Coca-Cola's "Yakan no Mugicha from Sokenbicha" drink revamped its promo earlier this April, teaming up with the iconic Crayon Shin-chan for a live-action ad series titled "Another Crayon Shin-chan: We're the Yakan Family!" (もうひとつのクレヨンしんちゃん やかんの家族だゾ！). Fans were initially skeptical about a live-action take, but the series dropped to widespread acclaim, blowing away all those worries.
Just yesterday (June 25), the official release of the sixth episode unveiled the much-anticipated grown-up version of Shin-chan's little sister, Himawari, played by rising star Mei Hata.
The "Another Crayon Shin-chan: We're the Yakan Family!" ad series chronicles the Nohara family's cheerfully optimistic daily life, set "20 years in the future." Fumiya Takahashi steps into the shoes of a 25-year-old Shinnosuke Nohara, while Taizo Harada plays 55-year-old Hiroshi, and Kumiko Aso portrays 49-year-old Misae.
The latest sixth episode introduces the grown-up Himawari, now 20 years old and sporting her iconic curly bangs, brought to life by Mei Hata. At just 23, Hata is a fan-favorite young actress in Japan, with credits including the dramas "Seiten wo Tsuke" and "GTO Revival," as well as playing Moa / Kamen Rider Abaddon in "Kamen Rider ZERO-ONE REAL×TIME the Movie."
This episode was shot in Kasukabe, the very birthplace of the Crayon Shin-chan story – and coincidentally, Shin-chan actor Fumiya Takahashi's hometown! The scene kicks off with Himawari getting hit on at Kasukabe Station's West Exit, only for her to snap back with a sassy "I'm busy!" and "Ugh, annoying!" — instantly nailing her grown-up personality. Later, after her high heel breaks, Shin-chan carries her home, a sweet moment showcasing their sibling bond.
▼ Check out the full ad below!
This ad series has been absolutely showered with praise from netizens. While initial live-action announcements often spark fears of ruining the original, this collaboration has proven way more entertaining than anyone expected. The casting, in particular, has earned massive props from fans, with some even clamoring for a full-blown drama series! It's a rare case of a live-action adaptation completely flipping the script on fan expectations.
The series will continue to roll out new updates. Beyond the Nohara family, even the Kasukabe Kindergarten principal has made an appearance! Dive in and see how this live-action ad series has completely captured fans' hearts.