The popular comedy manga series Phantom of the Idol (Kami Kuzu Idol), written and illustrated by Hijiki Isoflavone, is officially slated to conclude with its 10th compiled book volume, set to ship in 2026. This announcement was made on July 31, 2025, with the release of the manga’s ninth volume.
The Genesis of Phantom of the Idol
Hijiki Isoflavone launched Phantom of the Idol in Ichijinsha’s Comic Zero Sum magazine in December 2017. The series quickly gained a following for its unique premise, blending comedy with supernatural elements within the competitive world of Japanese pop idols. Kodansha USA Publishing holds the license for the manga in North America, with the seventh volume having been released on April 23, 2025.
Storyline Overview: A Lazy Idol and His Energetic Ghost
The narrative centers on Yuuya Niyodo, a member of the two-man idol group ZINGS, who is notoriously lazy and unmotivated. Despite his partner’s dedication, Yuuya’s half-hearted performances and indifferent attitude have alienated fans and put his career in jeopardy. Yuuya’s aspiration for an easy life as a pop idol clashes with the reality of hard work and fan engagement.
The turning point in Yuuya’s career, and the core of the story, occurs when he encounters the ghost of Asahi Mogami, a beloved idol who tragically died a year prior. Asahi, still passionate about performing despite her untimely death, strikes an unusual deal with Yuuya: she possesses his body during performances, allowing him to maintain his easygoing lifestyle while she lives out her dream of being on stage. This spiritual partnership leads to a dramatic transformation in Yuuya’s stage presence, turning his often-hostile demeanor into enthusiastic and skilled performances, much to the delight and confusion of fans.
Anime Adaptation and International Reach
The popularity of the manga led to a television anime adaptation, which premiered in Japan in July 2022. Studio Gokumi produced the 10-episode series, directed by Daisei Fukuoka, with scripts by Yasuko Aoki. Sentai Filmworks licensed the anime for distribution, streaming it on HIDIVE with both English subtitles and an English dub. The anime’s finale, which aired in September 2022, was noted for bringing together key elements of the series for an enjoyable conclusion, even if some found the animation quality during performance scenes to be lacking.
Looking Ahead: The Final Volume
Fans can anticipate the conclusion of Yuuya and Asahi’s comedic and heartfelt journey with the release of the 10th volume in 2026. The series has explored themes of dedication, passion, and the unique challenges and rewards of the idol industry, all through the lens of its supernatural comedic premise.
