The countdown to chaos and crushes begins as Shinya Misu's You Can't Be In a Rom-Com with Your Childhood Friends! anime locks in its television debut for January 5, 2026. A vibrant second main promotional trailer has just been unveiled, pulling viewers into the tangled love triangle of Eeyuu, Shio, and Akari with a burst of humor and heart. The trailer also introduces the opening theme song, I Love You♡, crafted by music collective HoneyWorks in a unique collaboration with the series' characters.
The one-minute trailer teases key visual highlights and character dynamics that promise a blend of sweet tension and comedic mishaps. It showcases protagonist Eeyuu's internal struggles amid his growing affections for his two impossibly adorable childhood friends, Shio and Akari, all set against vibrant high school backdrops. Dynamic animation sequences underscore the rom-com's core appeal: the irresistible pull of unspoken feelings and the chaos of unspoken crushes.
HoneyWorks, known for their emotive soundtracks that have defined numerous anime projects, brings their signature style to I Love You♡. This track marks a creative departure, as the group collaborated directly with the anime's character designs to weave the song's lyrics and melody around the protagonists' personalities. The result is a piece that captures the essence of youthful infatuation—playful yet poignant, with harmonies that echo the characters' hidden desires.
This time, we received an offer from the anime production team and had the opportunity to handle the opening theme in a unique style: a collaboration with anime characters. Inspired by the world of You Can't Be In a Rom-Com with Your Childhood Friends! , we've translated the characters' “straightforward feelings” and “wavering emotions” into sound, crafting a song packed with cuteness and heart-pounding excitement. We believe this song brightens the story's beginning, so please enjoy it alongside the anime itself.
Following this musical reveal, the official anime account shared a festive treat from the manga's creator, Shinya Misu. In a special early Christmas gift to fans, Misu unveiled an original illustration featuring the main characters of the series:
As the premiere approaches, additional production details continue to surface, including confirmations of the anime's broadcast on major Japanese networks and international streaming availability. Directed by Hiroshi Ikehata at Studio Bind, the adaptation boasts a talented voice cast led by newcomers in their debut roles, ensuring fresh interpretations of Misu's endearing cast. Scripts by Deko Akao and character designs by Taro Ikegami further elevate the visual storytelling, staying true to the manga's expressive art style.
What is You Can't Be In a Rom-Com with Your Childhood Friends! about?
Shinya Misu's You Can't Be In a Rom-Com with Your Childhood Friends! (originally titled Osananajimi ga Zettai ni Makenai Love Comedy in Japanese, often abbreviated as Osamake) debuted as a manga serialization in Kodansha's Magazine Pocket digital magazine in July 2021.
What began as a lighthearted exploration of teenage romance quickly garnered a dedicated following for its witty take on the childhood friends trope, blending harem elements with genuine emotional stakes. Now spanning 18 volumes, the series has sold millions of copies and inspired spin-offs, including short stories and bonus illustrations that delve deeper into the characters' backstories. Its upcoming anime adaptation marks a milestone, bringing Misu's intricate web of affections to life with full-color animation and dynamic sound design.
The official synopsis from Magazine Pocket encapsulates the series' charm:
Eeyuu, a high school boy, has a problem! Shio and Akari, his two childhood friends who go to the same high school, are too cute! They have no intentions, but if they find out that he is the only one looking at them sexually now that they've grown up... it would be so embarrassing! On the other hand, the two childhood friends also have their own secrets...? It's too tantalizing!! Complicated! But childhood friends are the best! A sweet, impatient, and twisted love triangle romantic comedy♡.
With its January premiere on the horizon, You Can't Be In a Rom-Com with Your Childhood Friends! is poised to capture hearts worldwide, proving once again that the path from playground pals to potential paramours is paved with equal parts laughter and longing.
Sources: Official website of You Can't Be In a Rom-Com with Your Childhood Friends! ; Press Release
