The Apothecary Diaries is officially getting a live-action drama series, with Mana Ashida cast as protagonist Maomao. The adaptation will stream exclusively worldwide on Prime Video in 2028.
The series is being co-produced by TOHO and Amazon MGM Studios. Yuki Saito will direct, while Erika Yoshida is handling the screenplay. A teaser visual featuring Ashida as Maomao was also revealed with the announcement.
Ashida, who was already a fan of Natsu Hyuga’s original novels before joining the project, commented on taking the lead role:
“I was originally a huge fan of the novels, so there were many moments when I felt nervous about becoming involved with a work I love so much. However, together with the cast and staff, who respected the original work and carefully considered even the smallest details, I feel that the filming period was one in which I poured my whole heart into my love for Maomao and for the series. There were many moments while acting when my feelings as a fan came rushing back and I couldn’t contain my excitement. I would be very happy if I could share that excitement with both longtime fans of the original work and those experiencing it for the first time. I hope everyone looks forward to its release.”
Original author Natsu Hyuga also welcomed the adaptation, revealing that the Jinshi role has also been cast and saying that she felt confident after Ashida was chosen as Maomao:
“A live-action adaptation. We’ve come a long way. So far, in fact, that I thought it would be best to leave things in their hands, especially since novels and live action are different things.
I’m very grateful to everyone involved in the production, as they have each done truly wonderful work.
When Ms. Ashida was chosen to play Maomao, I thought, ‘Ah, I can safely leave this in her hands,’ and when I actually met her, I thought, ‘That’s Maomao!’
I was able to visit the filming location several times, and when I saw the incredibly elaborate sets and costumes, I kept thinking about vulgar things like, ‘Just how much did all of this cost?’
The script, props, hair and makeup, as well as guidance on etiquette and even how the characters walk, all showed a great deal of attention to detail. I think they’ve created something that everyone will be satisfied with.
As an aside, when I brought my niece along for one of my visits, the actor playing Jinshi happened to be there, and my niece had quite the smile on her face.
Thinking that this would set her standards too high, I quietly covered my niece’s eyes. A real-life Jinshi.”
The actor playing Jinshi has not yet been announced.
Natsu Hyuga writes the The Apothecary Diaries light novel, with illustrations by Toko Shino. The series is serialized by Shunfunotomo. The series has 2 manga adaptations, one written by Itsuki Nanao and illustrated by Nekokurage, and one written and illustrated by Minoji Kurata.
J-Novel Club is publishing the novel in English, while Squre Enix is publishing the manga. The story follows Maomao, a young apothecary who ends up getting sold to the emperor’s palace as a lowly servant. She’s not the type of character who can just stay obedient, so she ends up helping Jinshi, the handsome official at the palace.
The Apothecary Diaries Season 3 TV anime is set to premiere on October 2, 2026, with a second cour planned for later in April 2027. There will also bean original movie between the two cours.
