essential Insights:
- SANDA, crafted by Paru Itagaki (the mind behind BEASTARS), presents a unique take on the Santa claus narrative set in a near-future Japan grappling with severe population decline. The anime is set to debut in Japan on October 3, 2025, followed by global streaming on Top Video starting October 4 at 2:53 AM.
- Today marks the release of the initial visual and an extensive promotional video. the primary image showcases Daikoku Welfare Academy, where protagonist Sanda and his peers study, with principal Hifumi Oshibu—who exerts strict control over the youth—hovering ominously in the background. A dramatic entrance by Santa Claus shattering glass symbolizes hope amidst despair.
- the promotional video also unveils key characters and their voice actors: Toshihiko Seki lends his voice to 92-year-old principal Oshibu, who obsessively undergoes full-body plastic surgeries to maintain a connection with youth; Hiroaki Hirata voices Saburo yagiuda, head of the St. Sever Pursuit Unit tasked with capturing Santa. their insights are shared below.
- This dynamic animation from Science SARU illustrates a world where children are heavily monitored while Santa is liberated from a curse thru wishes. The video features initial dialog from newly introduced characters Oshibu and Yagiuda.
- The opening and closing themes have been announced as well; “childlike Adults” performed by yama serves as the opening theme while “Diary” by Soushi Sakiyama concludes each episode. Comments from both artists follow below.
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New Characters Revealed Alongside Voice Actor Insights!
Hifumi Oshibu (Voiced by Toshihiko Seki)
The elderly principal of Daikoku Welfare Academy where Sanda studies exhibits an intense obsession with preserving childhood innocence through extreme measures like repeated cosmetic surgeries. His disdain for adults drives him to monitor his students closely.
Comment
1. What was your reaction upon being cast as Oshibu in SANDA? What message do you wish to convey to fans awaiting this series?
I have always been drawn to Paru Itagaki’s works, but SANDA particularly resonated with me due to its unique premise. Hifumi Oshibu’s character is especially compelling; I approached this role aiming for authenticity that captures his eccentricity fully! Please look forward to it!2. Given that this series features an action-packed portrayal of Santa Claus, what would you ask him if given the chance?
If Santa were like he is depicted here, every Christmas would be far more exhilarating! Though, if I could meet a real-life Santa Claus, I’d request him for assurance that all children can live safely in our world.Profile
Birthed in Tochigi Prefecture
Main roles include Muzan Kibutsuji in Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba and Medama Oyaji in GeGeGe no KitaroSaburo Yagiuda (Voiced by Hiroaki Hirata)
A top operative within the St. Sever Pursuit Unit focused on apprehending Santa Claus; two decades prior he inflicted important harm upon him during an encounter.
Comment
1. How did it feel being cast as Yagiuda for SANDA? what message do you want fans waiting for this series to hear?
I may only appear midway through but felt warmly welcomed during recording sessions which were filled with camaraderie! Unlike many productions where we don’t socialize post-recording sessions much—this one had everyone bonding over drinks late into nights! Murase better keep up!2. In light of this action-oriented narrative featuring Santa Claus—what would you inquire about?
I’m over sixty yet still brimming with aspirations! If given a chance I’d ask Santa how I could become someone who can confidently say they have nothing left unresolved!Profile
Birthed August 7th 1963 Tokyo
Main roles include Sanji from ONE PIECE and Sha Gojyo from SaiyukiThemes Unveiled:
“Childlike Adults” performed by yama (Sony Music Labels Inc.)
A Message From yama:
“What does adulthood truly mean? Simply aging doesn’t automatically qualify one in this very way nor does youth guarantee immaturity.
Coping silently often reveals both vulnerability & strength while facing challenges alone can lead us astray.
I once believed there was merit found within growing older whilst retaining fragility—but now realize whether surrounded or through music—I’ve gradually opened my heart.
The distance between myself & others remains unchanged yet connecting reveals new facets within me—I see neither adult nor child but rather individuals embodying both traits regardless age.
This isn’t about clinging onto one side or determining right versus wrong—it’s about learning trust towards others which ultimately leads back towards self-trust.
If anyone feels caught between these worlds—I hope my words resonate.”“Diary” performed by Soushi Sakiyama (Sony Music Labels Inc.)
A Message From Soushi Sakiyama:
“I’m privileged creating this ending theme song reflecting Kazushige’s internal struggle balancing maturity against childhood innocence—a sentiment deeply relatable amidst today’s ambiguous moral landscape where perceptions clash constantly—the way Kazushige navigates forward despite conflicting voices inspires me profoundly.I hope listeners enjoy both song & anime experience.”
SANDA Anime overview:
Broadcast begins October 3rd ,2025 across Japan
Official X account(formerly Twitter): x.com/sanda_anime < br />Official website:sanda.crimson
Main Cast Includes :
Kazushige Sanda : Ayumu Murase < br />
Santa Claus : Hiroki Touchi < br />
Shiori Fuyumura : Umeka Shoji < br />
Ichie Ono : Anna Nagase < br />
Hitoshi Amaya : Yuuki Shin < br />
Nico Kazao : Misato Matsuoka < br />
Hifumi Oshibu : Toshihiko Seki < br />
Saburo Yagiuda : hiroaki HirataCrew Behind Production :
Original Work:”SANDA “by Paru Itagaki(Akita shoten/Shonen Champion Comics)
Director:Tomohisa Shimoyama
Scriptwriter:Kimiko Ueno
Music composer:Tomoyuki Tanaka(FPM)
Character Design Chief Animation Director:Masamichi Ishiyama
Art Director:Miki Higaki
Color Designer:Saori Goda
Compositing supervisor:Hikari Itoh
Editor Kiyoshi Hirose Sound Director Keiichiro Miyoshi Animation Studio Science SARUOpening Theme:”Childlike Adults “by yama Ending Theme:”Diary “by Soushi Sakiyama
Manga Availability :
Volumes One through Sixteen Of Paru Itagaki’s SANDA(Available via Akita Shoten under Shonen Champion Comics label) Are Currently For Sale!