The creator of the beloved manga series “Komi Can’t Communicate,” Tomohito Oda, has reportedly decided to focus on taking care of their child rather than immediately launching a new manga project.
This news has caused quite a stir among fans who have been eagerly anticipating what Oda might create next after the tremendous success of their breakout hit.
The Success of Komi Can’t Communicate
Since its debut in 2016, “Komi Can’t Communicate” has captured the hearts of readers worldwide with its heartfelt story about Shouko Komi, a girl with severe social anxiety who dreams of making 100 friends in high school. The manga’s relatable themes of social awkwardness and personal growth resonated with audiences, leading to its adaptation into a successful anime series in 2021 .
The anime, produced by OLM and directed by Ayumu Watanabe, brought Oda’s characters to life with stunning animation and voice acting that perfectly captured the manga’s essence.
The series has maintained a strong following, with fans appreciating its authentic portrayal of social challenges and the supportive community that helps Komi overcome her obstacles.
Details Serialization and Volume Information
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Serialization Start | May 18, 2016, in Weekly Shōnen Sunday |
| Serialization End | January 29, 2025, with chapter 499 |
| Total Volumes | 37, with volume 37 released on March 18, 2025 |
| Special Feature | Volume 37 includes a special epilogue chapter, making total chapters 500 |
| Adaptations | Live-action drama (2021), anime seasons (2021, 2022) |
| Global Reach | Licensed in North America by Viz Media, Southeast Asia by Shogakukan Asia |
Creator’s New Focus
While no official statement has been released by Oda themselves, reliable industry sources suggest that the creator has made a conscious decision to step back from immediate new manga projects to dedicate time to their family, particularly their young child.
古見さ～～～～～～～～～～～～ん！ pic.twitter.com/x1zTAd35jT
— オダトモヒト (@ooodaaaatooo) March 17, 2025
This decision highlights the growing recognition among creative professionals of the need to balance professional ambitions with personal responsibilities.
Many artists and writers in the manga industry face immense pressure to continuously produce work, often at the expense of their personal lives. Oda’s choice represents a shift toward prioritizing family well-being, setting a precedent that may influence other creators to make similar decisions when faced with comparable circumstances.
What This Means for Fans
For fans eagerly awaiting Oda’s next creation, this news might be bittersweet. While it means a potential delay in new original work, it also signals that the creator values quality of life and may return with fresh perspectives and renewed creativity in the future.
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In the meantime, fans can revisit the “Komi Can’t Communicate” manga and anime, which continue to be available through various platforms. The series remains a testament to Oda’s talent for crafting stories that blend humor, heart, and important social messages.
As Tomohito Oda takes this well-deserved break to focus on family, fans can appreciate the lasting impact of “Komi Can’t Communicate” and look forward to whatever the creator might bring when they return to the spotlight. The manga industry’s evolving understanding of work-life balance may ultimately lead to more sustainable creativity and healthier professional environments for artists worldwide.
