Picture this: A guy who can't catch a break with dates suddenly finds himself adored by a hundred girls, each one his fated soulmate. But if he doesn't love them back, tragedy strikes—literally! This isn't just any story; it's the heart of The 100 Girlfriends Who Really, Really, Really, Really, Really Love You, and fans are buzzing because the anime adaptation just announced its third season. If you're new to this, let's break it down simply: It's a romantic comedy that takes the classic 'harem' trope—where one character is romantically pursued by multiple others, like in shows such as Love Live! or Ouran High School Host Club—and cranks it up to an extreme level, exploring themes of love, choice, and the chaos of overwhelming affection. But here's where it gets controversial: Is a premise involving one person romantically entangled with 100 others empowering, ridiculous, or even problematic in today's discussions about relationships? Stick around, because this revelation might change how you view anime romances.
The official website for the TV anime series, based on the manga by creators Rikito Nakamura and Yukiko Nozawa, dropped the exciting news over the weekend. The teaser visual even boasts a tagline that promises 'I love you infinity,' hinting at endless romantic adventures ahead. For those just dipping their toes into the fandom, The 100 Girlfriends Who Really, Really, Really, Really, Really Love You—often abbreviated as Hyakkanosuki—follows Aijo Rentaro, a young man who, after countless rejections, receives a divine intervention. A god corrects a cosmic mix-up by declaring that Rentaro is destined to love not one, but 100 girls. The catch? If he fails to reciprocate their feelings, they'll meet untimely ends. Seven Seas Entertainment, the publisher handling the English release of the manga, sums it up as a hilarious take on the harem genre, where Rentaro must navigate bolts of lightning-like sparks with each potential partner. And this is the part most people miss: It's not just fluff; the series cleverly satirizes over-the-top love tropes while questioning whether genuine affection can scale to such numbers. Do you think a story like this celebrates polyamory or mocks it? We'd love to hear your take in the comments!
Delving deeper for newcomers, harem anime typically feature a male protagonist surrounded by female admirers, often leading to comedic or dramatic situations. Here, it's amplified to absurdity, making it a standout in the genre. The manga, launched in Shueisha's Weekly Young Jump in late 2019, continues to run, building a loyal following. The anime first hit screens in October 2023, with the second season kicking off on January 12, 2025, at 10:30 PM on networks like Tokyo MX (alongside AT-X, Sun TV, BS11, KBS Kyoto, and Tochigi TV). Crunchyroll has been streaming both seasons with subtitles in real-time, and they even rolled out an English dub for the first one, expanding accessibility for global viewers.
Season three will reunite the beloved voice cast, ensuring that familiar charm returns. Wataru Katō voices the everyman hero Rentaro Aijo, while Kaede Hondo brings energy to Hakari Hanazono. Other key roles include Miyu Tomita as Karane Inda, Maria Naganawa as Shizuka Yoshimoto, Asami Seto as Nano Eiai, Ayaka Asai as Kusuri Yakuzen, Sumire Uesaka as Hahari Hanazono, Amane Shindō as Kurumi Haraga, Suzuko Mimori as Mei Meido, Rie Takahashi as Iku Sutō, Lynn as Mimimi Utsukushisugi, Kanon Takao as Meme Kakure, and Shigeru Chiba as the quirky God. Yūji Ueda reprises his role as the narrator, adding that extra layer of storytelling flair.
Behind the scenes, the creative team is staying consistent to keep the magic alive. Hikaru Sato directs from Bibury Animation Studio, drawing from his experience on shows like Dropkick on My Devil!. Scriptwriter Takashi Aoshima, known for Uzaki-chan Wants to Hang Out!, handles the witty dialogue, while character designer Akane Yano, whose work shines in Bottom-tier Character Tomozaki, ensures the visuals pop. Composers Shūhei Mutsuki, Shunsuke Takizawa, and eba from Trytonelabo collaborate with Lantis for the music, promising tunes that enhance the comedic highs and emotional lows.
As we wrap this up, it's worth pondering: Does pushing the harem concept to its limits make The 100 Girlfriends a bold commentary on love or just escapist fantasy? And with a third season on the horizon, will it address any of the ethical dilemmas it raises, or keep the laughs rolling? Share your opinions, agreements, or disagreements below—what's your favorite harem anime, and does this one take it too far? Let's discuss!
Source: Derived from the anime's official website and Otakomu reports.
