The Naruto franchise is set to expand with a new manga titled "Shadow Rising," authored by original creator Masashi Kishimoto, and an anime crossover series. These announcements were made during the Naruto panel at New York Comic Con 2026.
Details regarding the "Shadow Rising" manga remain scarce, with only Kishimoto's involvement and the title confirmed. However, the anime crossover, officially named "Naruto x Ninku," will unite the worlds of Naruto and the '90s manga and anime franchise Ninku. Teaser trailers for both projects have been released.
The "Naruto x Ninku" anime will follow Team 7 members Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura on a mission assigned by Kakashi. With Kakashi unable to participate, Naruto takes the lead, but the team finds themselves transported to another world where they encounter a boy named Fūsuke. The series is produced with supervision from both Kishimoto and Ninku author Koji Kiriyama. Noriyuki Abe is directing, with Tetsuya Nishio serving as character designer and chief animation director.
Further updates on the "Shadow Rising" manga are expected at the Naruto Super Stage event during Jump Festa 2027. The anime's release date is currently unknown.
Additionally, director Destin Daniel Cretton shared a video message regarding the live-action Naruto movie. He expressed his honor in adapting Kishimoto's work and his excitement for the project, emphasizing the core spirit of Naruto's character and the care being taken to capture what makes the franchise special. More information on the live-action film is forthcoming.