One of the most anticipated manga adaptations in recent memory is finally happening.
At Anime Expo 2026, it was announced that Murciélago, the provocative and wildly popular manga series by Kana Yoshimura, will receive a TV anime adaptation in 2027. The series will stream exclusively on HIDIVE in the U.S., Canada, U.K., Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand.
Murciélago follows Kuroko Koumori, a former death-row inmate turned state-sanctioned executioner, and her partner Hinako Tozakura, an innocent-looking girl with extraordinary driving skills. Together, they confront the darkness lurking within society as an unconventional, unbeatable duo. The series debuted in Square Enix’s Young Gangan in 2013 and has since surpassed 2.3 million copies in circulation worldwide, spanning 28 volumes in Japan.
- Chief Director: Takashi Naoya (Am I Actually the Strongest?, Tales of Wedding Rings)
- Director: Matsuo Asami (I’m the Villainess, but I’m Being Doted on by the Crown Prince of the Neighboring Kingdom, Playing Death Games to Put Food on the Table)
- Character Design: Sei Tateishi
- Music: Masanori Akita, Yuichi Tsuchiya
- Animation Production: Satelight (Drops of God, PSYREN) × Staple Entertainment (Tales of Wedding Rings)
“Ever since I chose the profession of manga artist, having one of my works adapted into an anime has been one of my greatest dreams,” Yoshimura shared. “It is thanks to the support and cooperation of all the readers and everyone involved that this dream has finally come true. I am already excited myself to see Kuroko and the others brought to life and moving on screen.”
Chief Director Takashi Naoya noted: “In terms of series composition, I focused our script discussions on how to best convey the appeal of this work within the span of a single cour. My favorite characters are Manjūbito and Hinako. But… in the end, Kuroko really is the best—she’s cool, charmingly mischievous, and even a great cook.”
Director Matsuo Asami added: “On the visual side, with the support of our many talented animators, we are striving to capture the stylish crime-action spirit of the original work, while pushing the erotic and grotesque elements right up to the limits of broadcast standards. We are also putting a great deal of effort into the car action sequences.”
A super teaser PV and key visual have been released alongside a commemorative illustration from Yoshimura.
Murciélago has been a fan-favorite manga since 2013, known for its stylish crime-action, dark humor, and unapologetic edge. With a creative team experienced in fantasy, action, and villainess adaptations, this anime is shaping up to be one of 2027’s most anticipated releases.
Stay tuned for further updates.
Source: HIDIVE
