Introduction
“Shikimori’s Not Just a Cutie” (Kawaii dake ja Nai Shikimori-san) is a popular romantic comedy anime series based on the hit manga by Keigo Maki. The series flips traditional gender dynamics by following an established couple: a notoriously unlucky high school boy and his beautiful, sweet girlfriend who occasionally shifts into a surprisingly cool, fiercely protective “heartthrob” persona.
Latest Updates & News
- February 18, 2023: The original manga series by Keigo Maki officially concludes its serialization in Kodansha’s Magazine Pocket.
- July 10, 2022: The television anime adaptation successfully wraps up its 12-episode broadcast run.
- April 10, 2022: The anime series officially premieres on Crunchyroll for international audiences.
Essential Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Title | Shikimori’s Not Just a Cutie (可愛いだけじゃない式守さん) |
| Release Date | Spring 2022 (April 10, 2022) |
| Studio / Agency | Doga Kobo |
| Genre | Romantic Comedy, Slice of Life, School |
Synopsis & Plot Summary
Yuu Izumi is a high school student whose life is plagued by an unbelievable streak of bad luck. From getting hit by rogue objects to constantly tripping, his daily routine is fraught with minor disasters. However, his high school life takes a bright turn thanks to his girlfriend, Micchon Shikimori. On the surface, Shikimori is the perfect, sweet, and cute girlfriend. But whenever Izumi finds himself in danger, her demeanor instantly changes into a sharp-eyed, incredibly cool “heartthrob” who effortlessly saves the day. The story follows their wholesome daily lives, showcasing their unwavering affection for each other alongside their quirky group of friends.
Voice Cast & Staff
Main Cast
- Micchon Shikimori: CV Saori Onishi (JP) / Macy Anne Johnson (EN)
- Yuu Izumi: CV Shuichiro Umeda (JP) / Bryson Baugus (EN)
- Shu Inuzuka: CV Nobuhiko Okamoto (JP) / Clifford Chapin (EN)
- Kyo Nekozaki: CV Misato Matsuoka (JP) / Morgan Lauré (EN)
- Yui Hachimitsu: CV Rina Hidaka (JP) / Molly Zhang (EN)
Production Staff
- Director: Ryota Itoh
- Assistant Director: Shohei Yamanaka
- Series Composition: Yoshimi Narita
- Character Design: Ai Kikuchi
Related Content & Features
Interviews
Trailers & Visuals
- Official Main Trailer: Highlights the contrast between Shikimori’s cute everyday behavior and her protective, “cool” action sequences, accompanied by the opening theme song “Honey Roller Coaster” by Nasuo☆.
Editorial Recommendation
Why You Should Watch/Follow Shikimori’s Not Just a Cutie
For international fans tired of the prolonged “will-they-won’t-they” tension typical of the rom-com genre, this series offers a refreshing change of pace. It begins with the main couple already dating, allowing the narrative to focus purely on wholesome, diabetes-inducing fluff and the hilarious subversion of the “knight in shining armor” trope. Doga Kobo’s stunning character animation further elevates Shikimori’s transitions from cute to cool, making it a must-watch feel-good anime.

