The highly anticipated anime series “Lazarus,” directed by the acclaimed Shinichiro Watanabe, is scheduled to debut in Japan this April. The news, which has generated significant excitement among anime fans, was officially announced by the show’s production team. MAPPA, the animation studio known for its work on series like Attack on Titan and Jujutsu Kaisen, is handling the animation for this original project.
A New Vision from a Legendary Director
Shinichiro Watanabe, the visionary behind such classics as Cowboy Bebop, Samurai Champloo, and Space Dandy, is at the helm of this new science-fiction action anime. His unique style, which blends various genres and features memorable musical scores, has made him a celebrated figure in the anime world. Watanabe not only directs but also wrote the original story for Lazarus.
Production Details
The series is a collaborative effort between MAPPA and Sola Entertainment. Dai Sato, Takahiro Ozawa, and Tsukasa Kondo are working alongside Watanabe on the scripts. The action sequences are being designed by Chad Stahelski, known for directing the John Wick film franchise, promising high-octane and meticulously choreographed fight scenes.
Music and Sound
The music for Lazarus is being composed by a trio of talented artists. Jazz saxophonist Kamasi Washington is creating the opening theme, “Vortex,” while Bonobo and Floating Points are providing the score, ensuring a unique blend of jazz and electronic sounds. The ending theme, “Lazarus,” is performed by The Boo Radleys. Lauren Stephens from the Formosa Group is supervising the sound effects.
Visual Design
Akemi Hayashi is responsible for the character designs, while Stanislas Brunet is the concept designer, and Miho Sugiura serves as the art director. These talented individuals are creating the unique aesthetic of the show.
Story of Lazarus
Set in 2052, the world in Lazarus is enjoying an unprecedented era of peace and prosperity, thanks to a miracle drug called Hapuna, developed by the neuroscientist Dr. Skinner. This drug has seemingly eradicated sickness and pain, becoming ubiquitous and essential for humanity. However, Dr. Skinner suddenly disappears after the release of Hapuna.
A Deadly Secret
Three years later, Dr. Skinner reappears, but not as a savior. He reveals that Hapuna has a three-year half-life and that everyone who has taken it will die within approximately three years. This shocking revelation throws the world into chaos. Skinner gives humanity a 30-day ultimatum to find him so he can distribute the only vaccine available.
The Lazarus Task Force
In response to this crisis, a special task force of five agents called Lazarus is assembled from around the globe. These agents—Axel, Doug, Christine, Leland, and Eleina—are tasked with locating Dr. Skinner and developing a vaccine to save humanity. The team is up against time and must unravel Skinner’s true intentions.
The Cast of Lazarus
The voice cast for the Japanese dub includes many recognizable names:
- Mamoru Miyano as Axel
- Makoto Furukawa as Doug
- Maaya Uchida as Christine
- Yūma Uchida as Leland
- Manaka Iwami as Eleina
- Megumi Hayashibara as Hersch
- Akio Ōtsuka as Abel
- Kōichi Yamadera as Dr. Skinner
These actors, known for their extensive experience in anime, are expected to bring depth and dynamism to their respective roles.
Release Details
Lazarus is scheduled to begin airing on TV Tokyo and its affiliated networks in Japan in April 2025. The series will consist of 13 episodes. While it is also slated to air on Adult Swim’s Toonami programming block in the United States, the exact date for the US premiere has not been confirmed. Fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting the chance to experience this new anime.
Global Release
The announcement of the Japanese premiere has created buzz among the global anime community, with many hoping for a simultaneous release on Adult Swim. However, details for the Toonami broadcast have not been released, making it uncertain if the US release will coincide with the Japanese debut.
A Highly Anticipated Anime
Lazarus is one of the most highly anticipated anime series of 2025. With the combined talents of Shinichiro Watanabe, MAPPA, and a stellar production team, the show is expected to make a significant impact on the anime landscape. Watanabe is confirmed to be directing all episodes of the series.
Expectations are High
Given Shinichiro Watanabe’s reputation for producing unique and high-quality anime, expectations for Lazarus are exceptionally high. The series is already being discussed as a potential contender for anime of the year, as it combines a compelling story with visually striking animation and an exceptional soundtrack. The mix of science fiction, action, and philosophical themes is a hallmark of Watanabe’s work, making this a project that fans are very excited about.
Watanabe’s Universe
In an interview, Shinichiro Watanabe has stated that all of his original works, including Cowboy Bebop, Samurai Champloo, Space Dandy, Carole & Tuesday, Terror in Resonance, and now Lazarus, are all connected within a single, larger universe. This revelation has added another layer of excitement for fans, prompting them to look for potential links and recurring themes in his work.
A Legacy of Excellence
Shinichiro Watanabe has long been considered one of the most influential figures in anime. His works are known for their creative storytelling, memorable characters, and innovative use of music. Lazarus promises to be a continuation of this legacy, showcasing Watanabe’s unique vision and pushing the boundaries of what anime can achieve.
