Fake Romance, Real Ambition: Seinen Hit 'Now That We Draw' Confirmed for 2026 TV Anime

The romantic comedy manga, Now That We Draw (Kakunaru Ue wa), is officially confirmed for a television anime adaptation, scheduled for release in 2026. Since its debut in Hakusensha's Young Animal magazine in February 2023, the seinen series, authored by Kyu Takahata and illustrated by Yuwji Kaba, has garnered significant attention for its unique blend of artistic ambition and contrived romance.

Narrative Focus: Art, Ambition, and Artificial Affection

The core narrative follows Yuuki Uehara, a high school student dedicated to becoming a successful manga artist. After receiving critical feedback that his romantic comedy submission lacked realism, Yuuki seeks an unconventional solution. He finds an unexpected partner in his classmate, Niina Miyamoto, who has faced similar critiques regarding her own creative endeavors.

Driven by professional necessity rather than genuine feelings, the two protagonists establish a meticulously constructed "fake relationship." This arrangement functions as a laboratory for real-world romantic experience, providing the authentic material they require to infuse depth into their respective manga projects. The story skillfully explores the often blurred boundaries between lived experience and fictional creation, while navigating the inherent awkwardness and genuine feelings that inevitably emerge from their professional pact.

Production Team and Cast Details

The production team assembled for this adaptation aims to deliver a high-quality realization of the source material. The series will be produced by Studio Roll2, with Shunsuke Ishikawa taking the directorial helm. Esteemed anime script supervisor Deko Akao is managing the series scripts, tasked with ensuring the comedic timing and emotional beats translate effectively to animation. Hiromi Nakagawa is responsible for crafting the character designs.

The main voice cast includes familiar talents bringing the complex leads to life: Ayumu Murase is cast as the determined Yuuki Uehara, and Sayumi Suzushiro will voice the pragmatic Niina Miyamoto.

With five tankōbon volumes successfully published by April 2025, the manga provides a robust foundation for a compelling first season. This adaptation is expected to delve into both the personal development of the two protagonists and offer an insightful look into the competitive and challenging world of the manga industry through the eyes of young hopefuls. Enthusiasts of slice-of-life and romantic narratives centered on creative pursuits should note the 2026 release, as Now That We Draw is positioned to be a notable addition to the anime schedule, celebrating youth, creativity, and the surprising ways life imitates art.