Sentenced to Be a Hero Anime Delayed to January 2026; 1‑Hour Premiere Confirmed

The TV anime adaptation of Sentenced to Be a Hero, the dark-fantasy series based on Rocket Shokai’s light novels, has officially been postponed. Instead of its originally planned October 2025 premiere, the series will now debut in January 2026, starting with a special 60-minute extended first episode.

The production committee announced the rescheduling was driven by a commitment to enhancing the anime's overall quality and ensuring a strong debut. Along with the delay came confirmation of a 60-minute premiere to provide a deeper, richer opening to the story.

A special livestream event set for July 26 (JST) on the Kadokawa Anime Channel will share more updates, teaser visuals, and possibly a new trailer.

Key Visual:

Cast & Staff Highlights

Returning cast members confirmed include:

• Yōhei Azakami as Xylo Forbartz

• Mayu Iizuka as Teoritta

• Shizuka Ishigami as Patausche Kivia

• Shun Horie as Dotta Luzulas

• Shunichi Toki as Venetim Leopool

The production crew, led by Studio KAI, includes:

• Director: Hiroyuki Takashima

• Series Composition/Script: Kenta Ihara

• Assistant Director & Creature Designer: Yoshitake Nakakoji

• Character Design: Takeru Noda

• Music: Shunsuke Takizawa

Story Premise

Originally a self-published web novel (2020) turned light novel series under Dengeki no Shin Bungei, Sentenced to Be a Hero follows Xylo Forbartz, a convicted goddess-slayer forced into a penal hero unit. Their mission: fight deadly threats on the front line and defy death—only to resurrect and fight again if they fall. A tense covenant with a powerful goddess may offer redemption… or doom

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Sources: Comic Natalie

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