Kakeru Utsugi, the creative mind behind the heartwarming manga How to Keep a Mummy, is set to launch a new series titled Oshi ga Fan no Fan ni Nacchau Ohanashi (A Story of an Idol Who Became a Fan of a Fan). The manga will debut on Square Enix’s Gangan Online manga website on February 25, 2025, promising a sweet and unconventional romance story.
A New Tale of Fandom and Affection
Utsugi’s new manga, Oshi ga Fan no Fan ni Nacchau Ohanashi, presents a unique twist on the idol-fan dynamic. The story revolves around Tanpopo, a high school student who is a devoted fan of the singer Itto. Tanpopo harbors no expectations of ever being noticed by her idol. However, fate intervenes when Itto not only notices Tanpopo but unexpectedly becomes a fan of her in return.
Initial Short Manga Release
Prior to the official series launch, Utsugi shared a two-chapter short manga version of Oshi ga Fan no Fan ni Nacchau Ohanashi on their X (formerly Twitter) account in November 2024. These initial chapters offered a glimpse into the charming premise and likely contributed to the anticipation surrounding the full series.
Kakeru Utsugi’s Previous Works
Kakeru Utsugi is best known for How to Keep a Mummy (Miira no Kaikata), a manga series that began serialization on the Comico app in 2014. This series has garnered significant popularity, leading to the release of 20 compiled book volumes as of December 2024.
How to Keep a Mummy: Synopsis and Adaptation
How to Keep a Mummy tells the story of Sora Kashiwagi, a high school student who receives a mummy as a gift from his self-proclaimed “adventurer” father. The mummy, named Mii-kun, is small enough to fit in the palm of Sora’s hand and quickly becomes a beloved companion. The series follows Sora’s daily life as he cares for Mii-kun and encounters other mythical creatures.
The How to Keep a Mummy manga was adapted into a television anime series by Eight Bit, which premiered in January 2018. Crunchyroll streamed the anime as it aired in Japan, making it accessible to a global audience.
Where to Read Utsugi’s Works
How to Keep a Mummy is available on several platforms:
- Comico Japan: The original platform for the manga series.
- Crunchyroll: The digital manga is available worldwide in English.
- Amazon: Available as a set of comic volumes in Japanese.
- Manga Republic: You can find paperback copies of the manga here.
Exploring the Themes in Utsugi’s Manga
Utsugi’s works often explore themes of connection, care, and the unexpected bonds that can form between individuals. How to Keep a Mummy highlights the heartwarming relationship between Sora and Mii-kun, showcasing the responsibilities and rewards of caring for another being, regardless of their origin. Oshi ga Fan no Fan ni Nacchau Ohanashi appears to be delving into similar themes of connection but within the context of the idol-fan culture, exploring the potential for mutual admiration and unexpected relationships.
Romance Manga: A Growing Genre
The romance manga genre continues to captivate audiences with its diverse range of stories and relatable characters. From classic shojo romances to more complex and nuanced narratives, romance manga explores the complexities of human relationships and the universal desire for connection.
Anticipation Builds for New Series
With the launch of Oshi ga Fan no Fan ni Nacchau Ohanashi just around the corner, fans of Kakeru Utsugi and romance manga enthusiasts alike are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to delve into this new story of idol worship and unexpected affection. The series’ unique premise and Utsugi’s established talent for creating heartwarming narratives suggest that Oshi ga Fan no Fan ni Nacchau Ohanashi has the potential to become another beloved addition to the world of manga.
