A Big Milestone for Bonobono! First Long-Form Arc “Ori-chan no Koto” Announced, Seki Tomokazu Joins the Cast
In 2026, the beloved anime series Bonobono will celebrate two significant anniversaries: 40 years since its manga serialization began and 10 years since its TV anime broadcast recommenced. To mark these special occasions, it has been announced that Bonobono will air its very first long-form episode arc, titled “Ori-chan no Koto” (Ori-chan’s Story), starting from episode 485. Fans will also be thrilled to learn that the mysterious new character, Ori-chan, will be voiced by the incredibly talented Seki Tomokazu.
(C) Igarashi Mikio/Takeshobo, Fuji TV, Eiken
About Bonobono: A Gentle Journey Through Life’s Truths
Based on the immensely popular manga by Igarashi Mikio, which has been serialized since 1986 and boasts over 9.5 million copies in circulation, Bonobono is a TV anime that continues to charm audiences. The series revolves around Bonobono, an inquisitive otter child who finds himself fascinated by all sorts of strange and wonderful things. Alongside his equally endearing and laid-back companions, Bonobono and his friends gently explore and reveal the deeper truths of life, offering a comforting and philosophical experience.
The series first received an anime adaptation in 1995 on the TV Toosaka network. Later, in 2016, to commemorate the manga’s 30th anniversary, a new TV anime series began airing on Fuji TV. It has since become a staple of Saturday mornings, continuously winning the hearts of a broad audience with its unique blend of cute characters and profound ponderings.
(C) Igarashi Mikio/Takeshobo, Fuji TV, Eiken
“Ori-chan no Koto”: A 16-Episode Adventure Awaits!
As previously announced, the Bonobono anime will embark on its first-ever long-form story arc, “Ori-chan no Koto,” commencing with episode 485. This exciting new storyline is scheduled to run for a total of 16 episodes, promising a comprehensive and engaging narrative for fans. Adding to the anticipation, the enigmatic character of Ori-chan will be brought to life by the renowned voice actor Seki Tomokazu, whose distinct voice is sure to add another layer of charm to the character.
(C) Igarashi Mikio/Takeshobo, Fuji TV, Eiken
Exclusive Messages and Illustrations From the Creator and Cast!
To celebrate the upcoming broadcast of “Ori-chan no Koto,” a special message and a brand-new illustration have arrived from the original author, Igarashi Mikio-sensei! Furthermore, an exclusive interview with Seki Tomokazu-san, the voice of Ori-chan, has also been released. Fans are undoubtedly eager to see how Seki Tomokazu-san will portray Ori-chan, a mysterious character known for eating anything and everything. His performance is something truly to look forward to!
An Interview with Seki Tomokazu-san, the Voice of Ori-chan
Here is the full interview with Seki Tomokazu-san:
――Please share your thoughts and feelings when you received the offer to guest star in Bonobono.
I was very familiar with the works of Igarashi Mikio-sensei, having previously worked with him on “Ninpen Manmaru,” so I was incredibly happy to be involved!
――What were your initial impressions of “Ori-chan,” and what was it like to voice the character?
Ori-chan is a mysterious being who sometimes causes trouble for everyone, but there’s an undeniable charm that makes them hard to dislike. And let’s not forget the “face acting” (facial expressions)! I had a lot of fun discussing and performing the voice for Ori-chan.
Igarashi-sensei also visited the recording studio, and I was delighted to reunite with him.
――Do you have a message for the viewers?
I truly enjoyed participating in the recording! I hope that enjoyment translates through the work and reaches all of you. Please look forward to the broadcast!
Additional Visuals from the World of Bonobono
Dive deeper into the charming world of Bonobono with these additional visuals, including more memorable scene cuts and a peek at a manga volume cover!
Bonobono: Work Information
- Title: Bonobono
- Original Work: The widely popular comic series by Igarashi Mikio, serialized since 1986 with over 9.5 million copies in circulation.
- About the Story: Centered around Bonobono, an otter child who is curious about strange and mysterious things, the relaxed and cute characters gently feel and convey the truths of life.
- TV Anime: Currently airing to great acclaim on Fuji TV (every Saturday morning from 5:22 AM).
- Streaming: Catch-up streaming of the latest episodes is available on FOD every Saturday after broadcast. Also airing on Animax.
- Available Merchandise:
- Anime: “Bonobono” DVD Volume 36 (currently on sale)
- Comics: “Bonobono” Volume 49 (currently on sale)
- “Bonobono S” Volumes 1-2
- “Bono-chan” Series (all 8 volumes)
- “Debu Bonobono,” “Inu Bonobono,” “Bonobono Jinsei Soudan” (all 2 volumes)
- Bonobono Picture Book: “Boku-tachi no Mori no Koto” (Our Forest’s Story)
- (All published by Takeshobo)
- Production: Fuji TV, Eiken
- Copyright: (C) Igarashi Mikio/Takeshobo, Fuji TV, Eiken
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