The romantic comedy manga, Smoking Behind the Supermarket with You, is officially becoming an anime! Fans of the age-gap story can look forward to seeing it on TV sometime in 2026. An official website and X (formerly Twitter) account are now available for the TV anime, which is based on the manga by Jinushi.
While details are still limited, the announcement has generated excitement among manga readers. To celebrate, an illustration has been released, giving fans a taste of what’s to come.
The original manga started as a webcomic on X in March 2022. It quickly gained popularity and was picked up by Monthly Big Gangan magazine. In 2022, it even won an award in the web category of the Next Manga Award. Square Enix publishes the series in English, making it accessible to a wider audience.
What’s the Story About?
The story of Smoking Behind the Supermarket with You revolves around Sasaki, a 45-year-old office worker who is tired of his job. His only comfort comes from smoking and the friendly face of Yamada, a cashier at the local supermarket. One day, after a particularly rough day at work, Sasaki can’t find Yamada. Instead, he meets a striking woman who invites him to share a smoke. He believes he’s made a new friend named Tayama, who enjoys teasing him. However, Sasaki doesn’t realize that Tayama is someone he already knows!
The anime adaptation promises to bring this heartwarming and humorous story to life, with fans eager to see how the characters and their relationships will be portrayed on screen.
Why This Anime is Generating Buzz
Several factors contribute to the anticipation surrounding the Smoking Behind the Supermarket with You anime adaptation:
- Unique Premise: The age-gap romance combined with everyday settings like a supermarket creates a relatable and engaging story.
- Relatable Characters: Sasaki’s struggles with work and finding solace in simple pleasures resonate with many viewers.
- Humor and Heart: The series balances comedic moments with genuine emotional connections between the characters.
- Visual Appeal: The announcement illustration hints at a visually appealing anime adaptation, capturing the essence of the manga’s art style.
What to Expect from the Anime
While specific details about the anime are scarce, fans can expect the following:
- Faithful Adaptation: The anime is likely to follow the main storyline of the manga, adapting key events and character interactions.
- Voice Acting: The voice actors will play a crucial role in bringing the characters to life, capturing their personalities and emotions.
- Animation Quality: High-quality animation will enhance the visual appeal of the series, making it a treat to watch.
- Soundtrack: The music will set the tone and mood of the anime, complementing the story and enhancing the emotional impact.
The Appeal of Age-Gap Romances
Age-gap romances have become increasingly popular in recent years, captivating audiences with their unique dynamics and challenges. These stories often explore themes of:
- Breaking Societal Norms: Age-gap relationships challenge traditional expectations and societal norms surrounding love and relationships.
- Different Perspectives: The age difference can lead to different perspectives and experiences, enriching the relationship and providing opportunities for growth.
- Emotional Maturity: Older partners may bring emotional maturity and stability to the relationship, while younger partners may bring a sense of adventure and spontaneity.
- Overcoming Obstacles: Age-gap couples often face external challenges, such as societal judgment and family disapproval, which they must overcome together.
The Significance of Everyday Settings
The setting of Smoking Behind the Supermarket with You, with its focus on everyday locations like a supermarket and a smoking area, adds to the relatability and charm of the story. These settings:
- Create a Sense of Familiarity: Viewers can easily imagine themselves in these settings, making the story more relatable and engaging.
- Highlight the Mundane: The story finds beauty and connection in the mundane aspects of life, reminding viewers to appreciate the small moments.
- Provide a Backdrop for Connection: The shared experience of smoking behind the supermarket becomes a catalyst for connection and friendship between the characters.
The Impact of Webcomics
The success of Smoking Behind the Supermarket with You as a webcomic highlights the growing influence of online platforms in the manga industry. Webcomics:
- Provide Opportunities for New Creators: Webcomics offer a platform for aspiring manga artists to showcase their work and build a following.
- Reach a Wider Audience: Webcomics can be easily shared and accessed online, reaching a global audience.
- Experiment with Different Styles: Webcomics allow creators to experiment with different art styles and storytelling techniques.
- Gain Recognition: Successful webcomics can be picked up by publishers and adapted into print manga or anime.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As fans eagerly await the release of the Smoking Behind the Supermarket with You anime in 2026, anticipation continues to build. The anime promises to be a heartwarming and humorous adaptation of a beloved manga, exploring themes of love, connection, and finding solace in unexpected places. With its unique premise, relatable characters, and charming setting, this anime is sure to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impression.
Keep an eye on the official website and X (formerly Twitter) account for more updates and details as the release date approaches. Get ready to experience the heartwarming story of Sasaki and Yamada in a whole new way!