The Love Story Continues! ‘Watashi ga Koibito ni Nareru Wake Nai jan, Muri Muri! (※Muri ja Nakatta!?)’ Gets a Five-Episode Sequel!
Fans, get ready for more heartwarming moments and romantic dilemmas! The final episode of the popular TV anime, **Watashi ga Koibito ni Nareru Wake Nai jan, Muri Muri! (※Muri ja Nakatta!?)**, which is also known by its endearing short title **Watanare**, and in English as *There’s No Freaking Way I’ll be Your Lover! Unless…*, concluded with an exciting announcement. The anime is officially receiving a five-episode sequel! This news has set the anime community abuzz, eager to see where Renako Amaori’s journey of self-discovery and romance will lead next.
A Theatrical Premiere Awaits!
Before its television broadcast, a special re-edited version of these five sequel episodes will hit theaters across Japan. Titled **Next Shine**, this cinematic experience is scheduled to premiere on **November 21**. This offers a fantastic opportunity for fans to catch the continuation of the story on the big screen, complete with a key visual and a teaser trailer that promises more of the delightful narrative we’ve come to love. The sequel is set to adapt the fourth volume of the original light novel series, promising a faithful and engaging continuation of the story.
You can find more details and stay updated on the official website: https://www.watanare-anime.com/next-shine/
Diving Deeper into the ‘Watanare’ World
The original television anime, which captivated audiences with its charming story and relatable characters, made its debut on July 8. Produced by the talented team at **studio MOTHER**, the series brought **Mikami Teren’s** delightful light novel to life. For international viewers, REMOW ensured that no one missed out by streaming the anime on their It’s Anime YouTube channel, complete with subtitles in various languages.
The Beloved Light Novel and Manga
The captivating story of **Watashi ga Koibito ni Nareru Wake Nai jan, Muri Muri! (※Muri ja Nakatta!?)** originated from the brilliant mind of **Mikami Teren**. The light novel series, affectionately known as **Watanare**, began its journey in February 2020 under the Dash x Bunko imprint. Beautifully brought to life with illustrations by **Takeshima Eku**, who is also recognized for their work on **Sasayaku You ni Koi wo Utau**, the series has garnered a dedicated following. Shueisha recently published the seventh volume in December 2024, with the eighth volume eagerly anticipated to go on sale on September 25.
Adding another layer to its charm, the series also boasts a manga adaptation. **Musshu**, known for their work on **Hana wa Saku, Shura no Gotoku**, began drawing the manga on the Suiyoubi wa Mattari Dash X Comic website in May 2020. Shueisha released its eighth volume on June 18.
Both the light novel and manga have found a global audience, with Seven Seas Entertainment licensing them for English publication in May 2022. The sixth light novel volume in English went on sale on February 11, and fans can look forward to the seventh volume’s release on December 23. Meanwhile, the seventh manga volume in English shipped out on June 24.
What is ‘Watashi ga Koibito ni Nareru Wake Nai jan, Muri Muri! (※Muri ja Nakatta!?)’ All About?
For those new to the series or needing a refresher, here’s a glimpse into the enchanting world of **Watashi ga Koibito ni Nareru Wake Nai jan, Muri Muri! (※Muri ja Nakatta!?)**:
“I want to learn to love myself—just the way I am!”
Renako Amaori, once a gloomy and socially awkward girl, took a leap of faith to reinvent herself for high school, successfully making a dazzling debut. She even managed to join the top-tier popular group! But life, as it often does, threw her a curveball when she was suddenly confessed to by two of the group’s brightest stars. One is the school’s ultimate prince, Mai Ouzuka, and the other, the beloved angel of the campus, Ajisai Sena. There’s no way Renako can handle both their affections—no freaking way!
While still grappling with how to respond to their confessions, Renako agrees to lend a hand to her friend Kaho by participating in a cosplay event. It seems like the perfect excuse to delay her reply… or so she thought. As she witnesses Kaho’s passionate dedication firsthand, something profound begins to stir within Renako.
What is it that she truly desires? What is she genuinely searching for? Can she truly not become someone’s lover? Or has that initial “no freaking way” not been so impossible after all?
Stay connected with the latest news and updates by following the official X account: @watanare_anime
Source: Oricon News, Press Release
