In the vibrant realm of anime, the spotlight often gleams upon the world of idols, where music, dreams, and aspirations entwine to create captivating narratives. While the idol genre has traditionally showcased the journeys of female performers, a distinctive wave of male idol-centered anime has emerged, bringing with it a fresh perspective and a new set of stories to tell.
In this exploration, we unveil the “10 Best Male Idol Anime,” a curated selection that illuminates the diverse facets of these unique series. From ambitious boys stepping into the limelight to unconventional paths that intertwine with their pursuits, join us on a journey through the melodies and aspirations of anime’s male idol realm.
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Best Male Idol Anime
Ensemble Stars!
GDH RATING
“Ensemble Stars!” takes place at Yumenosaki Academy, a prestigious institution known for cultivating exceptional male idols from different generations. The school’s student council, wielders of considerable authority, staunchly upholds traditional values. Anzu, an incoming transfer student, becomes the first female in the production course, joining classmates Subaru Akehoshi, Hokuto Hidaka, Mao Isara, and Makoto Yuuki—collectively known as the idol unit “Trickstar.”
At Yumenosaki Academy, the stage is set for Dream Idol Festivals (DreFes), electrifying competitions where students showcase their vocal and dance talents, with the audience determining the victor. Triumph in DreFes grants idol units coveted rewards and elevated status. However, the student council’s interference and penalties for unauthorized DreFes compel Trickstar, with Anzu as their producer, to defy the norm. United by a determination for change, they emerge as revolutionaries, aiming to reshape the academy’s idol culture.
B-Project: Kodou*Ambitious
GDH RATING
“B-Project: Kodou*Ambitious” centers around Tsubasa, a newcomer at Gandala Music’s A&R division. Tasked with managing the male idol unit “B-PROJECT,” she navigates the world of three distinct groups: Kitakore, THRIVE, and MooNs. Amidst Tsubasa’s debut role, viewers witness her journey through a series of incidents involving these charismatic young men, each brimming with unique personalities. The anime delves into the challenges and triumphs of both Tsubasa and the idol unit as they strive for musical excellence and forge tight bonds amidst the entertainment industry’s hustle and bustle.
Starmyu
GDH RATING
“Starmyu” follows Yuuta Hoshitani’s journey as he joins the competitive Ayanagi Academy to reconnect with the high school student who inspired his musical aspirations. The academy is renowned for nurturing exceptional musical talent, and admission into the prestigious Musical Department hinges on fierce competition. Hoshitani’s shortcut to entry is joining a Star Team, led by eccentric Itsuki Ootori, a member of the influential Kao Council.
His team includes roommate Tooru Nayuki, fledgling Kabuki actor Kakeru Tengenji, quiet Shuu Kuga, and Kaito Tsukigami, sibling to Ayanagi alumni Haruto. Each member grapples with their weaknesses while aiming to stand out in the Ayanagi Festival, amidst rivalry from other skilled Star Teams, including the remaining Kao Council members. This anime intricately navigates their collective journey of growth, friendship, and performing arts excellence.”
IDOLiSH7
GDH RATING
Tsumugi Takanashi is made the manager of her father’s new male idol group on her first day of work at his production agency. There are seven young boys in the group, and Tsumugi’s first job is to cut four of them. However, she refuses to do this after seeing how well the boys work together as a team. They become IDOLiSH7 and prepare to take on the competitive world of idols.
The iDOLM@STER SideM
GDH RATING
“The iDOLM@STER SideM” introduces a refreshing twist to the traditional idol anime narrative. Set in the world of a newly formed entertainment agency, 315 Production, the show takes a novel approach by featuring prospective male idols who have diverse professional backgrounds. These aspiring idols, once lawyers, surgeons, pilots, and more, now find themselves on a journey of self-discovery and transformation in pursuit of their dreams.
The unique aspect lies in the agency’s inclusive philosophy of welcoming individuals who had previously embarked on vastly different career paths. This not only adds depth to the characters’ personalities but also brings an intriguing blend of skills and experiences to their idol pursuits. As they grapple with their transition from their former roles to the spotlight of idol stardom, viewers are treated to a tale of growth, camaraderie, and the universal aspiration of reaching the pinnacle of the entertainment world.”
