The highly anticipated return of CLAMP’s xxxHolic manga sequel is finally on the horizon. After an eight-year hiatus, the series, titled xxxHolic: Rei, is set to resume serialization in April 2025. This news has sent waves of excitement through the manga and anime community, as fans eagerly await the continuation of the beloved supernatural story.
The Return of xxxHolic: Rei
The announcement came from Kodansha, confirming that xxxHolic: Rei will be back in the 21st issue of their Young Magazine on April 21, 2025. This marks the end of a long wait for fans who have been following the series since its initial launch in 2013. The sequel, which began its run in March 2013, experienced several interruptions, including a hiatus from July 2014 to April 2015, and then went on an indefinite break in March 2017.
A Long-Awaited Continuation
The return of xxxHolic: Rei is not just a resumption of the story but also a testament to the enduring popularity of CLAMP’s work. The group, known for their intricate plots and distinctive art style, has created a lasting legacy in the manga world. The original xxxHolic manga, which ran from 2003 to 2011, spanned 19 volumes and laid the foundation for the unique world that xxxHolic: Rei explores. The series’ return is a significant event for fans who have followed Kimihiro Watanuki’s journey with the mysterious Yuko Ichihara.
What to Expect
While the exact details of the continuation are yet to be revealed, fans can expect to delve deeper into the complex relationship between Watanuki and the enigmatic Space-Time Witch, Yuko. The series is known for its exploration of wishes, consequences, and the supernatural, and the sequel will likely continue to examine these themes. Kodansha USA publishes the English-language versions of the manga, ensuring that international fans can also follow the story as it unfolds. The question of the serialization schedule remains open, whether it will follow a weekly, monthly or an irregular publication.
The Legacy of xxxHolic
xxxHolic, stylized as ×××HOLiC, is a Japanese manga series created by the renowned manga group CLAMP. The series is a unique blend of dark fantasy, revolving around the life of Kimihiro Watanuki, a high school student who is troubled by his ability to see the supernatural. His life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters Yuko Ichihara, a powerful witch who owns a wish-granting shop.
The Premise
The narrative is set in modern-day Japan, where Watanuki’s ability to see spirits causes him constant distress. Seeking relief from his supernatural encounters, he stumbles upon Yuko’s shop, where wishes come with a price. To have his ability removed, he is obliged to work for Yuko, leading him into a world of magic, spirits, and the often-unseen aspects of reality. This premise is not only the cornerstone of the original series but also continues to be a driving force in the sequel.
Crossover with Tsubasa: Reservoir Chronicle
Notably, xxxHolic is interconnected with another of CLAMP’s works, Tsubasa: Reservoir Chronicle. This crossover is a significant part of the CLAMP universe, where characters from different series often make appearances, creating a complex web of interconnected narratives. The link between Watanuki, Yuko, and the characters from Tsubasa enriches the storyline.
Adaptations Across Media
The popularity of xxxHolic has led to its adaptation across various media, solidifying its place in pop culture. These adaptations include:
- Anime Series: The manga has been adapted into two anime television series, the first airing from 2006 to 2008, and a second season titled xxxHolic: Kei. These series are licensed by Crunchyroll.
- Anime Films and OVAs: The franchise also includes an animated film and several original video animations (OVAs).
- Live-Action Film: A live-action film adaptation was released in April 2022.
- Novel: The series has also been adapted into a novel titled xxxHolic: AnotherHolic.
- Stage Play: There has also been a stage play adaptation, indicating the series’ broad appeal across different formats.
CLAMP: The Visionary Creators
CLAMP is an all-female Japanese manga artist group that has garnered widespread recognition for their unique storytelling and artistic style. The group is composed of four members: Nanase Ohkawa, Mokona, Tsubaki Nekoi, and Satsuki Igarashi. Their ability to blend genres and create intricate narratives has made them a global phenomenon.
Notable Works
Besides xxxHolic, CLAMP is also renowned for several other iconic manga series, including:
- Cardcaptor Sakura: A magical girl series that follows the adventures of Sakura Kinomoto. It also has a sequel called Cardcaptor Sakura: Clear Card.
- Magic Knight Rayearth: A fantasy adventure that combines mecha elements.
- Chobits: A science fiction story exploring the relationship between humans and androids.
- Tsubasa: Reservoir Chronicle: A cross-dimensional adventure.
- X (X/1999): A dark fantasy series set in a post-apocalyptic Tokyo.
Unique Style and Themes
CLAMP’s works are characterized by their distinctive art style, which blends delicate lines with dynamic action sequences. They also explore complex themes, often dealing with issues of love, loss, identity, and the supernatural. Their stories often feature a deep understanding of human emotions and social dynamics, making their work relatable to a wide audience. CLAMP’s works frequently cross-reference each other, with characters reappearing in multiple series, creating a shared universe that fans adore. Their ability to seamlessly blend fantasy with reality and present unique stories has solidified their position as leaders in the manga industry. They are noted as among the most critically and commercially acclaimed manga artists in Japan, and as of 2007, have sold nearly 100 million books worldwide.
Looking Ahead
The return of xxxHolic: Rei is not only a welcome comeback but also an opportunity to revisit the intricate world of CLAMP’s creation. The series has resonated with fans for its unique storytelling, compelling characters, and profound exploration of complex themes. As the manga resumes serialization, fans around the world eagerly await the next chapter in Watanuki’s journey, hopeful that this long hiatus will result in a rich and engaging continuation of the story. The release date of April 21, 2025, is circled on many calendars, and the anticipation is palpable, making this one of the most anticipated manga returns in recent years.
