Fanworks has officially announced that its upcoming short anime series, Uso Tantei Tomanto (Lie Detective Tomanto), developed in collaboration with San-X, will premiere on October 6. The announcement was accompanied by the release of a new promotional video, offering a glimpse into the “cute x mystery” world of the series.
The series is slated for a 26-episode run, continuing until April 5, 2026, and will be broadcast on TRAIN TV, the in-train video platform accessible across major Japan Railways (JR) lines in the Tokyo area.
Unveiling the World of Uso Tantei Tomanto
Uso Tantei Tomanto is an adorable mystery anime that blends cuteness with intriguing cases. The story centers on Tomanto, a tomato-themed detective who utilizes his keen senses to uncover “bright red lies” and solve various curious incidents. The anime’s premise involves Tomanto and his friends, all inspired by fruits and vegetables, solving mysteries with the help of trivia related to their edible counterparts. The protagonist’s name itself is a clever play on the words “tomato” and “mantle,” referencing the iconic Inverness cape associated with the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes.
A Look at the Creative Team
The production boasts a seasoned team bringing this unique concept to life. Yoichi Kato, known for his work on popular series such as The IDOLM@STER Million Live! and Yo-kai Watch, is overseeing and writing the scripts for the anime. Directing the series at Fanworks is Yoko Usami. Michihiko Suwa, a prominent figure in the anime industry with credits including Case Closed (Detective Conan) and Inuyasha, is serving as the production planner. This collaboration between San-X, creators of beloved characters like Rilakkuma, and Fanworks, known for Sumikko Gurashi, promises a heartwarming and intellectually stimulating experience for viewers.
Broadcasting and Episode Details
The short anime will provide commuters in the Tokyo area with delightful mysteries during their daily travels, airing on TRAIN TV. With 26 episodes scheduled, the series will offer a consistent stream of new cases and character interactions for several months. The new promotional video, recently unveiled by Fanworks, offers a sneak peek into the vibrant and colorful world that awaits audiences, featuring the titular Tomanto and his fruit and vegetable-inspired companions.
Broader Collaborations Between San-X and Fanworks
Beyond Uso Tantei Tomanto, San-X and Fanworks are also engaged in another significant joint project: the fourth Sumikko Gurashi film. Titled Eiga Sumikko Gurashi: Sora no Ōkoku to Futari no Ko (The Sky Kingdom and the Two Children), this film is set to open in Japan on October 31, with Yoshihiko Inohara and Manami Honjō returning as narrators. This highlights the strong partnership between the two companies in creating appealing content for diverse audiences.
