Summary
- Hideo Kojima expresses his excitement about watching Lazarus, reminiscing about the experience and committing to view more anime in real-time.
- Directed by Shinichiro Watanabe, Lazarus revolves around a miracle drug with a dark twist and is featured on Adult Swim’s Toonami in the US.
- The initial season consists of 13 episodes, with no current announcements regarding a follow-up season, and includes renowned experts like Chad Stahelski for its action choreography.
Table of Contents
Anticipation has been building among fans of Cowboy Bebop for the release of Lazarus, and prominent creator Hideo Kojima has joined the ranks of eager viewers. The mastermind behind the Metal Gear Solid franchise recently shared his thoughts regarding the series on social media.
Lazarus is a new anime directed by Shinichiro Watanabe, diving into the consequences of a “miracle drug”that ultimately leads to death within three years—a side effect disclosed post-mass distribution. As governments scramble to address the crisis, they embark on a quest to locate the drug’s inventor to develop an essential vaccine.
Hideo Kojima’s Engagement with Lazarus
Kojima recently revealed on his X (formerly Twitter) account that he has been following Lazarus as it airs. He made a remark about how it has been quite a while since he enjoyed watching anime in real-time, noting his last experience was with Lycoris Recoil in 2022.
Feeling a wave of nostalgia from viewing the series live, particularly enjoying the ads from ANIPLEX during breaks, Kojima hinted at a desire to engage more frequently with late-night anime broadcasts.
Watched the first episode of "LAZARUS" in real time. Stuff like the ANIPLEX commercials in between, that feeling was nostalgic. I haven’t watched late-night anime in real time since "Lycoris Recoil.” I’ll try to watch more late-night anime in real time in the future instead of… pic.twitter.com/mE2Q3J1Fbv — HIDEO_KOJIMA (@HIDEO_KOJIMA_EN) April 6, 2025
While Kojima often shares insights about the shows he immerses himself in, he primarily does this on his Japanese account. His fewer updates in English about anime are understandable, as he likely finds it more intuitive to communicate in his native language.
Overview of Lazarus and Viewing Options
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XBMrH1ZQs90https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XBMrH1ZQs90
Created by the visionary Shinichiro Watanabe—renowned for his work on titles like Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo—Lazarus holds a unique place in his body of work as it unfolds in the same narrative universe as Cowboy Bebop, albeit only decades prior to its events.
This exciting series is being simulcast in Japan and the United States, with U.S. viewers able to tune in every Saturday at midnight ET (9 PM PST Friday) via Adult Swim’s Toonami block. Following its television debut, episodes will be available on MAX, initially with English dubbing for international audiences.
Lazarus is set to comprise 13 thrilling episodes, concluding around June, though there is currently no information on a second season. It’s worth noting that Watanabe typically prefers shorter series, indicating that extended multi-season runs are unlikely.
This series features an impressive team, including acclaimed director Chad Stahelski (known for John Wick), who crafted the action sequences. Noteworthy writers include Takahiro Ozawa (from Mazinger Z Movie: Infinity), Dai Sato (of Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex), and Tsukasa Kondo (from Altered Carbon: Resleeved), with animation production led by Studio MAPPA (Jujutsu Kaisen).
Catch Lazarus on Toonami and later on various streaming platforms, ensuring you don’t miss out on this captivating addition to the anime landscape.
Source: X (formerly Twitter)