On November 8, 2024, fans of anime were treated to an exciting announcement regarding the upcoming series Medalist, centered around the world of ice skating. The release date for this highly anticipated show has been officially set for January 5, 2025. Additionally, the creators unveiled a stunning new key visual and revealed that the series will integrate the artistry of real-life ice skaters, including a notable Olympic competitor, into its choreographic elements.
Release Details for Medalist
The recently released promotional trailer highlights the inspirational journey of Inori Yutsuka and her coach, Tsukasa Akeuraji, as they navigate the competitive ice skating landscape. Showcasing breathtaking skating sequences, the trailer culminates with the anime’s launch date announcement of January 5, 2025.
An airing on TV Asahi and its affiliates is scheduled for this premiere date, with the Japanese channel BS Asahi set to broadcast it on January 6, 2025. Notably, the production team has confirmed the collaboration of professional ice skaters serving as choreographers for the anime adaptation.
Star-Studded Ice Skating Contributors
The list of accomplished skaters contributing to Medalist as choreographers includes:
- Akiko Suzuki – Olympian from 2010 and 2014
- Yuhana Yokoi – Two-time Japanese Junior National Medalist, now retired
- Hinano Isobe – Currently active in the ice skating scene
Furthermore, the trailer provided a preview of the anime’s ending theme, titled Atashi no Dress, performed by the popular Japanese band Neguse.
Voice Cast and Production Team
The voice cast for Medalist features a talented lineup:
- Natsumi Haruse as Inori Yutsuka
- Takeo Ootsuka (famous for Aqua from Oshi no Ko ) as Tsukasa Akeuraji
- Kana Ichinose (known for Yuzuriha in Dr. Stone ) as Hikaru Kamisaki
- Takahiro Miyake (Gengar from Pocket Monsters) as Yudai Jakuzure
- Kotori Koiwai (Elaine from Seven Deadly Sins) as Ema Yamato
Behind the scenes, a skilled team drives the series forward, featuring:
- Yasutaka Yamato as director (previously directed Nekopara)
- Yuuki Hayashi as music composer (notable for My Hero Academia)
- Chinatsu Kameyama as character designer (known for In Another World With My Smartphone season 2)
Synopsis of Medalist
Set against a backdrop of passion and perseverance, Medalist follows the narrative of Tsukasa Akeuraji, who, having missed his chance to shine as a solo ice skater, meets fifth-grader Inori Yutsuka. Once abandoned by her support team, Inori harbors dreams of skating greatness.
Determined to help Inori realize her potential, Tsukasa takes on the role of her coach, drawing from the wisdom and experience he has gained throughout his life. The central question remains: will Inori achieve her aspirations, or will she face a fate similar to that of her coach?
For continuous updates on Medalist and other exciting anime releases, stay tuned!
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