Netflix Announces Exclusive Release for ‘The Summer Hikaru Died’ in 2025

LOS ANGELES, CA — Netflix has confirmed that the highly anticipated anime adaptation of ‘The Summer Hikaru Died’ will debut in its catalog in 2025. The streaming service announced the exclusive release via social media, generating excitement among anime fans worldwide.

Directed by Ryohei Takeshita, ‘The Summer Hikaru Died’ combines elements of slice-of-life storytelling with supernatural themes. The narrative focuses on two childhood friends, Yoshiki and Hikaru, who share a deep bond until a mysterious transformation changes Hikaru’s demeanor, leading to unsettling events in their small village. Yoshiki, voiced by Chiaki Kobayashi, faces challenges as Hikaru, represented by Shuichiro Umeda, reveals a sinister side.

The series is based on the manga created by Mokumokuren, published by Kadokawa, which unexpectedly captured reader interest upon its release in 2021. Takeshita expressed enthusiasm about the adaptation, stating, “Reading the original work was exciting, and I pondered how to express its frames in animation. Our team was dedicated to capturing the delicate emotions of Yoshiki and Hikaru, as well as the manga’s beautiful and innovative structure. We look forward to sharing it with you.”

Securing the exclusive streaming rights to ‘The Summer Hikaru Died’ represents a significant achievement for Netflix as it continues to expand its anime offerings. In 2024, the platform’s anime selections proved successful, with titles achieving substantial viewership numbers, including over 90 million hours viewed within the first three months of their release.

While Netflix has yet to announce a specific release date, fans are eagerly anticipating additional details, including a trailer, as the series approaches its launch. With its blend of traditional storytelling and supernatural elements, ‘The Summer Hikaru Died’ is poised to join the ranks of Netflix’s hit anime series, garnering critical and commercial success upon its release.