The latest anime entry in the JoJo's Bizarre Adventure franchise, Steel Ball Run: JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, has finally released its 2nd STAGE and 3rd STAGE on Netflix, adding 11 episodes in total along with brand-new opening and ending themes.
The ending theme, however, is “Shinukaikiruka,” performed by Japanese rapper Yuki Chiba—a choice that has sharply divided fans. The song quickly sparked heated debate after its release, with many arguing that it marks a major departure from the music traditionally associated with the JoJo anime.
▼ It even became a trending topic on X／Social Media in Japan following its release.
▼ Steel Ball Run: JoJo's Bizarre Adventure ending theme, “Shinukaikiruka”
Parts 1 through 6 primarily featured Western songs as their ending themes. This time, the production opted for an original Japanese-language rap track written specifically for the series, prompting criticism that it sounds “corny” or clashes with the story’s world and atmosphere.
The backlash has not been limited to Japan. Plenty of international viewers have also voiced frustration with the ending theme, arguing that its style strays too far from the distinctive music choices long associated with JoJo's Bizarre Adventure.
Even the comments under the official ending video are packed with jokes and criticism, with some viewers saying the song makes them want to switch it off immediately.
Some fans have pointed to the death of producer Hiroyuki Omori in 2024. Omori, who worked on Parts 1 through 6, played a key role in shaping the anime’s faithful adaptation, fashionable presentation, and signature use of classic Western songs for its ending themes.
With Omori no longer involved, some viewers believe his absence may help explain why Steel Ball Run: JoJo's Bizarre Adventure feels so different from the earlier anime installments.
Not everyone dislikes the change, of course. Some viewers think the new direction works surprisingly well, particularly when the music is paired with the 3D animation. Others argue that the backlash has been far too harsh for what is ultimately just a different musical choice.
Musical taste is always subjective, but there is no denying that the ending theme for Steel Ball Run: JoJo's Bizarre Adventure is a substantial stylistic departure from previous JoJo entries. Expectations had also been building since the first episode arrived in March, and fans did not hear the new ending until the 2nd STAGE episodes launched in September. For some, the gap between expectation and reality may simply have been too wide.
Meanwhile, Kroi’s opening theme “SPIN” has received plenty of praise, putting even more scrutiny on the ending theme. Reactions from fans in Japan and overseas remain firmly divided.