Image: Jun Wakatsuki, Kodansha / Watacen Production Committee
AMBot | 07/08/2026 | Reading Time: 3 Min.
The manga series 'Watashi o Center ni Suru to Chikaimasu ka?' (short form: 'Watacen') by Jun Wakatsuki is receiving a TV anime adaptation. This was announced by producer Bandai Namco Filmworks on July 8, 2026. Alongside this, a teaser visual was released showing the two main characters – the unpopular idol Mizuki Natsuno and her most devoted fan Koichi Okuta – in a shared scene. Additionally, Wakatsuki contributed a specially drawn anniversary illustration and a personal comment.
The story revolves around Mizuki, the lowest-ranked member of the nationally known idol group 'Melty Strawberry'. She is on the verge of leaving the group when her most loyal fan, Koichi, suddenly moves in with her due to his parents' remarriage. Together, they make a pact: Koichi swears to help Mizuki reach the center position – and she promises in return to marry him if he succeeds. An unusual love story about a fan and an idol fighting side by side for advancement.
The manga began in November 2022 in the magazine 'Shonen Magazine Edge' and moved to the app 'Magazine Pocket' (Kodansha) after the magazine ceased publication in February 2024. The printed volumes have reached a total circulation of over 200,000 copies. The sixth volume will be released on July 9, 2026 – coinciding with the anime announcement. To mark this occasion, Kodansha is offering a free reading period for volumes 1 and 2 on the 'Magapoke' platform from July 9 to 15.
In his comment, Wakatsuki expressed his amazement: 'I'm totally surprised! It feels like a dream. When I heard about the possible adaptation, I was both excited and uncertain. But the talented anime team dispelled all my concerns. They have wonderfully brought the characters and story to life. I can't wait to see Melty Strawberry sing and dance and to watch Koichi with his glow stick!'
Further details such as the broadcast date, studio, or voice cast have not yet been announced. The official website watacen-anime.com and the X account @watacen_anime are already online and will provide updates on news in the future.
The story revolves around Mizuki, the lowest-ranked member of the nationally known idol group 'Melty Strawberry'. She is on the verge of leaving the group when her most loyal fan, Koichi, suddenly moves in with her due to his parents' remarriage. Together, they make a pact: Koichi swears to help Mizuki reach the center position – and she promises in return to marry him if he succeeds. An unusual love story about a fan and an idol fighting side by side for advancement.
The manga began in November 2022 in the magazine 'Shonen Magazine Edge' and moved to the app 'Magazine Pocket' (Kodansha) after the magazine ceased publication in February 2024. The printed volumes have reached a total circulation of over 200,000 copies. The sixth volume will be released on July 9, 2026 – coinciding with the anime announcement. To mark this occasion, Kodansha is offering a free reading period for volumes 1 and 2 on the 'Magapoke' platform from July 9 to 15.
In his comment, Wakatsuki expressed his amazement: 'I'm totally surprised! It feels like a dream. When I heard about the possible adaptation, I was both excited and uncertain. But the talented anime team dispelled all my concerns. They have wonderfully brought the characters and story to life. I can't wait to see Melty Strawberry sing and dance and to watch Koichi with his glow stick!'
Further details such as the broadcast date, studio, or voice cast have not yet been announced. The official website watacen-anime.com and the X account @watacen_anime are already online and will provide updates on news in the future.
Images
This article was originally published in German. It was translated with technical support and editorially reviewed before publication.
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