The Story of Pollyanna (1986)
A timeless 1986 Japanese anime adaptation of Eleanor H. Porter's classic novel, following an irrepressibly optimistic orphan who transforms everyone she meets.
The Story of Pollyanna - Series Information
- Original Title: 愛少女ポリアンナ物語
- First Air Year: 1986
- Last Air Year: 1986
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Animation, Drama, Family
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (26 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 51
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: Japanese
- Spoken Languages: Japanese
- First Air Date: January 5, 1986 (Germany - 6), January 5, 1986 (South Korea - ALL)
- Networks: Fuji TV
- Alternative Titles: Ai Shoujo Pollyanna Monogatari (JP), Pollyanna (DE), The Story of Pollyanna, Girl of Love (US)
- Production Companies: Nippon Animation
- Production Countries: Japan
The Story of Pollyanna - Plot
Motherless since birth, Pollyanna was an ordinary happy-go-lucky girl, leaving peacefully with her father, the vicar. Then one day her life changes completely when her father dies and she has to live with her aunt whom she has never met before. In the beginning, she seems to be detested by her but as time passes, they develop a very strong bond.
Where to Watch The Story of Pollyanna
Looking for where to watch The Story of Pollyanna?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
The Story of Pollyanna - Cast & Crew
Main Cast
- Mitsuko Horie
- Takako Kondou
- Eiko Yamada
- Banjo Ginga
- Hideyuki Tanaka
- Keiko Han
- Masako Nozawa
- Masako Ikeda
- Hideyuki Hori
- Kenichi Ogata
The Story of Pollyanna - FAQs
Is The Story of Pollyanna based on a book?
The series is a faithful anime adaptation of Eleanor H. Porter's beloved 1913 novel Pollyanna. The story follows the same optimistic young heroine from the original book, and the anime expands on her journey with warmth and emotional depth that resonated with audiences worldwide.
What is The Story of Pollyanna about?
After losing her father, young Pollyanna goes to live with her cold, distant aunt in a new town. Despite hardship, her relentlessly cheerful outlook — her famous 'glad game' — gradually melts the hearts of everyone around her, turning a community of guarded strangers into a loving family.
Where can you watch The Story of Pollyanna?
Streaming availability for The Story of Pollyanna varies by region. You can check the latest viewing options, including streaming, rental, and purchase platforms available in your area, through JustWatch for the most up-to-date regional listings.
Who voices Pollyanna in the Japanese anime?
Pollyanna Whittier is voiced by Mitsuko Horie in the original Japanese production. The cast also includes celebrated voice actors such as Masako Nozawa as Aunt Polly and Banjo Ginga as John Pendleton, lending the series a rich and expressive vocal ensemble.
How many episodes does The Story of Pollyanna have?
The series ran for a single season of 51 episodes, each approximately 26 minutes long. It aired on Fuji TV in Japan throughout 1986, giving the story ample room to develop Pollyanna's relationships and emotional journey across its full run.
Is The Story of Pollyanna part of the World Masterpiece Theater?
The Story of Pollyanna was produced by Nippon Animation as part of their acclaimed World Masterpiece Theater anthology — a prestigious annual series adapting classic Western literature into anime. Previous entries in the same tradition include Anne of Green Gables (1979) and Princess Sarah (1985).
How was The Story of Pollyanna received internationally?
The series gained a warm international following, particularly in Europe and Latin America, where it was broadcast under various titles. Its gentle storytelling, emotional sincerity, and universal themes of optimism and resilience made it a beloved classic for audiences well beyond Japan.
What anime series are similar to The Story of Pollyanna?
Fans of The Story of Pollyanna often enjoy Anne of Green Gables (1979) and Princess Sarah (1985), both produced by Nippon Animation in the same heartfelt tradition. Clannad (2007) and Kotaro Lives Alone (2022) also share themes of family, resilience, and emotional growth.
More About The Story of Pollyanna
Explore further details about The Story of Pollyanna on these authoritative resources.