“A Mangaka’s Weirdly Wonderful Workplace” (Egao no Taenai Shokuba Desu) unveiled its seventh episode, titled “I Didn’t See It Coming” (Sōtei Shitenai Tenkai Desu), on November 17, 2025, offering viewers a more segmented yet thematically rich exploration of the unique challenges and passions within the manga industry. The episode moves beyond protagonist Nana Futami’s immediate deadlines to shed light on supporting characters and the often-frustrating reality of creative endeavors.
Unpacking the Episode’s Structure and Key Character Insights
Unlike previous installments that often centered on a singular narrative arc, Episode 7 adopts a three-part structure, dedicating segments to various supporting cast members. This approach provides valuable depth, filling in backstories and motivations that further enrich the series’ ensemble. The core cast includes Nana Futami, a novice shojo manga artist, her cool editor Kaede Satō, and her reliable assistant Mizuki Hazama.
The Enigma of the New Assistant, Nekonote
A significant portion of the episode focuses on the mysterious remote assistant, Nekonote, who was introduced in an earlier episode. Viewers might have anticipated a dramatic twist regarding her true nature, but the reality proves to be a charming and somewhat humorous revelation: Nekonote is simply younger than Nana and Mizuki had initially assumed. This discovery leads to a comical discussion about the need to monitor her working hours to avoid potential child labor law violations, adding a lighthearted touch to the workplace dynamics.
The Universal Frustration of Creative Endeavors
Beyond Nekonote’s reveal, “I Didn’t See It Coming” delves into the shared frustrations inherent in creative professions, particularly through the experiences of Touko and Arisa, who appear to be in a slump. The episode touches upon a universal theme: the deep disappointment that arises when one’s passion projects don’t pan out as expected, or when a series faces cancellation. This shared sentiment, the show suggests, is not a sign of failure but rather an indicator of how much one truly cares about their craft.
The narrative subtly highlights Nana’s unique perspective amidst these challenges. Despite her often-nervous and anxious demeanor, Nana possesses an unwavering confidence in her own manga. The series skillfully conveys her talent not through overt declarations but through her actions and the positive influence she has on those around her, showcasing a quiet strength that sets her apart.
Evolving Dynamics: Professionalism and Personal Connections
The episode also continues to explore the nuanced relationships between the characters, particularly the dynamic between Nana and her editor, Kaede. As the series progresses, the lines between their professional responsibilities and a potential romantic connection appear to blur. Kaede exhibits a growing “possessiveness” over Nana, hinting at deeper feelings that are beginning to emerge. This adds another layer of intrigue to the workplace, suggesting that the “weirdly wonderful” aspects extend beyond just the creative process to the personal bonds formed within it.
Looking Ahead
Episode 7, “I Didn’t See It Coming,” successfully broadened the scope of “A Mangaka’s Weirdly Wonderful Workplace” by dedicating more screen time to its compelling supporting cast and exploring the emotional undercurrents of creative life. By blending humor with poignant observations about artistic passion and frustration, the episode reinforces the series’ charm and its insightful portrayal of the manga industry. Fans can continue to follow Nana’s journey and the unfolding workplace drama as new episodes premiere weekly on Crunchyroll.
