Hikaru Utada Will Perform the Latest Ending Song from the Anime CHIBI MARUKO-CHAN

Kapanlagi.com - Exciting news comes from the classic Japanese anime. Famous singer Hikaru Utada is confirmed to perform the latest ending song for the legendary anime CHIBI MARUKO-CHAN. The song titled "Pappa Paradise" will debut in a special one-hour episode scheduled to air on March 29.

Previously, this anime had been using the song Itsumo no Fukei by Kazuyoshi Saito as its ending theme since 2019. For the opening song, the anime currently uses a new version of Odoru Ponpokorin performed by Ado, a classic song originally popularized by B.B. Queens. Before this latest version was used, the same song was also sung by the idol group Momoiro Clover Z from 2019 to 2025.

The anime itself is adapted from the manga by the late Momoko Sakura, known for its stories about the daily life of an elementary school student named Maruko. This comedy manga has sold around 32.5 million copies, while its animated version has been airing since 1990 and is one of the highest-rated TV anime in Japan. The arrival of a new song from Hikaru Utada certainly marks a special moment for this long-running series. Well, before we hear her new song later, it's a good idea to get to know this legendary anime better through some interesting facts on the next page.

1. About Anime CHIBI MARUKO-CHAN

CHIBI MARUKO-CHAN (credit: IMDB)

CHIBI MARUKO-CHAN is one of the most iconic family animes in Japan. The story follows the daily life of a third-grade elementary school student named Maruko, along with her family, school friends, and the people around her. The simple yet warm story makes this anime easy to enjoy for various generations of viewers.

This anime first aired in 1990 and quickly gained immense popularity. Its first series ran until 1992 before it returned with a second series in 1995 that continues to air to this day. In fact, by May 2022, this anime had reached its 1500th episode.

2. Important Changes Behind the Character Maruko

CHIBI MARUKO-CHAN (credit: Instagram/@kumo_power)

There has been a significant change recently regarding the main character of this anime. In April 2024, a new voice actress for Maruko was officially announced, namely Kokoro Kikuchi, who is also known as the voice of Sarada in BORUTO: NARUTO NEXT GENERATIONS.

She replaces TARAKO, who had voiced Maruko for 34 years since the anime first aired in 1990. TARAKO passed away in March 2024, making this transition an emotional moment for many loyal fans of the anime.

3. Why This New Song Becomes a Special Moment

Hikaru Utada (credit: Instagram/@kumo_power)

The inclusion of Hikaru Utada as the ending song performer clearly marks a special moment for this anime. Utada is known as one of the most influential Japanese singers, with many hit songs that are popular worldwide.

Her presence brings a new vibe to this long-running anime. The song Pappa Paradise is expected to provide a fresh touch while still fitting the warm atmosphere typical of the everyday life story in CHIBI MARUKO-CHAN. Many fans are also curious about what the vibe of the song will be when it is finally played in the special episode at the end of March.

(kpl/afd)