If you’re an anime fan, you’ve likely heard the buzz surrounding Sakamoto Days, the action-packed comedy manga from Shueisha’s Weekly Shonen Jump that’s taking the world by storm. With its anime adaptation now streaming, this series is poised to be one of the biggest hits of 2025. Here’s everything you need to know about Sakamoto Days, its release details, and why it’s a must-watch this year.
What Is Sakamoto Days?
Sakamoto Days, written and illustrated by Yuto Suzuki, follows Taro Sakamoto, a legendary ex-hitman who retired after falling in love. Now a chubby convenience store owner, Sakamoto lives a peaceful life with his wife, Aoi, and daughter, Hana. But his past refuses to stay buried—assassins and old enemies keep pulling him back into the underworld, forcing him to use his unmatched combat skills to protect his family. The manga, serialized since November 2020, blends high-octane action, sharp humor, and heartfelt family moments, earning over 8 million copies in circulation by March 2025.
Sakamoto Days Anime: Release Date and Details
The Sakamoto Days anime, produced by TMS Entertainment (Dr. Stone, Lupin the Third), premiered on Netflix on January 11, 2025. Season 1, Part 1 consists of 11 episodes, with weekly releases at 6:00 AM PT/9:00 AM ET. Part 2 is set to debut on July 14, 2025, continuing the story with another 11 episodes, making a total of 22 episodes for the first season. Directed by Masaki Watanabe, with series composition by Taku Kishimoto and character designs by Yo Moriyama, the anime stays true to the manga’s dynamic art and fast-paced action.
The Japanese voice cast includes Tomokazu Sugita as Taro Sakamoto, Nobunaga Shimazaki as Shin Asakura, and Ayane Sakura as Lu Shaotang, while the English dub features Matthew Mercer as Sakamoto, alongside talents like Alexa Bliss. The opening theme, “RUN SAKAMOTO RUN” by Vaundy, and the ending theme, “Normal” by Conton Candy, perfectly capture the show’s mix of intensity and charm. Part 2 will introduce a new opening, “Method” by Kroi, promising even more excitement.
Why Sakamoto Days Will Dominate 2025
- Unique Premise and Genre Blend
Unlike typical shonen protagonists, Taro Sakamoto isn’t a starry-eyed teen but a retired, overweight family man with a deadly past. This fresh take, often compared to John Wick meets Spy x Family, combines brutal action with laugh-out-loud comedy and wholesome family dynamics. The contrast between Sakamoto’s mundane life and explosive fight scenes keeps viewers hooked. - Stellar Production Quality
TMS Entertainment’s animation brings Suzuki’s intricate fight choreography to life. From Sakamoto’s over-the-top battles to Lu Shaotang’s high-energy debut in Episode 2, the anime delivers fluid, visually stunning action. The team’s attention to detail, like stretching Lu’s jump scene for dramatic effect, ensures every frame pops. - Massive Fanbase and Critical Acclaim
The manga’s success—over 8 million copies sold and awards like the 2021 U-Next Prize—sets a strong foundation. Critics praise its art, action, and character development, with reviews calling it “a perfect balance of humor and karate-chopping.” The anime’s 10-week run on Netflix’s Global Top 10 TV (non-English) list proves its global appeal. - Netflix’s Strategic Release
By opting for weekly episode drops instead of a binge model, Netflix keeps the hype alive, as seen with hits like Dandadan. The split-cour format (January and July 2025) ensures consistent buzz throughout the year, giving fans time to discuss and theorize. - All-Star Cast and Cultural Impact
With voice actors like Tomokazu Sugita and Matthew Mercer, plus unique additions like WWE’s Alexa Bliss, the anime appeals to diverse audiences. Its mix of Hollywood-style thrills and shonen tropes makes it accessible to both manga readers and newcomers.
Where to Watch and Read Sakamoto Days
- Anime: Stream Sakamoto Days exclusively on Netflix, starting with Season 1, Part 1, available now. Part 2 arrives July 14, 2025.
- Manga: Read digitally on Viz Media’s Shonen Jump app or Manga Plus. Physical volumes (22 as of June 2025) are available, with Viz Media releasing English editions starting Q2 2026.
Final Thoughts
Sakamoto Days is more than just another Shonen Jump adaptation—it’s a genre-defining series that balances action, comedy, and heart with a unique protagonist and top-tier production. Its January 2025 debut has already captivated audiences, and with Part 2 coming in July, it’s set to dominate anime discussions all year. Whether you’re a manga fan or new to the series, Sakamoto Days is a must-watch that lives up to the hype.
