A New Stage for Eripiyo’s Idol Obsession
Fans of Auri Hirao’s hit manga If My Favorite Pop Idol Made It to the Budokan, I Would Die have something big to look forward to in 2026. The story, which has already seen success as both an anime and live-action drama, is officially being adapted into a stage play. The production will open in February 2026, with performances scheduled for Tokyo and Aichi.
What makes this adaptation even more exciting is that all members of the idol group ChamJam — including Eripiyo’s beloved Maina Ishii — will be portrayed by real active idols, adding authenticity and energy to the live performances. More details about the cast and crew are set to be revealed on October 12, alongside additional promotional materials.
Teaser Visuals Spark Excitement
To build anticipation, two teaser visuals were released featuring protagonists Eripiyo and Maina from behind, symbolizing the fan-to-idol connection that lies at the heart of the series. The visuals perfectly capture the emotional essence of the story — the boundless devotion of an idol fan and the quiet determination of her favorite performer.
From Manga to Anime to Stage
Originally serialized in Tokuma Shoten’s Monthly Comic Ryu since 2015, the manga by Auri Hirao quickly became a cult favorite for its relatable humor and heartfelt portrayal of fandom. The series was later adapted into a 12-episode anime in 2020, followed by a 10-episode live-action TV drama in 2022.
With this upcoming stage play, Budokan becomes a rare franchise that has succeeded across multiple formats — manga, anime, drama, and now theater — all while maintaining its emotional sincerity and comedic edge.
A Love Letter to Idol Culture
The story follows Eripiyo, a passionate music lover and ultimate super-fan of the underground idol group ChamJam. Her life revolves around supporting her favorite member, Maina Ishii, and her dream of seeing the group perform on the grand stage of Budokan. Eripiyo’s devotion is so intense that she’s willing to sacrifice her savings, sleep, and even health — a hilariously exaggerated yet touching tribute to real idol fans everywhere.
Crunchyroll currently streams all 12 episodes of the anime, describing it as a heartfelt and comedic look into the world of idol fandom and the extreme lengths fans go to for their favorites.
The Next Step in ChamJam’s Journey
With the stage play on the horizon, If My Favorite Pop Idol Made It to the Budokan, I Would Die is set to continue charming audiences in a whole new way. The combination of live performance, music, and real idols promises an immersive experience that captures the intensity, humor, and emotion of Eripiyo’s story like never before.
Follow Anime Insider on Instagram and Facebook for all the latest updates on anime, manga, and live-action adaptations. Stay tuned for more news as ChamJam takes the stage in 2026.
