The popular mystery-historical drama anime “The Apothecary Diaries” is set to receive a live-action adaptation, with Japanese actress Mana Ashida tapped to portray the series’ central character, Maomao.
The upcoming live-action series is scheduled to stream exclusively worldwide on Prime Video in 2028.
The project is being jointly produced by TOHO and Amazon MGM Studios. Yuki Saito is attached to direct, while Erika Yoshida will write the screenplay.
Producers have yet to reveal the actor who will portray Jinshi, the charismatic palace official who becomes closely involved with Maomao.
Based on the novels by Natsu Hyuga with illustrations by Toko Shino, “The Apothecary Diaries” centers on Maomao, a young apothecary who is taken to the emperor’s palace and forced to serve as a low-ranking attendant.
Rather than simply accepting her circumstances, Maomao’s intelligence, medical knowledge, and relentless curiosity draw her into a series of mysterious incidents inside the imperial court. Her abilities eventually bring her into contact with Jinshi, a handsome palace official who seeks her help in solving unusual cases.
The original light novel series is published by Shunfunotomo and has inspired two manga adaptations. One version is written by Itsuki Nanao and illustrated by Nekokurage, while another is both written and illustrated by Minoji Kurata.
Anime continues ahead of live-action adaptation
The anime adaptation is also set to continue with “The Apothecary Diaries Season 3,” which is scheduled to premiere on October 2.
The third season will be divided into two cours, with the second cour planned for April 2027.
An original theatrical film is also planned for release between the two cours, giving fans additional content from the franchise ahead of the live-action series’ 2028 debut.