The Villainess Is Adored by the Prince of the Neighbor Kingdom Anime Unveils Striking Visuals, Core Cast, Staff, and January 2026 Premiere

Fans of captivating otome game adaptations and intricate fantasy narratives are buzzing with excitement. The Villainess Is Adored by the Prince of the Neighbor Kingdom (Akuyaku Reijō wa Ringoku no Ōtaishi ni Dekiai Sareru) has officially unveiled a wealth of new details for its highly anticipated anime series. A breathtaking new key visual has been released, alongside confirmations of the main voice cast, core production staff, and a definitive January 2026 premiere. This adaptation promises to be a highlight of the upcoming winter anime season, bringing a beloved light novel series to life with a fresh perspective.

The Creative Team Behind the Adaptation

The television series is set to be helmed by veteran director Takayuki Hamana, renowned for his impactful work on titles such as Ace of Diamond and The Witch and the Beast, ensuring a skilled directorial vision. Animation powerhouse Studio DEEN, known for its diverse portfolio, will be producing the series, promising a high-quality visual experience. Script supervision will be masterfully handled by Yoshimi Narita, celebrated for Twilight Out of Focus, guaranteeing a compelling narrative flow. Character designs, crucial for bringing the beloved cast to life, are entrusted to Majiro, whose distinctive art can be seen in projects like 22/7 and Macross Delta.

A Familiar Story with a Surprising Twist

At its heart, The Villainess Is Adored by the Prince of the Neighbor Kingdom tells the enchanting story of Tiararose, a countess's daughter burdened with the label of a villainess. Her world is turned upside down when her engagement is abruptly severed. However, a surprising twist, diverging from the original otome game's storyline, sees Aquasteed, the charismatic crown prince of the neighboring kingdom Marine Forest, step forward with an unexpected marriage proposal. This dramatic turn promises a narrative rich in emotional depth, unexpected alliances, and the intriguing interplay of romance and political intrigue.

From Page to Screen: Source Material and Voice Cast

The anime draws from the popular light novel series, penned by Puni-chan and beautifully illustrated by Akeno Naruse, which has been captivating readers since its 2016 debut under Enterbrain, boasting 14 volumes to date. A manga adaptation by Hoshina, serialized on Enterbrain's B's Log Comic, further expands its reach. Fan-favorite voice actors are reprising their iconic roles from the otome game adaptation, ensuring seamless continuity: Yūichirō Umehara lends his voice to the regal Aquasteed, while Takuya Satō embodies Hartknights, the crown prince of Lapis Lazuli. Mai Fuchigami and Yumiri Hanamori also return, much to the delight of the dedicated fanbase.

The newly revealed key visual powerfully captures the burgeoning bond and underlying tension between Aquasteed and Tiararose, visually reinforcing the series' compelling blend of heartfelt romance and strategic political maneuvering. As the January 2026 window approaches, anticipation for this complex and captivating fantasy saga continues to soar.