HIDIVE Secures Exclusive Rights for ‘Murciélago’ Anime Adaptation Ahead of 2027 Debut

HIDIVE, the anime streaming service under AMC Global Media, has announced exclusive streaming rights for the adaptation of Yoshimura Kana’s manga Murciélago, with a premiere slated for 2027, according to a press release shared at Anime Expo 2026. The series will be available to subscribers in the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand.

What is ‘Murciélago’ About?

The story follows Kuroko Koumori, a former death-row inmate recruited under an unusual legal arrangement to work as an executioner for the state, and her partner Hinako Tozakura, an unassuming young woman with exceptional driving skills. Together, the duo confronts hidden threats within society, blending crime-action elements with “erotic and grotesque” visuals, as noted by director Asami Matsuo during a production update.

Who Are the Key Creators?

Naoya Takashi, known for Am I Actually the Strongest? and Tales of Wedding Rings, serves as chief director, while Asami Matsuo, whose prior work includes I’m the Villainess, but I’m Being Doted on by the Crown Prince of the Neighboring Kingdom and Playing Death Games to Put Food on the Table, directs. The animation is handled by Satelight (Drops of God, PSYREN) and Staple Entertainment (Tales of Wedding Rings, Watari-kun’s ****** Is About to Collapse). Character design is by Tateishi Sei, with music composed by Akita Masanori and Tsuchiya Yuichi.

How Has the Manga Performed?

Serialized in Square Enix’s Young Gangan since August 2013, Murciélago has sold over 2.3 million copies globally, with 28 volumes published in Japan and 26 released internationally.

What Has Been Revealed About the Adaptation?

Producers unveiled a teaser, key visual, and commemorative illustration at Anime Expo 2026. Yoshimura Kana expressed excitement about the adaptation, stating, “Having one of my works adapted into an anime has been one of my greatest dreams.” Takashi emphasized his role in “series composition, scriptwriting, and storyboarding,” while Matsuo highlighted the challenge of balancing the manga’s “stylish crime-action spirit” with broadcast standards.

Why This Matters for Anime Fans

The adaptation marks the second collaboration between Takashi and Matsuo and their two studios following the recent Übel Blatt adaptation.