In a significant milestone for modern supernatural romance anime, a special commemorative website has officially launched to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the television anime adaptation of Inu x Boku SS (originally broadcast in January 2012). This promotional campaign serves as a prelude to the series’ official 15th-anniversary year in 2027.
To inaugurate the celebrations, the franchise organizers have confirmed a major stage event at the upcoming Kitakyushu Pop Culture Festival (KPF) 2026, scheduled for November 28 and 29, 2026. The commemorative panel, set to take place on Saturday, November 28, will feature live appearances by lead voice actresses Rina Hidaka (the voice of Ririchiyo Shirakiin) and Yoko Hikasa (the voice of Nobara Yukinokouji).
Alongside these announcements, a comprehensive suite of retrospective comments has been released by the anime’s core production staff and main cast. These statements offer deep reflections on the series’ production in 2012, its enduring cultural legacy, and the creative genius of its late author, Cocoa Fujiwara. The launch of this anniversary portal marks a concerted effort by production committee members and Square Enix to preserve and celebrate a franchise that continues to hold a dedicated global fanbase.
Detailed Chronology
The trajectory of Inu x Boku SS spans nearly two decades of publication history, tragic loss, and institutional preservation. Understanding its timeline reveals how a late-night supernatural comedy evolved into an enduring classic of the josei-adjacent shonen fantasy genre.
[May 2009] ------- Manga Serialization Begins in Square Enix's Monthly Gangan JOKER
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[Jan 2012] ------- TV Anime Adaptation Broadcasts (Directed by Naokatsu Tsuda)
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[Apr 2015] ------- Tragic Passing of Original Creator Cocoa Fujiwara (Age 31)
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[2024] ----------- "Inu x Boku SS" Retrospective Exhibition Held in Tokyo
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[Nov 2026] ------- 15th Anniversary Campaign Portal Opens & KPF 2026 Stage Event
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[Jan 2027] ------- Official 15th Anniversary of the TV Anime Broadcast
1. The Genesis: Gangan JOKER and Cocoa Fujiwara (2009–2011)
The original manga, written and illustrated by Cocoa Fujiwara, began serialization in the inaugural May 2009 issue of Square Enix’s Monthly Gangan JOKER. The narrative quickly distinguished itself through its sophisticated character designs, sharp wit, and a surprisingly dark undertone concerning trauma, ancestral burdens, and reincarnation. Fujiwara’s work blended folklore (Yokai mythology) with modern high-society aesthetics, creating a unique subgenre of romantic comedy.
2. The Adaptation: David Production’s Pivotal Milestone (2012)
In January 2012, the television anime adaptation premiered. Produced by david production—then a rising studio that had yet to release its landmark adaptation of JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure—the series ran for 12 episodes (plus a special 13th OVA episode). Directed by Naokatsu Tsuda, the anime was lauded for its faithful character designs, exceptional voice-acting chemistry, and highly stylized, character-driven ending sequences.
In April 2015, the anime community was devastated by the sudden passing of Cocoa Fujiwara at the age of 31. This tragic loss halted her ongoing work but galvanized Square Enix and the production committee to protect her creative legacy. In 2024, a major retrospective "Inu x Boku SS Exhibition" was held in Japan, drawing thousands of fans and demonstrating that the series’ emotional resonance had not faded over the preceding decade.
4. The 15th Anniversary Campaign (2026–2027)
The launch of the anniversary website in late 2026 serves as the official launchpad for the 15th-anniversary project. By hosting high-profile panels at KPF 2026 and releasing extensive retrospective materials, the production committee is laying the groundwork for ongoing merchandise releases, potential high-definition remasters, and commemorative events extending through 2027.
Supporting Context & Metrics
Directorial Debut of Naokatsu Tsuda
Inu x Boku SS served as the directorial debut for Naokatsu Tsuda, who would later achieve international acclaim as the chief director of the JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure anime series. Tsuda’s work on Inu x Boku SS showcased his early mastery of stylistic panel transitions, expressive color palettes, and the integration of surreal comedic visual gags within high-stakes emotional dramas.
Thematic Analysis: Reincarnation and Social Isolation
The narrative centers on the "Ayakashikan" (Maison de Ayakashi), a high-security apartment complex housing humans who possess Yokai ancestry ("ancestor reversion").
The series acts as an allegory for developmental trauma and social anxiety:
Ririchiyo Shirakiin suffers from a defensive, abrasive personality mechanism (coined tsun-shun—prideful on the outside, deeply depressed on the inside).
Soushi Miketsukami represents absolute devotion stemming from severe emotional neglect and identity erasure during his childhood.
