Alice in Borderland Star Tao Tsuchiya Joins 2026 Anpanman Movie

Tao Tsuchiya, known for her starring role in Netflix's Alice in Borderland, will lend her voice to the beloved Anpanman franchise in 2026. The actress will play Pantan, a red panda character who embarks on an adventure alongside the iconic bread-headed superhero.

The new Anpanman film is scheduled to hit Japanese theaters on June 26, 2026. While details about the plot remain under wraps, fans can expect Pantan to join Anpanman on what promises to be another heartwarming journey filled with friendship and heroic deeds.

For those unfamiliar with the franchise, Anpanman has been a cornerstone of Japanese children's entertainment since 1988. Created by Takashi Yanase, the series follows the adventures of a superhero whose head is made of anpan (sweet bread filled with red bean paste). The character teaches children about kindness, helping others, and standing up to bullies like the mischievous Baikinman.

Tsuchiya's casting marks an exciting crossover between live-action drama and anime voice acting. Her previous work includes not only the internationally popular Alice in Borderland but also numerous Japanese films and television series.

The Anpanman movie series has consistently drawn families to theaters for decades, making it one of Japan's most enduring animated franchises. With Tsuchiya's addition to the cast, the 2026 film looks set to continue that tradition while introducing new characters to capture the hearts of young audiences.