In a thrilling update for fans of The Apothecary Diaries, the official X account of the anime has announced that veteran voice actress Rika Fukami will join the cast of Season 2 as Shenmei, a pivotal character set to appear in Episode 19 (Episode 43 overall), titled Festival. This episode, scheduled to air on Friday, May 23, 2025, at 11:40 PM JST, marks the continuation of the series after a one-week hiatus, heightening anticipation for Maomao’s next chapter in her intricate journey through the imperial court.
The Apothecary Diaries Season 2, which premiered on January 10, 2025, has captivated audiences with its blend of historical drama, medical mystery, and subtle romance set in a fictional imperial China. Episode 19, delayed from its original May 16 airdate due to programming conflicts, promises to delve deeper into Maomao’s undercover investigation at a festival, with Shenmei’s introduction adding a new layer of complexity to the unfolding narrative. According to the official X account, Shenmei’s connection to the “fox mask” will be a focal point, hinting at a significant reveal.
Rika Fukami, a seasoned voice actress with a storied career, brings a wealth of experience to the role of Shenmei. Best known for her iconic portrayal of Sailor Venus in Sailor Moon, Fukami has lent her versatile voice to numerous beloved anime characters, including Minako Aino in Sailor Moon Crystal, Celebi in Pokémon 4Ever, and Myne in Hunter x Hunter. Her ability to convey both strength and nuance has made her a fan favorite, and her casting as Shenmei is expected to add a commanding presence to The Apothecary Diaries. Fukami’s extensive work in anime, spanning over three decades, also includes roles in Nadia: The Secret of Blue Water and Case Closed.
This casting news follows other exciting additions to The Apothecary Diaries Season 2. Earlier in the season, Toshiyuki Toyonaga joined the cast as Lahan, Lakan’s adopted son, who made his debut in Episode 18. Additionally, Natsumi Fujiwara was announced as the voice of Kyo-u, further expanding the ensemble with her youthful energy. These new characters, alongside returning favorites like Maomao (voiced by Aoi Yūki) and Jinshi (voiced by Takeo Otsuka), have enriched the series’ narrative.
The delay of Episode 19, announced in late April by OLM and Toho Animation, was accompanied by a special voice actor feature aired on May 16 via the ABEMA Anime Channel, spotlighting talents like Takeo Otsuka, Katsuyuki Konishi (Gaoshun), and Tatsumaru Tachibana (Basen). With the release of Episode 19 now imminent, the inclusion of Fukami as Shenmei has heightened expectations, particularly as the series approaches the release of the 16th volume of Natsu Hyuga’s original light novel on May 30, 2025, in Japan.
What is The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 about?
The Apothecary Diaries (Kusuriya no Hitorigoto) anime is based on the mystery romance light novel series written by Natsu Hyuga and illustrated by Toko Shino. Since 2011, the drama series has been serialized on the Shōsetsuka ni Narō website before it was acquired by Shufunotomo, who initially published it as a novel with a single volume in 2012 and then as a light novel series in 2014.
The series also received a couple of manga adaptations in 2017: one published by Shogakukan in Monthly Sunday Gene-X, and the other published by Square Enix in Monthly Big Gangan. J-Novel Club licensed the light novel series digitally in North America, and Square Enix licensed it in print. Square Enix also licensed the manga illustrated by Nekokurage.
Season 2 picks up where the first season left off, following Maomao, a sharp-witted young pharmacist, as she navigates the treacherous political landscape of the imperial palace. Based on Natsu Hyuga’s light novel series, the season delves deeper into Maomao’s role as an apothecary solving medical mysteries while uncovering secrets among the court’s elite. The narrative weaves together themes of intrigue, romance, and personal growth, with Maomao’s keen intellect and unyielding curiosity driving the story.
The second season introduces new characters and challenges, including complex familial ties and hidden agendas, as Maomao balances her duties with her growing connection to Jinshi, the enigmatic palace official. The season’s stunning visuals, intricate storytelling, and historical backdrop have made it ABEMA’s most-streamed anime of Winter 2025.
The Apothecary Diaries continues to dominate as one of 2025’s standout anime, with its compelling storytelling and richly developed characters. The series, produced by OLM and Toho Animation, has been lauded as ABEMA’s most-streamed anime title of Winter 2025. As Maomao’s journey unfolds, Shenmei’s introduction promises to deepen the intrigue, and Rika Fukami’s performance is poised to leave a lasting impression on fans.
Sources: Comic Natalie / Official X account of The Apothecary Diaries
