The highly anticipated television anime adaptation of Kana Yoshimura's Murciélago manga has been officially announced, much to the excitement of fans worldwide. The news broke during the NBCUniversal Entertainment Japan panel at Anime Expo 2026 on Saturday. Alongside the confirmation of a 2027 premiere, key staff members, the animation studios, a compelling teaser visual, and an intriguing teaser promotional video were all unveiled, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling adaptation.
Murciélago Anime Staff and Studio Details
The creative team bringing Murciélago to the screen features a lineup of experienced individuals and studios. Takashi Naoya, known for directing Kekkon Yubiwa Monogatari, will take on the crucial roles of Chief Director and Series Composition. His expertise suggests a well-structured narrative and strong directorial vision for the series. Joining him as Director is Matsuo Asami, who previously served as an assistant director for Übel Blatt, indicating a solid foundation in action-oriented storytelling.
Character Design will be handled by Kiyoshi Tateishi, recognized for his work on Kinsou no Vermeil. Tateishi's involvement is particularly exciting as Murciélago boasts a cast of distinct and visually striking characters, whose designs are central to the manga's appeal. The musical score, a vital component for setting the tone of a dark action series, will be composed by Masanori Akita and Yuuichi Tsuchiya, promising an immersive auditory experience.
The anime production will be a collaboration between two respected studios: Satelight and Staple Entertainment. Satelight has a strong track record with various anime genres, including action and mecha, while Staple Entertainment's involvement indicates a robust production pipeline. This studio combination suggests a high-quality animation output, crucial for translating Murciélago's intense action sequences and detailed character expressions to the screen.
What is Murciélago About?
Murciélago delves into a dark and unconventional world centered around State-Appointed Executioners. The story follows Kuroko Koumori, a woman who has committed an astonishing 715 murders. Rather than facing death row, Kuroko proves her sanity and is given a twisted second chance: to serve society by hunting down other dangerous killers. She is partnered with Hinako Tozakura, a seemingly carefree and eccentric girl who drives Ferraris with a disregard for traditional road rules.
Kuroko, affectionately called "Kuu-chan" by Hinako, is a complex character. She is described as a lascivious lesbian with razor-sharp instincts and an undeniable aptitude for murder. Her past and present life as an executioner paint her as a formidable and morally ambiguous protagonist. Hinako, on the other hand, provides a contrasting, lighter presence, though her own unconventional approach to life hints at a depth beyond her cheerful exterior. The dynamic between this unlikely duo, bound by their gruesome job of eliminating vicious serial killers, is a core element of the series. Murciélago is celebrated for its unique blend of girl's love action, intense thrills, and a darkly comedic sensibility.
Manga Background and English Release
Kana Yoshimura launched Murciélago in Young Gangan magazine in August 2013, quickly garnering a dedicated fanbase. The manga's unique premise and compelling characters have sustained its popularity over the years, leading to a substantial volume count. Square Enix, the original publisher in Japan, released the 28th volume on January 23, with the 29th volume scheduled for release on July 24.
For English-speaking audiences, Yen Press licensed the manga in June 2016, making the series accessible to a broader international readership. Yen Press has consistently released translated volumes, with the 26th volume hitting shelves on February 24. Fans can look forward to the 27th English volume, which is slated to go on sale on September 22. The ongoing success and extensive release schedule of the manga in both Japanese and English underscore its enduring appeal and readiness for an anime adaptation.
Anticipation for the 2027 Premiere
The announcement of the Murciélago TV anime adaptation for 2027 marks a significant milestone for fans who have followed Kana Yoshimura's thrilling manga. The revealed staff, including the chief director, director, and character designer, along with the collaboration of Satelight and Staple Entertainment, build considerable anticipation for a high-quality production that stays true to the manga's spirit. The teaser visual and promotional video have already offered a tantalizing glimpse into the anime's aesthetic and tone, further fueling excitement for its premiere. Fans can stay updated by visiting the official website at https://www.murcielago-anime.com/ and following the official X account @murcielago_anm. This adaptation promises to deliver the dark, action-packed, and uniquely character-driven story that Murciélago is known for, bringing Kuroko and Hinako's grim adventures to a new medium.
Source: Comic Natalie, Murciélago on MAL
