The Future of Nana Anime: An In-depth Look at Renewal Possibilities
The beloved Nana anime, which aired from 2006 to 2007, beautifully portrays the lives of two extraordinary women, both named Nana, who find themselves intertwined in a tale of friendship, love, and personal growth Will the captivating series make a long-awaited comeback? Let's explore its renewal status
The Nana anime aired from 2006 to 2007 and revolves around two women named Nana, who seemingly have nothing in common. However, fate brings them together when they discover they have rented the same apartment in Tokyo. As they form a friendship, their lives intertwine with romance and the world of rock and roll music. Naturally, drama follows.
Fans of the series may already be aware that the Nana anime did not adapt all of the manga volumes that have been released so far. The single season only covers up to Volume 12 out of the total of twenty-one volumes. This raises the question: will the Nana anime ever continue? Unfortunately, it seems unlikely.
Disclaimer: [This article will contain spoilers for the Nana manga and anime.]
Nana anime: Is the return inevitable or unlikely?
Screenshot of Nana episode 1. (Image via Studio Madhouse) Remaining fans eagerly await the conclusion of Nana in both its manga and anime forms. (Image via Studio Madhouse)
The Nana anime concludes by revealing that it is actually one of the Nanas, also known as 'Hachi,' reminiscing about her early years in Tokyo. In the manga, this revelation serves as a means to delve into the future events. Therefore, the manga alternates between these future revelations and the past, whereas the anime predominantly focuses on the past.
There is still a significant amount of content left for the Nana anime to explore if it were to make a comeback. However, there is a major obstacle when it comes to adapting that the manga is also incomplete. After taking a hiatus in 2009 due to health problems, author Ai Yazawa has not returned to continue the series. In 2022, during an exhibition for the series in Tokyo, she made the following statement:
This exhibition is a special dedication to all my supporters and loyal readers. I deeply apologize for causing concern by taking a long break from NANA. However, I want to assure everyone that I have been gradually recuperating and preparing for this event. In addition, I am determined to prioritize my health while continuing to work on my manga. Please anticipate the future return of my work.
Nana anime likely won’t return
Although it is not uncommon for an anime to deviate from the manga and have a different ending, as demonstrated by the original Trigun and Full Metal Alchemist animes, it might prove challenging for Nana. Unlike the aforementioned series which were shonen-themed, Nana is a complex drama series. Consequently, there may be heightened scrutiny towards any original conclusion or less enthusiasm for its animated adaptation, considering the absence of grand action sequences.
Additionally, the absence of new content for Nana for over a decade greatly decreases the likelihood of the series making a comeback. Even though devoted fans might be thrilled, the studios are not confident about attracting new fans, which makes the success of new seasons uncertain for the anime.
It is not completely impossible for the series to return, however. There have been instances where other decade-old anime like Tiger & Bunny and Panty & Stocking with Garterbelt unexpectedly announced second seasons. Nevertheless, the prospects for a second season of Nana are not very optimistic.
Nana anime ultimate fate
Fans of the Nana anime and manga will have to continue waiting. (Image via Studio Madhouse)
The future of the Nana anime looks bleak as it was cancelled over a decade ago and is based on an incomplete manga. As long as the manga remains incomplete, the chances of a second season are slim, and the manga's return seems equally unlikely for the foreseeable future.
While waiting for the return of Nana, fans eagerly anticipate what Ai Yazawa has in store for them. Regardless of how much time passes, loyal followers of the original anime and manga will patiently await the next chapter in the lives of the Nanas.
Editor's P/S
As a Gen Z netizen, I grew up watching anime and reading manga, and "Nana" holds a special place in my heart. The story of two young women with the same name who embark on a journey of self-discovery and friendship in the vibrant city of Tokyo resonated deeply with me. The anime beautifully captured the complexities of their relationship, the ups and downs of their lives, and the bittersweetness of young adulthood.
The fact that the anime only covers up to Volume 12 out of the total 21 volumes leaves me longing for more. The conclusion of the anime hints at future events, leaving fans like me eagerly anticipating the continuation of the story. However, the major obstacle lies in the incomplete state of the manga itself. Author Ai Yazawa's health issues and subsequent hiatus since 2009 have put the future of the manga in limbo.
