The much-anticipated anime adaptation of Hitoshi Iwaaki's acclaimed Historie manga is officially set to premiere in January 2027. Fans of historical epics and Iwaaki's distinctive storytelling have a definitive date to mark on their calendars. This monumental news comes directly from the July issue of Kodansha's Afternoon magazine, confirming that LIDEN FILMS will bring this grand narrative to television screens.
Nobunaga Shimazaki Cast as Eumenes
Leading the charge as the voice of the protagonist Eumenes is the talented Nobunaga Shimazaki. His casting brings a familiar and celebrated voice to Iwaaki's universe, as Shimazaki previously starred in Parasyte -the maxim-, another highly successful anime adaptation of Iwaaki's work. This reunion of talent promises a deep understanding and nuanced portrayal of Iwaaki's complex characters, setting high expectations for his performance as the quick-witted Eumenes.
Unveiling the Epic Tale of Eumenes
Historie delves into a historical epic set in ancient times, chronicling the life of Eumenes, a young man destined for greatness. As described by Kodansha's K manga, which releases the series in English, Eumenes possesses remarkable intellect and a vast destiny. His journey will see him rise through the ranks to become a famed army commander and personal secretary to the legendary Alexander the Great. However, the path to such glory is fraught with immense danger and profound challenges, promising a compelling and intricate narrative for viewers.
A Manga of Enduring Legacy and Acclaim
Hitoshi Iwaaki first launched his ongoing Historie manga in Kodansha's Afternoon magazine in October 2004. Over nearly two decades, the series has captivated readers worldwide. Kodansha released the manga's 12th compiled book volume on June 21, 2024, underscoring its continued development. With over 4.7 million copies in circulation, Historie stands as a testament to its widespread popularity and critical success.
Award-Winning Excellence
The manga has garnered significant critical recognition and numerous prestigious awards throughout its run. In 2010, it was honored with the Japanese government's Ministry of Cultural Affairs' Media Arts Festival Award for manga. This was followed by the highly esteemed 16th Annual Tezuka Osamu Cultural Prize in 2012, cementing its status as a masterpiece within the industry. More recently, in 2025, Historie secured another major accolade, winning the Best General Manga category in the 49th Kodansha Manga Awards, demonstrating its enduring quality and relevance to both critics and readers.
Iwaaki's Decades-Long Vision Comes to Life
Hitoshi Iwaaki himself shared insights into the genesis of Historie, noting that he first conceived the story over four decades ago. His initial artistic endeavors for the series began in his then-tiny studio some 20-odd years ago. This long gestation period highlights the deep personal investment and meticulous craftsmanship Iwaaki has poured into Eumenes's story. His prior work, the groundbreaking Parasyte manga (which ran from 1990 to 1995), also received widespread acclaim and inspired an anime series and two live-action films from 2014 to 2015, showcasing his talent for creating narratives that resonate powerfully across different media.
A Highly Anticipated Adaptation
The announcement of Historie's anime adaptation by LIDEN FILMS, with Nobunaga Shimazaki voicing Eumenes, marks a significant moment for fans globally. The combination of Iwaaki's master storytelling, the series' rich historical backdrop, and its proven critical success promises an anime experience that will be both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. As January 2027 approaches, anticipation will undoubtedly build for this historical epic to unfold on screen.
