The popular comedy manga Ojisan wa Kawaii Mono ga Osuki. (The Middle-Aged Man Loves Cute Things), penned by Tsutomu, is officially receiving a television anime adaptation, slated for broadcast in 2026. Animation studio LIDEN FILMS, known for works such as Tokyo Revengers and Call of the Night, will be producing the series. The announcement was made via the anime’s newly launched official website and X (formerly Twitter) account.
Tsutomu’s Heartwarming Comedy Comes to Life
Ojisan wa Kawaii Mono ga Osuki. centers on Mitsutaka Oji, a 40-year-old (sometimes cited as 42 or 43) handsome and highly respected office worker. Beneath his cool and competent exterior, Oji harbors a deep secret: an ardent love for all things cute, especially character goods like the adorable “Pugtaro.” His carefully maintained double life is unexpectedly challenged when his college-aged nephew, Masumi, moves into his apartment, which is filled with his hidden collection of cute character dolls and merchandise.
The manga has been serialized on Flex Comics’ COMIC Polaris website since July 2017 and has garnered a significant following, with 11 compiled book volumes released as of February 14, 2025. Its unique premise and heartwarming humor have resonated with readers, showcasing the endearing gap between Oji’s mature appearance and his secret passion. The series falls under the comedy, slice-of-life, and office worker genres.
Previous Adaptation and Author’s Delight
Prior to this anime announcement, Ojisan wa Kawaii Mono ga Osuki. inspired a five-episode live-action TV drama adaptation. This drama aired on Japanese television from August to September 2020, starring Hidekazu Mashima as Mitsutaka Oji.
Upon hearing the news of the anime, original author Tsutomu expressed profound joy and surprise. In a comment, Tsutomu remarked on the unexpected nature of an anime adaptation, questioning, “Eh? Do Koji and the others move? Do they talk? Really?” The author also noted the varying pace of manga episodes and his initial thought that it might be challenging to adapt, but was delighted by the fun result after reviewing. “I’m so happy! I can’t wait for it to air!” Tsutomu said. A new teaser visual, personally drawn by Tsutomu, featuring protagonist Oji Mitsutaka and the beloved Pugtaro, was also released to commemorate the announcement.
LIDEN FILMS at the Helm
The choice of LIDEN FILMS to animate Ojisan wa Kawaii Mono ga Osuki. brings a studio with a diverse portfolio and a strong track record to the project. Founded in February 2012, LIDEN FILMS is a Japanese animation studio headquartered in Tokyo and is a founding member of Ultra Super Pictures.
The studio has been responsible for animating a wide range of popular titles across various genres, including the action-packed Tokyo Revengers, the supernatural romance Call of the Night, the historical Rurouni Kenshin (2023), and the fantasy adventure The Heroic Legend of Arslan. Their experience in adapting both manga and light novels, coupled with their ability to handle both comedic and dramatic elements, suggests a promising adaptation for Oji’s heartwarming story.
What to Expect from the Anime
While specific details regarding the staff and cast for the anime have yet to be confirmed, fans can anticipate a faithful adaptation that captures the manga’s unique blend of humor, charm, and relatable themes. The anime will likely delve into Oji’s daily struggles to keep his “cute things” obsession a secret from his colleagues, his interactions with his perceptive nephew Masumi, and the heartwarming moments that arise from his hidden passion.
The visual storytelling capabilities of animation will undoubtedly enhance the comedic timing and emotional beats of the manga, bringing Oji’s internal monologues and his interactions with his cute merchandise to vibrant life. Fans of the manga and newcomers alike will be able to enjoy the delightful journey of a middle-aged man finding joy and connection through his love for kawaii culture. The countdown to 2026 begins for this much-anticipated adaptation.
