The upcoming anime series, “You and Idol Precure♪” (Kimi to Idol Precure♪), has revealed two new additions to its voice cast. As the 22nd main entry in the widely beloved Precure franchise, anticipation is high for this latest installment. TV Asahi and Toei Animation made the announcement during an online press conference.
Meet the New Fairies: Purirun and Meroron
The new cast members will be lending their voices to two enchanting fairy characters who play a vital role in the story:
- Yoshino Nanjō as Purirun: Nanjō, known for her role as Eli Ayase in “Love Live! School Idol Project,” will voice the easygoing and supportive Purirun. Purirun actually made a cameo appearance recently.
- Miharu Hanai as Meroron: Hanai, recognized for her role as Kokoa in “Acro Trip,” will bring to life the mischievous and energetic Meroron.
Purirun and Meroron hail from Kira-Kira Land, a realm now threatened, prompting their journey to the human world to find the legendary Idol Precure. Their arrival sets the stage for the adventures that await.
Story and Main Characters
“You and Idol Precure♪” revolves around Uta Sakura, a second-year middle school student with a passion for singing. Her life takes an extraordinary turn when she discovers a giant peach-like object floating down the river while walking her dog, Kyū-chan. This encounter leads her to Purirun, the fairy seeking the Idol Precure.
Kira-Kira Land, Purirun’s home, is under threat from Darkiine, the boss of the nefarious Chokkiri gang. When the “sparkle” of Hanamichi Town’s residents is stolen by the Chokkiri gang, Uta’s desire to shine leads her to transform into Cure Idol.
The main cast includes:
- Misato Matsuoka as Cure Idol/Uta Sakura: The central protagonist who transforms into the lead Precure.
- Minami Takahashi as Cure Wink/Nana Aokaze: Another member of the Precure team.
- Natsumi Takamori as Cure Kyun-Kyun/Kororo Shigure: Completing the core trio of Precure warriors.
Production Team
The anime boasts a talented production team:
- Director: Chiaki Kon (known for “Eiga HappinessCharge PreCure! Ningyō no Kuni no Ballerina,” “Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon Eternal”)
- Series Script Supervisor: Yoichi Kato (known for “Wonderful Precure! The Movie!,” “Aikatsu!”)
- Character Designer: Miho Sugimoto
- Art Designer: Rie Iida
- Art Director: Tong Nian Chen
- Color Key Artist: Kumiko Yanagisawa
- Music Composers: Erika Fukasawa (“Wonderful Precure!,” “Soaring Sky! Pretty Cure”) and Misaki Umase (“Kaina of the Great Snow Sea,” “To Be Hero X”)
- Opening Theme Performers: Chihaya Yoshitake and Ami Ishii, returning from “Wonderful Precure!”
Premiere Date and Broadcast Information
“You and Idol Precure♪” premiered on February 2 on ABC TV, TV Asahi, and 22 other affiliated channels throughout Japan. It is also available on Broadcasting System of San-in, as well as on the TVer service and various streaming platforms.
Music Video
Adding to the excitement, a lyric video for the show’s debut single, “Egao no Unison♪,” performed by Misato Matsuoka as Cure Idol, has been released. This offers fans a first taste of the music that will accompany the series.
What to Expect
With its focus on music, idols, and the classic magical girl formula, “You and Idol Precure♪” is poised to capture the hearts of both long-time fans and newcomers to the Precure franchise. The addition of Yoshino Nanjō and Miharu Hanai to the cast further strengthens the series’ appeal. The series promises a blend of action, friendship, and the power of believing in yourself.
