The highly anticipated fourth episode of New Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt premiered on July 30, 2025, and is now available for streaming on Prime Video. The latest installment, comprising segments #7, #8, and #9, has already garnered attention for its unique narrative approach and a surprising exploration of its titular characters, particularly Panty.
Episode 4: Segment Breakdown and Critical Reception
Episode 4 deviates from previous patterns by featuring three distinct segments: “Daten City President,” “Pet Cematary,” and “Shoot For Yesterday!” While “Daten City President” is described as a more typical skit, maintaining the series’ signature raunchy humor, the latter two segments have been lauded for introducing new dimensions to the show.
“Pet Cematary” reportedly reveals a deeper, less detached side to Panty’s character, hinting at a hidden affection for those in her life beneath her arrogant facade. The segment “Shoot For Yesterday!” has been especially highlighted by critics as a standout, potentially marking a pivotal moment for the new series to carve out its own legacy. This segment, helmed by Kai Ikarashi who handled writing, storyboarding, animation, and direction, introduces a unique “Ghost” that transforms characters into old-school cartoon and comic figures, showcasing the anime’s artistic sensibilities and delivering what many consider the strongest part of the new season so far. It also features an homage to 1960s animation and the legendary comic artist Jack Kirby.
The Return of the Anarchy Sisters
New Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt is a continuation of the original anime series that first aired from October to December 2010. After more than a decade of anticipation and legal complexities surrounding intellectual property rights, Studio Trigger, founded by original director Hiroyuki Imaishi and other key staff who departed Gainax, successfully acquired the rights to the franchise in 2022.
The new series officially premiered in July 2025, with a world premiere event held at Anime Expo 2025 on July 4. Many of the original creative talents have returned for the continuation, including Hiroyuki Imaishi as series director, Hiromi Wakabayashi as co-director and handling series composition, and Atsushi Nishigori as character designer, with contributions from Shigeto Koyama, Sushio, and Masaru Sakamoto. The return of familiar voices in the cast and soundtrack has also been noted by fans.
The new season introduces two new angel brothers, Polyester and Polyurethane, sent from heaven to Daten City, adding fresh dynamics to the chaotic adventures of Panty and Stocking as they continue to battle Ghosts. Viewers should be aware that the series is being released in both censored and “original” (uncensored) versions, with the uncensored version airing slightly later in Japan.
The reception to Episode 4 suggests that New Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt is beginning to distinguish itself, delivering both the expected irreverent humor and unexpected narrative depth that could define its own path apart from the beloved original.