by Original “Director’s Cut” Version to Stream on Netflix, DMM TV, Hulu, and More Alongside the TV Broadcast Edition
The upcoming TV anime Yani Neko has revealed an exciting update ahead of its July 2026 premiere. The production team has officially announced the “Evil Dragon Liberation Edition”, a special version of the anime that preserves the creators’ original vision for selected episodes.
Rather than releasing only the standard television broadcast, the anime will offer two different viewing experiences for certain episodes:
- On-Air Version – The version broadcast on Japanese television.
- Evil Dragon Liberation Edition – An enhanced version that more closely reflects the original directorial intent, featuring scenes that could not be included in the TV broadcast.
The announcement has generated considerable excitement among fans, especially those eager to experience the series exactly as envisioned by the creative team.
What Is the “Evil Dragon Liberation Edition”?
According to the official announcement, some episodes of Yani Neko will be released in two separate versions.
The On-Air Version is designed for terrestrial television broadcasts and complies with standard broadcast guidelines.
Meanwhile, the Evil Dragon Liberation Edition is intended to present the anime in a form that stays faithful to the creators’ original production plans. While the staff has not specified every difference, this version may include:
- Extended scenes
- Alternative edits
- Less-restricted visual presentation
- Additional comedic or mature moments
- Content omitted from the TV broadcast due to broadcast regulations
This type of dual-release has become increasingly common in late-night anime, allowing fans to enjoy both the television version and a more complete edition through streaming platforms or premium channels.
About Yani Neko
Yani Neko is based on the popular manga currently serialized in Young Magazine.
The series follows the daily life of a troublesome anthropomorphic cat whose greatest obsession is cigarettes.
Unlike traditional slice-of-life animal stories, Yani Neko embraces absurd comedy and dark humor.
The protagonist—often referred to as the “nicotine cat”—is an unapologetically flawed character who constantly causes trouble for everyone around him.
His questionable habits include:
- Smoking excessively
- Throwing cigarette butts out of windows
- Spitting on others
- Ignoring social etiquette
- Living with little concern for cleanliness or morality
Despite his terrible behavior, the series delivers its comedy through exaggerated situations and eccentric supporting characters.
A Cast of Colorful Characters
The smoking cat’s chaotic life becomes even more entertaining thanks to the unusual cast surrounding him.
Among them are:
His Younger Sister
A caring but frequently exasperated younger sister who often scolds him for his irresponsible behavior.
His Yakuza Cat Friend
A rough-and-tough feline associate connected to the underworld who frequently gets involved in bizarre situations alongside the protagonist.
Together, these unique personalities create a comedy full of outrageous incidents, misunderstandings, and over-the-top humor.
Why Fans Are Interested
Although the premise may seem unconventional, Yani Neko has attracted attention for its bold style of comedy and unapologetically eccentric protagonist.
Rather than portraying an ideal hero, the series embraces flawed characters whose poor decisions often become the source of hilarious situations.
Fans of unconventional comedy series and adult-oriented slice-of-life stories are especially looking forward to the adaptation.
Streaming Platforms
The anime will be available across numerous streaming services in Japan.
Platforms Offering the On-Air Version
- ABEMA
- d Anime Store
- J: COM STREAM
- Lemino
- milplus
- music.jp
- Prime Video
- TELASA
- TVer
- U-NEXT
- Anime Hodai
- Kantele Doga
- Nico Nico Live
- Nico Nico Channel
- Bandai Channel
- Video Market
- Flat Video
Platforms Offering the Evil Dragon Liberation Edition
Fans wanting to experience the director’s intended version can watch it on:
- AnimeFesta
- DMM TV
- FOD
- Hulu
- Netflix
- Anime Times
- AT-X (broadcast)
AnimeFesta and Anime Times will provide both versions, allowing viewers to compare the differences between the television broadcast and the uncensored release.
Broadcast Schedule
Television Broadcast
TOKYO MX
- Every Thursday
- Beginning July 2, 2026
- 12:30 AM (JST)
BS11
- Every Thursday
- Beginning July 2, 2026
- 12:30 AM (JST)
AT-X
- Beginning July 25, 2026
- Every Saturday at 12:30 AM
- Repeat broadcast every Thursday at 4:00 AM
Streaming Schedule
Streaming begins July 2, 2026, with new episodes releasing every Thursday starting at 1:00 AM (JST) across participating platforms.
Different services will offer either the television version, the Evil Dragon Liberation Edition, or both.
What Makes This Release Unique?
The decision to release two separate versions demonstrates the production team’s commitment to preserving the anime’s original creative vision while still meeting television broadcasting standards.
Many late-night anime releases enhanced editions after broadcast, but announcing both versions before the series premieres gives viewers the freedom to choose how they want to experience the story from the very beginning.
For fans who enjoy director’s cuts and uncensored editions, the Evil Dragon Liberation Edition is likely to become the preferred viewing option.
Final Thoughts
With its outrageous humor, unconventional protagonist, and unique dual-version release strategy, Yani Neko is shaping up to be one of the most distinctive comedy anime of the Summer 2026 season.
Whether viewers choose the standard On-Air Version or the creator-approved Evil Dragon Liberation Edition, the series promises plenty of bizarre comedy, memorable characters, and chaotic feline adventures.
As the July premiere approaches, fans can look forward to discovering just how much mischief the infamous smoking cat can cause.
Yani Neko Anime Information
Title: Yani Neko
Broadcast Begins: July 2, 2026
TV Networks: TOKYO MX, BS11, AT-X
Genre: Comedy, Slice of Life, Dark Humor
Original Work: Serialized in Young Magazine
Streaming Platforms: Netflix, Hulu, DMM TV, Prime Video, ABEMA, U-NEXT, AnimeFesta, Anime Times, and many more.
Special Editions:
- On-Air Version
- Evil Dragon Liberation Edition (Director’s Original Version)
