The classic anime Chibi Maruko-chan is undoubtedly a cherished childhood memory for many fans. First serialized as a manga in 1986, the series recently celebrated its 35th anniversary and continues to air on Japanese television.
To mark the anime's 35th-anniversary milestone, the opening theme for "Chibi Maruko-chan," "Odoru Ponpokorin," is finally getting a new vocalist after six years and eight months! Popular singer Ado is officially taking the reins. What's more, Ado herself will appear as an animated character in the new OP, which is set to debut with the episode airing on December 28.
Since its premiere in 1990, "Chibi Maruko-chan" has been a beloved anime across generations, and "Odoru Ponpokorin" has been the soundtrack to countless childhoods. The long-awaited change in the OP vocalist, with Ado—known for her explosive vocals and versatile expressiveness—stepping up, immediately sent ripples through the fandom.
▼ The news instantly became a trending topic on X.
"Odoru Ponpokorin" is a tune everyone grew up with, and it's probably stuck in your head right now! Interestingly, it actually started as the ending theme in the anime's early days, with B.B.QUEENS' original version becoming a massive social phenomenon. It later transitioned to the opening theme and has since been covered by a string of artists including ManaKana & Shigeru Izumiya, Kaela Kimura, E-girls, and Golden Bomber.
Since April 2019, the song has been performed by Momoiro Clover Z. To cap off the anime's 35th anniversary and usher in a new era, the official decision was made for Ado to take over, starting with the December 28 broadcast.
Commenting on the cover, Ado gushed, "Being able to sing for my absolute favorite 'Chibi Maruko-chan,' and 'Odoru Ponpokorin' no less, makes me truly, truly overjoyed!" She added that she grew up watching the show, and now, as an adult, getting to sing this song fills her with immense happiness.
Ado also shared that while recording, she paid close attention to the lyrics, the essence of "Chibi Maruko-chan" itself, and the cheerful, lively Maruko vibe created by creator Momoko Sakura. She aimed to capture that "pitter-patter, bustling" feeling directly through her vocals, all while honoring B.B.QUEENS. She hopes listeners will enjoy her rendition with a sense of "oh, the nostalgia!"
Ado's rendition of "Odoru Ponpokorin" will hit major music platforms starting December 29. The brand-new opening animation is themed around "rhythm" and incorporates the stage feel of Ado's live concerts. A major highlight? An animated version of Ado will make an appearance, performing alongside Maruko and other familiar faces!
"Chibi Maruko-chan" will celebrate its 36th anime anniversary in January 2026, and this new "Odoru Ponpokorin" marks a perfect capstone to its 35th year.