by It has been officially announced that Atsumi Tanezaki will appear in the brand-new TV anime adaptation of High School! Kimengumi, the legendary school gag comedy created by Motoei Shinzawa.
Tanezaki will voice Reimi Habata, a distinctive music teacher who makes her first appearance from Episode 3 onward.
This project marks a historic milestone: High School! Kimengumi is receiving its first new TV anime adaptation in approximately 39 years, following the original anime that aired from 1985 to 1987. For fans of classic Weekly Shonen Jump comedies, this revival represents a major return of one of the magazine’s most iconic gag series.
Episode 3 Preview Scenes Revealed
Along with the casting announcement, preview cuts from Episode 3 have also been released. The episode consists of two segments:
- “The Gag Effect of Kindness!?”
- “Blessings for the Contrary Person”
These previews suggest that the new anime will stay true to the series’ roots, delivering fast-paced slapstick humor, exaggerated expressions, and absurd punchlines—while updating the visuals and timing for modern audiences.
What Is High School! Kimengumi?
High School! Kimengumi began its life in 1980 as “3-nen Kimengumi” in Weekly Shonen Jump. In 1982, as the characters advanced to high school, the series was retitled High School! Kimengumi.
The story centers on the Kimengumi, a group of five outrageously eccentric students:
- Rei Ichidou
- Go Reikoshi
- Kiyoshi Idese
- Jin Oma
- Dai Monohoshi
They are joined by key characters such as Yui Kawa and Chie Uru, who often find themselves caught up in the Kimengumi’s endless mischief.
The series is famous for:
- Rapid-fire wordplay and puns
- Visual and situational gags
- Over-the-top character designs
- Satirical takes on school life
It played a major role in shaping the school gag comedy genre that later became a staple of Shonen Jump
Legacy of the Original Anime
The original High School! Kimengumi TV anime aired from 1985 to 1987 and became a cultural hit during the height of 1980s anime popularity. Its catchy opening and ending themes were performed by Ushiroyubi Sasaregumi, a spin-off group from the legendary idol collective Onyanko Club.
For many viewers, Kimengumi is remembered as:
- A defining gag anime of the 1980s
- A symbol of Weekly Shonen Jump’s golden era
- A series that blended absurd comedy with everyday school settings
The franchise’s influence can still be seen in modern comedy manga and anime.
Atsumi Tanezaki as Reimi Habata
In the new anime, Atsumi Tanezaki takes on the role of Reimi Habata, a music teacher who brings a fresh dynamic to the story starting in Episode 3. Known for her versatility and expressive performances, Tanezaki is especially well-suited to gag comedy, where timing and vocal nuance are essential.
Her involvement has raised expectations that the new adaptation will not only honor the original humor but also add new layers of personality through modern voice acting.
New Anime Staff & Broadcast Information
The new anime will be directed by Kazuaki Seki, known for works such as Kakkaku Shikajika and Beethoven Fabrication. Animation production is being handled by Animation Studio Seven.
Broadcast Details
- Network: Fuji TV
- Time Slot: Noitamina
- Schedule: Every Friday at 11:30 PM (JST)
The decision to air the series in the Noitamina slot—traditionally known for experimental and creator-driven anime—signals confidence in the series’ ability to appeal beyond nostalgia, reaching both longtime fans and new adult viewers.
Why This Revival Matters
The return of High School! Kimengumi is noteworthy because it:
- Revives a classic Jump comedy after nearly four decades
- Bridges 1980s slapstick humor with modern anime production
- Introduces the franchise to a younger generation for the first time
- Celebrates the roots of school gag manga and anime
With renewed interest in retro anime and classic IP revivals, Kimengumi’s comeback arrives at the perfect time.
What New Viewers Can Expect
Even if you’ve never seen the original series, the new High School! Kimengumi is designed to be beginner-friendly. Viewers can expect:
- Self-contained comedy episodes
- Easy-to-follow character dynamics
- Fast-paced humor without heavy continuity
- A balance of nostalgia and fresh presentation
Episode 3, featuring Reimi Habata’s debut, is expected to showcase how new characters are smoothly integrated into the classic formula.
Final Thoughts
The announcement of the new “High School! Kimengumi” anime marks one of the most exciting classic comedy revivals in recent years. With Atsumi Tanezaki joining the cast, an experienced director at the helm, and a prestigious Noitamina broadcast slot, the series is poised to resonate with both nostalgic fans and curious newcomers.
After 39 years, the Kimengumi are finally back—ready to deliver chaos, laughter, and classic gag comedy to a whole new generation.
