by The upcoming TV anime Even Replicas Fall in Love has released a wealth of new information ahead of its premiere. The series will begin broadcasting on April 7, 2026, on TOKYO MX and other Japanese networks. Alongside the announcement, fans were treated to the second key visual, a new promotional video (PV), additional cast members, theme song details, special events, and pre-release plans.
With its emotionally rich premise and strong voice cast, the anime is quickly becoming one of the most anticipated romance dramas of the Spring 2026 season.
Story Overview A Replica Girl’s Journey Toward Love
Even Replicas Fall in Love is a coming-of-age ensemble drama centered on Nao, an artificial “replica” created to live in place of the real girl, Aikawa Sunao. Forced to remain inconspicuous, Nao quietly fulfills her role while suppressing her own identity.
However, her world changes when she develops genuine feelings for Sanada Akiya (sometimes romanized as Shuya)a development that threatens the delicate balance between the replica and the original.
Key Themes
- Identity and self-discovery
- Artificial life and human emotions
- First love and adolescence
- Loneliness and belonging
- The ethics of replacement
The story explores what happens when someone who was never meant to live freely begins to desire a life of her own.
Second Key Visual and Promotional Video
The newly released visual emphasizes the duality between Nao and the original Sunao. Their mirrored existence highlights the central question of the series: What defines the “real” person — memories, emotions, or origin?
The second PV provides a deeper look at:
- Character relationships
- School life dynamics
- Emotional tension between replica and original
- Atmospheric visuals and color design
- Previews of both theme songs
The tone suggests a quiet yet powerful drama rather than an action-focused series.
Opening and Ending Theme Songs
Music will play a crucial role in conveying the anime’s emotional depth.
Opening Theme — “Refrain” by Shytorp
- Performed by a three-piece band
- Reflects youthful longing and repetition of emotions
- Symbolizes Nao’s struggle to exist authentically
Ending Theme — “Awa” by asmi
- Soft, introspective ballad
- Captures fleeting emotions and vulnerability
- Designed to leave a lingering emotional impact after each episode
Both artists shared comments expressing how deeply the story resonated with them.
Expanded Voice Cast
Several well-known voice actors have joined the project, strengthening its ensemble appeal.
- Nao / Aikawa Sunao: Sumire Morohoshi
- Sanada Akiya: Ryota Suzuki
- Hironaka Ritsuko: Yuki Takada — childhood friend of Nao and Sunao
- Mori Suzumi: Kaori Nazuka — former student council president
- Mochizuki Jun: Jun Fukuyama — former vice president supporting Suzumi
- Sato Kozue: Rina Hidaka — class representative
- Yoshii Haruka: Shugo Nakamura — playful male student
These characters will shape the social environment surrounding the protagonist’s emotional journey.
Highlights from Cast Comments
Many cast members emphasized the story’s delicate portrayal of adolescence and relationships.
- Yuki Takada spoke about the courage required to protect someone precious
- Kaori Nazuka described the story as heartbreaking yet full of kindness
- Jun Fukuyama highlighted themes of identity and youth
- Rina Hidaka praised the realistic emotional portrayal
- Shugo Nakamura noted the relatable school-life atmosphere
Their reflections suggest a narrative grounded in emotional authenticity.
Advance Streaming and Special Events
Fans will have multiple opportunities to experience the anime before and after its broadcast.
YouTube Pre-release
- Episode 1 will stream early on the KADOKAWAanime YouTube channel on March 22, 2026
Advance Screening Event
On the same day, a special screening with a talk show will be held in Shizuoka City.
Event Details
- Venue: Community & Dining Space Chakitto cafeteria, Shizuoka City Hall
- Guests: Author Haruna Donburi and Director Ryuichi Kimura
- Admission: Free
- Attendance: 80 people selected by lottery
Promotional Campaigns
- Signed poster giveaway via the official X (Twitter) account
- Appearances at AnimeJapan 2026 on March 28
- Stage event featuring main cast members
These activities indicate strong promotional support from the production committee.
Broadcast Schedule
The anime will air weekly across several Japanese networks starting April 7, 2026.
Major Channels
- TOKYO MX — Tuesdays at 24:30
- AT-X — Tuesdays at 23:30
- BS11 — Tuesdays at 24:30
- KBS Kyoto, Sun TV, TV Aichi, Shizuoka Asahi TVvarying late-night slots
International streaming details have not yet been officially announced.
Production Staff
The series is directed by Ryuichi Kimura, known for character-driven storytelling.
Key Staff Members
- Original Work: Haruna Donburi (Dengeki Bunko / KADOKAWA)
- Original Character Design: raemz
- Director: Ryuichi Kimura
- Series Composition & Screenplay: Tomoko Shinozuka
- Character Design: Eiji Yasuhiko
- Art Director: Miwa Kawasaki
- Music: Kanako Hara
- Animation Production: Voil
The team combines experienced creators with a strong focus on emotional atmosphere.
Why This Anime Is Worth Watching
Even Replicas Fall in Love stands out among seasonal anime for several reasons:
✔ Unique Sci-Fi Romance Premise
Few series explore artificial replacements in such an intimate way.
✔ Strong Emotional Core
Focus on feelings rather than spectacle.
✔ Ensemble Character Drama
Multiple perspectives enrich the narrative.
✔ Award-Winning Source Material
Based on a highly regarded light novel.
✔ Relatable Themes
Identity, love, and belonging resonate universally.
Final Thoughts
With its April 2026 debut approaching, Even Replicas Fall in Love is shaping up to be a poignant and thought-provoking anime. The newly released visual, promotional video, cast announcements, and pre-release events suggest a production deeply committed to capturing the story’s emotional nuance.
For viewers seeking a heartfelt romance with science-fiction elements and strong character development, this series could become one of the standout titles of the season.
