AKB0048 (2012)
A bold anime reimagining of Japan's iconic AKB48 idol group, set in a futuristic universe where music is outlawed and performance is an act of rebellion.
AKB0048 - Series Information
- Original Title: AKB0048
- First Air Year: 2012
- Last Air Year: 2013
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Animation, Sci-Fi, Fantasy
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (25 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 26
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: Japanese
- Spoken Languages: Japanese
- First Air Date: April 29, 2012 (Australia - M), April 29, 2012 (South Korea - 15)
- Networks: tvk, Teletama, Sun TV, Gunma TV
- Alternative Titles: AKB0048 Next Stage (JP)
- Production Companies: GANSIS, SATELIGHT, Starchild Records
- Production Countries: Japan
AKB0048 - Plot
AKB0048, sometimes stylized AKB∞48, is a 2012 Japanese anime television series based on the popular AKB48 idol group. The anime is produced by Satelight, with Shōji Kawamori as chief director and writer. The first season aired in Japan between April and July 2012 whilst the second season aired between January and March 2013.
AKB0048 - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and get a first look at the world of AKB0048:
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AKB0048 - Cast & Crew
Main Cast
- Sayaka Nakaya as Orine Aida (voice)
- Amina Sato as Yuuka Ichijou (voice)
- Sawako Hata as Suzuko Kanzaki (voice)
- Sumire Sato as Mimori Kishida (voice)
- Karen Iwata as Nagisa Motomiya (voice)
- Haruka Ishida as Kanata Shinonome (voice)
- Kumi Yagami as Sonata Shinonome (voice)
- Mayu Watanabe as Chieri Sono (voice)
- Mita Mao as Makoto Yokomizo (voice)
Writers
- Mari Okada
Executive Producers
- Toshimichi Otsuki
AKB0048 - FAQs
What is AKB0048 based on?
AKB0048 draws directly from AKB48, one of Japan's most famous real-life idol groups. The anime reimagines the group in a futuristic sci-fi setting where music has been banned across many planets, and the idols fight to bring entertainment back to the people through underground performances.
How many episodes does AKB0048 have?
AKB0048 consists of 26 episodes across one season. The first half aired in Japan between April and July 2012, while the second half — known as AKB0048 Next Stage — ran from January to March 2013.
Who wrote the AKB0048 anime series?
The series was written by Mari Okada, a prolific and celebrated anime screenwriter known for emotionally driven storytelling. Shōji Kawamori served as chief director, bringing his signature blend of mecha and music themes to the project, produced by Satelight.
Did real AKB48 members voice characters in AKB0048?
Several actual AKB48 members lent their voices to the main cast. Mayu Watanabe, Amina Sato, Sumire Sato, Karen Iwata, and others voiced the central characters, giving the anime an authentic connection to the real idol group it was inspired by.
Where can you stream AKB0048?
Streaming availability for AKB0048 varies by region. You can check current viewing options — including subscription streaming, rental, and purchase — on JustWatch, which provides up-to-date platform listings tailored to your location.
What genre is AKB0048?
AKB0048 blends Animation, Sci-Fi, and Fantasy. It combines the idol music genre with a futuristic space opera setting, making it a distinctive mix of musical performance drama and science fiction adventure aimed at fans of both anime and J-pop culture.
What are shows similar to AKB0048?
If AKB0048 appeals to you, consider Assault Lily: BOUQUET, takt op.Destiny, or Anime-Gataris for similar anime vibes. For thematic genre crossovers, Whisper Me a Love Song and A Sign of Affection also offer engaging character-driven storytelling in animated form.
When did AKB0048 first air?
AKB0048 premiered on April 29, 2012, in Australia and South Korea. In Japan, the series began airing shortly after, running through July 2012 for its first cour, with the second cour, AKB0048 Next Stage, following in January 2013.
More About AKB0048
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