A new promotional video for THE IDOLM@STER Million Live! ~Itsuka, Mannaka de~ OVA has officially announced that the special episode will be released on Blu-ray in Japan on March 27, 2026. This highly anticipated original video animation serves as a continuation of the THE IDOLM@STER Million Live! television anime series, which concluded its 12-episode run in December 2023.
Delving into the “Someday, In the Middle” Story
The upcoming OVA, titled Itsuka, Mannaka de (which translates to “Someday, In the Middle”), promises to offer a fresh narrative focusing on the burgeoning careers of the MILLIONSTARS idols. The synopsis reveals that as the seasons progress since the opening of the 765 Pro Live Theater, the idols of MILLIONSTARS have been expanding their regular performances, alongside increasing their unit and individual activities.
A significant plot point for this OVA centers around a job request specifically addressed to Miya. This new assignment sees Miya, accompanied by fellow idols Tomoka and Matsuri, heading to an unexpected location: a school. The episode is set to explore the “new brilliance” of these girls as they navigate this unique challenge.
Returning Creative Team Behind the Production
Fans will be pleased to know that the core creative team responsible for the successful THE IDOLM@STER Million Live! TV anime series is returning for this OVA. Shinya Watada will once again take the helm as director, ensuring continuity in the animation style and storytelling.
Yoichi Kato is also reprising his role as scriptwriter, tasked with crafting the narrative for this new chapter. Animation production will again be handled by Shirogumi, the studio behind the visuals of the television series. This consistent team aims to deliver an OVA that seamlessly integrates with the established world and character portrayals loved by fans.
The Broader “THE IDOLM@STER Million Live!” Context
THE IDOLM@STER Million Live! is a prominent part of Bandai Namco Entertainment’s expansive THE IDOLM@STER multimedia franchise, which first began with an arcade game in 2005. The franchise has grown to include numerous games, anime series, and live concerts, celebrating the journey of various idol groups.
The TV anime series, which aired from October to December 2023, introduced audiences to Mirai Kasuga, Shizuka Mogami, and Tsubasa Ibuki, alongside 36 other idols of 765 Production. The series chronicled their dreams and efforts to bring their “million dreams” to life at the theater. All 12 episodes of the television anime are currently available for streaming on Crunchyroll across various regions, including North, Central, and South America, Europe, Africa, Oceania, the Middle East, and CIS.
Previous OVA and Franchise Milestones
It is important to note that this upcoming OVA, ~Itsuka, Mannaka de~, is distinct from a previously released OVA titled The Backstage ~The Precious Feelings That Were Lit That Day~, which debuted on Blu-ray on March 29, 2024. The 2024 OVA offered a behind-the-scenes look at the idols’ preparations for an opening performance, focusing on their camaraderie and the efforts involved away from the spotlight. The IDOLM@STER Million Live! franchise has also celebrated its 10th anniversary, marked by special videos and events throughout 2024, highlighting its enduring popularity and significant impact on the idol anime genre.
As the release date for THE IDOLM@STER Million Live! ~Itsuka, Mannaka de~ draws closer, fans can anticipate more details and potentially further glimpses into this exciting new story for their favorite idols. The March 27, 2026, Blu-ray release will add another chapter to the ever-evolving saga of the MILLIONSTARS.
