The popular romantic comedy manga “Isshiki-san wa Koi o Shiritai” (一式さんは恋を知りたい。, lit. “Isshiki-san Wants to Know About Love.”) by Ayune Araragi has officially been green-lit for a television anime adaptation, Kadokawa announced on October 17, 2025. The announcement has delighted fans of the series, which follows a genius, yet romantically inexperienced police inspector as she navigates the complexities of love through a “fake relationship.”
A New Chapter for “Steel-Faced Rinna”
The story centers on Rinna Miliford Isshiki, a 17-year-old prodigy and police inspector known for her intelligence and serious demeanor, earning her the nickname “Steel-Faced Rinna.” Despite her professional brilliance, Rinna finds herself utterly clueless when it comes to matters of the heart, particularly when she’s around the kind-hearted, albeit clumsy, police detective Meishi Rokutanda. To understand the confusing feelings that fluster her in Meishi’s presence, Rinna makes the unconventional decision to enter into a pretend relationship with him. This setup promises a comedic and heartwarming exploration of first love and self-discovery for both main characters.
From Manga to Anime: Author’s Excitement
Manga author Ayune Araragi shared her immense joy regarding the anime adaptation, expressing that she is “still in a dreamlike state of happiness.” Araragi recounted the surreal experience of seeing her characters move and speak, describing the anime-related materials shown to her as “wonderful.” She emphasized her gratitude for the “most amazing staff” bringing her characters to life and thanked fans for their support, encouraging them to continue backing both the manga and the upcoming anime. To commemorate the announcement, Araragi also released a special celebratory illustration featuring Rinna and Meishi.
The Manga’s Journey: From Spin-off to Standalone Hit
“Isshiki-san wa Koi o Shiritai” has a unique publication history. It initially began as “Rinna Keibu wa Kokyū ga Dekinai” (Detective Rinna Can’t Breathe) and was serialized in Ichijinsha’s Monthly Comic Rex magazine from October 2016 to December 2017, concluding with three collected volumes. This earlier version featured similar characters but was set in London.
The series was later relaunched under its current title, “Isshiki-san wa Koi o Shiritai,” in Kadokawa Shoten’s Monthly Shōnen Ace magazine, beginning serialization in June 2020. As of April 2025, the relaunched series has eight tankōbon volumes in print. The romantic comedy genre, coupled with the endearing dynamic between the serious inspector and the kind detective, has garnered a dedicated fanbase, paving the way for this highly anticipated anime adaptation.
As of this announcement, specific details regarding the anime’s production staff, voice cast, and exact release window have yet to be revealed. Fans are eagerly awaiting further updates on when they can expect to see Rinna and Meishi’s romantic misadventures unfold on screen.
