A new television anime adaptation of Anne of Green Gables has been announced, set to premiere in April 2025 on NHK’s E-Tele channel. The anime, titled “Anne Shirley,” will be produced by Answer Studio and will adapt Lucy Maud Montgomery’s beloved novel series.
About the Story
Set in the late 19th century in the fictional town of Avonlea on Prince Edward Island, Canada, the series follows the adventures of Anne Shirley, an imaginative and spirited 11-year-old orphan mistakenly sent to live with middle-aged siblings Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert, who originally intended to adopt a boy to help on their farm. The anime will chronicle Anne’s growth into adulthood, showcasing her bond with the Cuthberts, her friendship with Diana Barry, and her eventual romance with Gilbert Blythe, drawing from Montgomery’s sequels.
Legacy of Anne of Green Gables in Japan
- 1952 Translation: The novel was introduced to Japanese audiences as Akage no Anne in 1952, thanks to a translation by Hanako Muraoka.
- 1979 Anime: A previous adaptation, directed by Isao Takahata (Grave of the Fireflies), featured designs by Hayao Miyazaki (Spirited Away) and Yoshifumi Kondō (Whisper of the Heart). This series is celebrated as a classic in Japanese animation.
- Other Adaptations: A compilation film of the 1979 series was released in 2010, and a prequel series, Before Green Gables, aired in 2009.
What to Expect
With a fresh adaptation by Answer Studio, this new anime promises to bring Anne of Green Gables to a new generation of fans, blending nostalgia with modern animation techniques. Fans are eagerly anticipating the portrayal of Anne’s world and her timeless story of imagination, resilience, and love.