I★Chu
GDH RATING
“I★Chu: Halfway Through the Idol” takes us to Étoile Vio School, where a fresh batch of aspiring male idols, known as “I-Chu,” embark on a journey of self-discovery and stardom. The school’s unconventional bear principal sets the tone, delivering an unusual speech that sets them on a unique path. As these determined boys undergo rigorous training, they find themselves grappling with a fundamental question: “What is an idol?”
Against the backdrop of their challenges and camaraderie, the anime’s standout element is the fusion of school life, friendship, and the pursuit of individuality. Each I-Chu strives to define their identity in the world of idols, creating a compelling narrative thread. Through hard work and determination, they gradually unveil their talents and personalities, illuminating their journey to find their own spotlight.
“I★Chu” stands out for its refreshing take on male idol-themed anime, weaving a captivating narrative around the boys’ journey to discover their unique answers to the question of what it truly means to be an idol.
Tsukipro The Animation
GDH RATING
The four leaders of idol groups SolidS, SOARA, QUELL, and Growth must compose four new songs for their respective units to perform at the Tsukino Concert. Shiki Takamura of SolidS, Sora Oohara of SOARA, Shuu Izumi of QUELL, and Kouki Etou of Growth all have their own struggles as they work to create new songs and put on a great performance.
Eternal Boys
GDH RATING
“Eternal Boys” offers a refreshing twist on the traditional idol anime genre by centering around six middle-aged men who embark on an unexpected journey of self-discovery. With a blend of success and setbacks in their personal histories, these characters unite with a common goal: to form an idol group that defies societal norms and age-related expectations. The anime’s uniqueness lies in its exploration of how these men grapple with challenges not typically seen in conventional idol narratives.
As they confront their age and physical limitations, “Eternal Boys” resonates with themes of resilience, friendship, and the pursuit of dreams that know no bounds. Through their music and performances, the group redefines what it means to be an idol, proving that passion and determination can overcome any obstacle. This anime delves into the uncharted territory of male idolhood, carving its path with a message that inspiration and transformation can bloom at any stage of life.
Given
GDH RATING
Mafuyu Satou, a high school student, encounters fellow student Ritsuka Uenoyama while taking a nap on the gymnasium staircase. Uenoyama berates Satou for letting his guitar’s strings rust and break and agrees to fix it and teach Satou how to play.
Satou’s voice is strikingly beautiful, filling Uenoyama with the determination to make Satou the lead singer of the band. Though reticent at first, Satou takes the offer after an emotional meeting with an old friend.
With the support of his new friends, Satou must not only learn how to play guitar, but also come to terms with the mysterious circumstances that led him to be its owner.
Visual Prison
GDH RATING
“Visual Prison” unveils a captivating world where vampires, ruled by the enigmatic Scarlet Moon, engage in the annual “Visual Prison” competition. This visual kei contest bestows extraordinary power upon the vampire who delivers the most mesmerizing melody. The stage is set for an intense clash between ECLIPSE, upholders of the established order, and LOST EDEN, advocates of might.
Enter Ange Yuki, a self-doubting boy who embarks on a journey to find his musical idol in Harajuku. However, his path crosses with the fierce rivalry between ECLIPSE and LOST EDEN, leading to his transformation into a dhampir—part-human, part-vampire. Guided by the enigmatic musician Guil Brion, Ange prepares to participate in Visual Prison.
Unique Aspect: In a genre often dominated by female idols, “Visual Prison” stands out by presenting a male-centric narrative set in a world of vampires and musical battles. The blend of visual kei aesthetics, supernatural elements, and Ange’s personal journey to harness his musical prowess adds a fresh and distinctive layer to the male idol anime landscape. As the countdown to the competition ticks away, Ange’s quest to assemble a capable team promises a thrilling race against time that will captivate audiences with its striking visuals and unique premise.