The "Secret Service" (SS) bodyguards serve not just as physical protectors, but as emotional anchors that allow these isolated individuals to reintegrate into society.
Production and Cast Metadata
The enduring appeal of the series is heavily supported by its stellar production credits and cast, many of whom went on to become the most recognizable voices in the modern anime industry:
Original Work: Cocoa Fujiwara (Published in Square Enix’s Monthly Gangan JOKER)
Director: Naokatsu Tsuda
Character Design & Chief Animation Director: Haruko Iizuka
Series Composition: Toshizo Nemoto
Scenario & Setting Assistant: Shinsuke Onishi
Chief Unit Director: Takamitsu Hirakawa
Music: Kotaro Nakagawa
Music Production: Aniplex
Sound Director: Satoki Iida
Animation Production: david production
Production Committee: "Inu x Boku SS" Production Committee, MBS
Official Statements
To mark the launch of the 15th-anniversary project, the original cast and key production staff released heartfelt messages reflecting on their time in the recording booth and the lasting impact of the franchise.
Rina Hidaka (Voice of Ririchiyo Shirakiin)
"Is it already 15 years, or only 15 years? Honestly, I feel a mix of both. Even now, I can still vividly recall the recording sessions, where I was supported so deeply by my co-stars and the production staff. The lessons I learned and the words of guidance I received during that time remain incredibly precious cornerstones of my life as a voice actress.
Even today, I frequently meet people in the industry and fans alike who tell me, ‘I watched Inu x Boku SS!’ or ‘I love it so much!’ It makes me realize daily how deeply this work continues to be cherished. Over these past 15 years, I have found myself returning to the original manga time and time again. Inu x Boku SS is a work that I love with all my heart, and I believe it will remain an irreplaceable part of my life forever. To everyone who has loved this series: thank you, and congratulations on the 15th anniversary of the TV anime!"
Yuichi Nakamura (Voice of Soushi Miketsukami)
"To think that 15 years have passed in what feels like the blink of an eye… Rather than nostalgia, my immediate reaction is sheer surprise. Back when we recorded this, the cast was relatively young. If we were to perform those roles today, with all the experience we’ve gathered since, we would probably deliver a very different kind of acting.
However, there was a raw, unique energy in what we produced back then—something that could only have been born at that exact moment in our lives. We threw ourselves into those roles with everything we had, and I believe that desperate dedication is why the anime’s message resonated so deeply with the audience. I would be overjoyed if you took this opportunity to look back and watch the series once again. Thank you for your continued support."
Yoshimasa Hosoya (Voice of Renshou Sounozuka)
"In 2027, Inu x Boku SS will officially reach the 15th anniversary of its television broadcast. Looking back on the post-recording sessions feels like remembering a distant spring from many years ago. It brings me immense joy to see how deeply loved this work remains, even after all this time.
My character, the Ittan-momen reincarnation Renshou Sounozuka—or ‘Momen’ as he was affectionately called—remains incredibly popular. To this day, I still receive warm messages from fans expressing their love for him. I am deeply grateful for the enduring support this franchise receives, and I hope it continues to bring joy to fans for many years to come."
Yoko Hikasa (Voice of Nobara Yukinokouji)
"Happy 15th anniversary to the Inu x Boku SS TV anime! It feels like just yesterday we were in the studio. I used to look forward to the weekly recording sessions so much, simply because I couldn’t wait to see the rest of the cast. That youthful, electric excitement in our hearts was always present.
In my daily voice acting work, I often have younger female staff members come up to me and say, ‘I watched Inu x Boku SS when I was younger, and it’s the reason I entered this industry!’ Hearing that always makes me realize the incredible power this series holds—it truly leaves a permanent mark on the hearts of those who watch it. I am incredibly proud to have been a part of it. I would love to hold a commemorative event where we can all gather and share our memories of those days. Until then—Maniac!!! Please continue to support the series!"
Takuya Eguchi (Voice of Banri Watanuki)
"Congratulations on the 15th anniversary of Inuboku! During the original recording sessions, I was still a rookie struggling to survive on voice acting alone. I was constantly anxious, trying my absolute best just to keep my head above water. During those challenging days, my senior co-stars and the staff supported me in ways I can never fully repay.
I carry that debt of gratitude in my heart to this day. The lessons I learned on that set paved the way for my career. Knowing that Inu x Boku SS continues to live on in the hearts of so many fans is incredibly moving. Thank you all so much."
Mamoru Miyano (Voice of Zange Natsume)
"Fifteen years since the TV anime… it is a truly surreal feeling. Because the cast members were all relatively close in age, the recording sessions were incredibly lively and fun. We brought that same energetic dynamic to our live events, where
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