The popular Crunchyroll detective series, The Apothecary Diaries, is set to have its "biggest year yet" with the upcoming third season and an original theatrical film, according to producer Takao Iwata. The anime, which premiered in 2023, has gained significant popularity for its intricate palace conspiracies and the developing dynamic between apothecary Maomao and imperial official Jinshi.
Season 3, scheduled to premiere on October 3, will expand the series' narrative by taking Maomao to the Western Capital. There, she will become involved in a new set of events including a locust plague and the mystery of an "immortal maiden." This new setting will offer a different atmosphere, visually and through its musical score, according to Iwata. The first half of season 3 will consist of 12 weekly episodes, followed by an original theatrical film in December, and then the second cour of season 3 in April 2027.
The film will feature a completely original story penned by The Apothecary Diaries creator Hyūganatsu. Directed by Norihiro Naganuma, who helmed the first season, the movie is intended to fit seamlessly into the series' canon and will chronologically take place between seasons 2 and 3. Iwata noted that the original author's involvement extends to script meetings and voice recording sessions for the anime, ensuring faithfulness to the source material while incorporating new ideas.
Season 2 saw Jinshi's true identity revealed and Maomao uncover an ongoing conspiracy threatening the imperial family. The upcoming season will see Maomao return to the pleasure district while Jinshi resumes his duties as the emperor's brother. Despite their different positions, their central relationship remains a core focus, with Iwata hinting at continued evolution in their dynamic. The series has consistently balanced comedy, romance, mystery, and political drama, a tone that the production aims to preserve by respecting the original novels.
Producer Iwata expressed excitement for audiences to experience the entirely new story presented in the upcoming film, marking the first time this narrative will be brought to screen. The interconnected release of the television series and theatrical film highlights a significant expansion for The Apothecary Diaries anime franchise. Beyond the main productions, plans are underway for various initiatives aimed at deepening fan engagement with the series and its characters throughout 2026 and 2027.