Oshi no Ko Ending Analysis: Exploring Themes of Redemption and Hope

The conclusion of Oshi no Ko presents a gripping and contentious finale that intricately weaves themes of tragedy, redemption, and a message of resilience. The narrative reaches an emotional apex as it explores Aqua’s sacrifices and Ruby’s determination to inspire others amid despair.

Aqua’s Vengeance: The Climactic Resolution

Oshi no Ko final — The Ending of Oshi no Ko | Source: Fandom

Aqua’s tumultuous journey for revenge against Hikaru Kamiki, the orchestrator of Ai’s murder and the Hoshino twins’ father, serves as the series’ central arc. His single-minded pursuit of vengeance becomes a driving force in his life. A pivotal realization hits: Hikaru remains a perilous threat to Ruby, now achieving her dream of becoming an idol. In an act of ultimate sacrifice, Aqua chooses to end his life alongside Hikaru.

This heartbreaking decision is rooted in a profound sense of duty, protecting Ruby from the stain of being associated with her brother’s act of murder—an association that could devastate her burgeoning career as an idol.

While Aqua technically accomplishes his goal, his demise casts a shadow over those he leaves behind, including Ruby, Kana, and Akane, who must grapple with the profound weight of their loss.

Ruby’s Resilience: A Lie and a Beacon of Hope

Ruby performing — Ruby as an idol | Source: Fandom

In the final chapter, Ruby’s storyline unfolds through the lens of embracing her brother’s sacrifice while projecting an aura of happiness. The series has consistently navigated through themes of deception, beginning with Ai Hoshino’s life marked by dualities—where she and her twins each embodied stars.

Ruby’s fabricated facade of joy echoes her mother Ai’s battle to maintain a cheerful public persona despite her own inner turmoil. By concealing her grief, Ruby becomes a source of strength for her fans and peers, guiding them to uncover glimpses of light during dark times.

This transformation cements Ruby’s role as a symbol of survival, inspiring those around her to persevere rather than succumb to hopelessness—an impactful message about enduring through adversity.

Realizing Ai’s Dream: The Tokyo Dome Performance

Tokyo Dome tribute performance — Ai’s dream of the Tokyo Dome | Source: Fandom

The series culminates in a momentous event: a performance at the Tokyo Dome, a dream that Ai Hoshino could only ever fantasize about. Ruby’s performance not only pays tribute to her mother and brother but also signifies her ascent as an idol in her own right. Joined by B-Komachi members, Ruby’s showcase, filled with starry light sticks, honors her family’s legacy.

This poignant moment reflects closure in Ruby’s journey, as she continues Ai’s aspirations, embodying the hope and inspiration her mother once represented. Such a triumph amid tragedy reinforces the central theme of the series: resilience, and Ruby’s “lie”ultimately becomes a genuine light for her fans.

Significance of Stars: Parallels to Ai

Ruby with star imagery — Ruby carries Ai’s legacy of Stars | Source: Fandom

The imagery of stars plays a vital role in the narrative’s denouement, with Ruby’s starry eyes symbolizing her resilience, deepened by memories of her mother and brother. Stepping onto the stage at the Dome, Ruby’s reflection on Ai’s legacy illustrates her evolution—from the daughter of a celebrated idol to a beacon of hope in her own right. This parallel underscores the notion that Ai’s love and legacy endure through Ruby.

Fan Reactions: A Controversial Conclusion

Aqua's final moments — Aqua’s revenge is complete | Source: Fandom

Despite the series’s profound themes and intricate plotlines, the ending of Oshi no Ko has ignited debate among fans regarding the appropriateness of Aqua’s sacrifice. Many viewers found Aqua the most fully developed character, grappling with burdens that many could relate to, leading them to desire a happier resolution for him.

Aqua's death aftermath — Aqua’s death seems lackluster | Source: Fandom

Fans had hoped for Aqua to relinquish his thirst for vengeance and live a fulfilling life, perhaps as a doctor or an actor. Consequently, many expressed disappointment at his tragic fate.

Additionally, some criticism focused on the pacing of the concluding chapters, perceived as hurried and condensing significant plot events into a single chapter. As the creator, Aka Akasaka, moves on to his next venture—a fantasy manga—fans eagerly await resolution from the controversial and seemingly hollow conclusion of Oshi no Ko.

About Oshi no Ko

This acclaimed manga has been serialized in Shueisha’s Weekly Young Jump since April 2020 and was adapted into an anime in 2023. The storyline follows Goro, a doctor who reincarnates as the child of his favorite idol, Ai. Ai names her son Aquamarine, while his twin sister, Ruby, emerges from a patient at the hospital. After Ai’s tragic death at the hands of a stalker, who was also responsible for Goro’s demise, Aquamarine vows vengeance, while Ruby embarks on her mother’s path to become an idol.

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