawa Sunao. Nao’s existence revolves around helping her “original,” Sunao. Whether it’s attending school when Sunao doesn’t want to, or excelling in academics and sports, everything Nao does is for Sunao’s benefit. However, Nao’s carefully constructed world takes an unexpected turn when she falls in love. With just that one emotion, Nao’s everyday life transforms into something vibrant and new.
From secret dates in school uniforms to whispered promises, every moment shared between Nao and her love interest sparkles with a special, unique magic. Nao wishes for these precious times to last forever, yet with each wish, the number of secrets she keeps from Sunao grows. Sunao, in turn, senses a change in Nao, and a growing anxiety begins to creep into her heart. Set against the picturesque backdrop of a coastal town, this delightful, slightly mysterious, and emotionally rich youth romance unfolds.
The Creative Team Behind the Adaptation
The newly unveiled teaser visual beautifully captures the essence of the two main characters: Nao, the replica girl, and Aikawa Sunao, her original, juxtaposed against each other. The teaser PV offers the very first animated footage from the series, giving fans a taste of what’s to come.
The anime production is being handled by the studio Voil. Directing the series is Kimura Ryuichi, known for his work on beloved titles such as Aikatsu!, Mononogatari, and Otonari ni Ginga. Shinotsuka Tomoko, who previously worked on Otaku ni Koi wa Muzukashii and Skip to Loafer, is taking on the crucial role of series composition, also contributing to the script alongside Morie Misaki. Character designs will be brought to life by Abiko Eiji, recognized for his work on Osomatsu-san (3rd season), Hataraku Saibou BLACK, and Juushinki Pandora.
Meet the Voice of Nao and Aikawa Sunao
The teaser PV also marked the exciting debut of the characters’ voices, revealing that Morohoshi Sumire will be performing the roles of both Nao and Aikawa Sunao. Her nuanced performance in portraying the delicate differences between the replica and the original girl is certainly something to eagerly anticipate. To celebrate this announcement, a special campaign is being held on the official X (formerly Twitter) account, where fans can enter a lottery to win a poster autographed by Morohoshi-san herself. Along with this news, heartfelt comments from Morohoshi-san and the original author, Haruna Don, have been shared, accompanied by a beautiful congratulatory illustration from character designer raemz.
The TV anime Replica Datte, Koi wo Suru. is scheduled to begin broadcasting in 2026. Be sure to stay tuned for more exciting updates as we get closer to the premiere!
Comments from the Creators and Cast
Morohoshi Sumire (Voice of Nao / Aikawa Sunao)
When I read the original novel, I was truly captivated by the realistic portrayal of each character’s feelings. The story’s delicate emotions, strength, charm, and even its precariousness, all depicted within such a refreshing world, deeply resonated with me. I feel as though I’ve experienced a youth right alongside these girls. There are so many charming scenes that I particularly love, so I’d be incredibly happy if everyone could look forward to it. Thank you very much!
Original Author: Haruna Don
Hello, this is Haruna Don, the original author. I’m truly overjoyed that Nao and the others’ story, which first began with words, is now becoming an anime. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all the readers, bookstores, publishers, and production staff who who have supported this work. Whether you’ve read the original or not, I hope you’ll all enjoy the anime version of Replico together!
TV Anime Replica Datte, Koi wo Suru.
Airs 2026!
Staff
| Role | Name |
|---|---|
| Original Work | Haruna Don (Dengeki Bunko / KADOKAWA) |
| Character Design Concept | raemz |
| Director | Kimura Ryuichi |
| Series Composition | Shinotsuka Tomoko |
| Script | Shinotsuka Tomoko, Morie Misaki |
| Character Design | Abiko Eiji |
| Animation Studio | Voil |
Cast
| Character | Voice Actor |
|---|---|
| Nao / Aikawa Sunao | Morohoshi Sumire |
(C) Haruna Don / KADOKAWA / Replica Datte, Koi wo Suru. Production Committee
