'Ranma ½' Returns to Screens with Original Japanese Voice Cast

After nearly three decades, the popular anime Ranma ½ is back with a new series, currently airing on Nippon TV every Saturday at 12:55 AM (JST) and streaming on Netflix.

The anime is based on the iconic manga by Rumiko Takahashi, which was serialized from 1987 to 1996. The revival comes on the heels of the successful return of another of Takahashi's classics, Urusei Yatsura, which aired on Fuji TV from 2022 to 2024.

Behind the scenes, various efforts were made to adapt this story for today's audience.

Using the Latest Technology

The protagonist, Ranma Saotome, is born into a family of martial artists. He is engaged to Akane Tendo, the youngest daughter of the family that runs Tendo Dojo (training hall), in an arrangement made by their parents.

While training in China, Ranma falls into the springs of Jusenkyo, acquiring a strange curse. When exposed to cold water, he turns into a girl, while hot water changes him back into a boy. After returning to Japan, Ranma and his father move in with the Tendo family.

This chaotic martial arts romantic comedy is one of Rumiko Takahashi's most iconic works. It was adapted into an anime by Fuji TV from 1989 to 1992. Over 30 years later, the decision to reanimate the series was driven by fan demand to see Ranma move again, using the latest technology.

"Simply put, those leading this project are from the Ranma generation. We grew up reading the manga and watching the anime, and we all loved Ranma," explained Chief Producer Yuuki Hasegawa of Shogakukan-Shueisha Productions.

Staying True to the Original

Thirty years ago, Ranma ½ was created using cel animation. Each character was meticulously hand-drawn on transparent sheets and filmed frame by frame. Today, with digital technology, colors and movements can be precisely crafted to the creators' vision.

At the same time, modern compliance standards have made it difficult to retain some of the scenes from the original series.

For example, scenes of Ranma's transformations often showed exposed chests. "Simply cutting those scenes would take away from the charm of the original," explained producer Emi Sato. The team began with the goal of including everything from the original, updating scenes where needed for today's audience.

Sato reflected, "The debate on how to stay true to Takahashi's original characters felt like navigating evolving standards of what's considered appropriate."

She continued, "We spent a lot of time ensuring that, while adapting to modern times, we remained faithful to the original manga. That meant we included elements that couldn't be depicted in the earlier anime."

*Ranma ½ poster. (©Rumiko Takahashi / Shogakukan / Ranma ½ Production Committee)*

Compelling Characters

The year 2023 marked 45 years since Rumiko Takahashi's career began. While many comedies can feel dated over time, Urusei Yatsura and Ranma ½ have both made a brilliant comeback in the Reiwa era, staying true to their roots while still feeling fresh and relevant.

Chief Producer Yuuki Hasegawa explained, "Takahashi-sensei has always remained at the forefront of the industry, with her works being adapted into anime at key moments over the years."

He clarified that the recent remakes aren't about putting her works back into the spotlight. Rather, it reflects how each generation has connected with Takahashi's stories — whether it's Urusei Yatsura, Ranma ½, Inuyasha, or RIN-NE — during their formative years.

When asked about the appeal of Takahashi's works, MAPPA studio producer Norihiro Hayashida highlighted their "timeless quality and compelling characters."

He added, "There aren't many stories today that can be enjoyed without overthinking." Ranma ½ has already attracted a new wave of fans, and Hayashida is hopeful: "I want both longtime fans and younger viewers to experience it with a fresh perspective."

Original Voice Actors Return

One of the standout features of the Ranma ½ revival is the return of the original voice cast. Kappei Yamaguchi reprises his role as Ranma Saotome, while Megumi Hayashibara is back as female Ranma. The original voice actors for Akane Tendo, her two sisters, Ranma's rival Ryoga Hibiki, and Shampoo, who pursues Ranma from China, have also returned.

Since her days voicing Akane Tendo, Hayashibara has become widely recognized for her iconic role as Rei Ayanami in the Evangelion series. In a message on the official website, she reflected on her early days 35 years ago, recalling letters of complaint she received with messages like, "Who are you?" and "Get off the cast!"

She also shared her thoughts on recording for the new series, adding, "The studio atmosphere is unbelievably fun!"