In a major global announcement delivered live at Anime Expo 2026, it was officially revealed that Kana Yoshimura’s wildly popular and provocative manga series, MURCIÉLAGO, will receive its long-awaited TV anime adaptation in 2027.
Serialized in Square Enix’s Young Gangan since its debut in August 2013, the thrilling crime-action series has built a massive global footprint. MURCIÉLAGO currently spans 28 volumes in Japan (26 volumes internationally) and has surpassed a staggering 2.3 million copies in circulation worldwide. The highly anticipated series will be available to international audiences exclusively on HIDIVE. The popular anime streaming service from AMC Global Media will broadcast the anime as part of its 2027 line-up, streaming to subscribers throughout the United States and Canada, as well as key overseas markets including the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand.
Fighting Evil with Evil: The World of ‘MURCIÉLAGO’
MURCIÉLAGO follows a wildly unconventional, addictive, and dangerously intoxicating premise. The story centers on Kuroko Koumori, a former death-row mass murderer who, through extraordinary legal measures, is chosen to serve as a state-sanctioned executioner. By her side is her watchdog and partner, Hinako Tozakura, an innocent-looking girl possessing extraordinary driving skills. Together, this deranged yet unbeatable duo confronts heinous crimes and the deep darkness lurking within society.
Powerhouse Staff and Production Team, Creator & Director Comments
Production committees unveiled a super teaser PV and a key visual, alongside a special celebratory illustration. Including a personal message from the original creator and the core directorial staff.
The anime is a joint production between Satelight and Staple Entertainment (the studio behind Tales of Wedding Rings). Industry veteran Takashi Naoya will lead the project as Chief Director and will also handle Series Composition. Working alongside him is Director Matsuo Asami, who is overseeing the day-to-day on-site production.
Kana Yoshimura (Original Creator)
“Ever since I chose the profession of manga artist, having one of my works adapted into an anime has been one of my greatest dreams. It is thanks to the support and cooperation of all the readers and everyone involved that this dream has finally come true, and first and foremost, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude. Thank you. Thank you very much.
I am already excited myself to see Kuroko and the others brought to life and moving on screen. To all of our readers, I hope you will continue to support both the original manga and the Murciélago anime. It’s going to be a blast! Oryaa!!”
Takashi Naoya (Chief Director & Series Composition)
“This was my first time participating in a project in the capacity of Chief Director, so while respecting the authority of the director, I took on responsibilities where I could best contribute—namely series composition, scriptwriting, and storyboarding. In terms of series composition, I focused our script discussions on how to best convey the appeal of this work within the span of a single cour.
I would also like to thank Ms. Yoshimura, who warmly supported us throughout the script meetings and provided many invaluable insights. My favorite characters are Manjūbito and Hinako. I’m also very fond of Urara and Momoyama. But… in the end, Kuroko really is the best—she’s cool, charmingly mischievous, and even a great cook. She’s wonderful! ♡”
Matsuo Asami (Director)
“I’m Matsuo Asami, the director, and I’m primarily responsible for overseeing the production on site. We are currently right in the middle of voice recording, and the performances of Kuroko and Hinako are so engaging that they often surpass what we had envisioned in the visuals. Every time, I find myself inspired by their acting and incorporating that energy back into the animation.
On the visual side, with the support of our many talented animators, we are striving to capture the stylish crime-action spirit of the original work, while pushing the erotic and grotesque elements right up to the limits of broadcast standards. We are also putting a great deal of effort into the car action sequences. With the cooperation of Satelight’s CG department, we are aiming to deliver some truly cool 3D action scenes. Everyone on the team is working hard every day so that we can show you Kuroko and Hinako in motion as soon as possible. Please look forward to it and bear with us just a little longer.”
Fans are encouraged to stay tuned for further developments. Trailers and cast announcements for the TV anime MURCIÉLAGO will drop ahead of its 2027 premiere.
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