[Oshi No Ko]
Synopsis
In the entertainment world, celebrities often show exaggerated versions of themselves to the public, concealing their true thoughts and struggles beneath elaborate lies. Fans buy into these fabrications, showering their idols with undying love and support, until something breaks the illusion. Sixteen-year-old rising star Ai Hoshino of pop idol group B Komachi has the world captivated; however, when she announces a hiatus due to health concerns, the news causes many to become worried. As a huge fan of Ai, gynecologist Gorou Amemiya cheers her on from his countryside medical practice, wishing he could meet her in person one day. His wish comes true when Ai shows up at his hospital—not sick, but pregnant with twins! While the doctor promises Ai to safely deliver her children, he wonders if this encounter with the idol will forever change the nature of his relationship with her. [Written by MAL Rewrite]
Audience Consensus
Oshi no Ko is a polarizing anime. Some viewers praise its realistic commentary on the dark side of the entertainment industry and high production values. However, others criticize its shallow approach to complex themes, weak character development, and reliance on tired tropes, resulting in a self-contradictory narrative.
Strengths
- Realistic commentary on the idol and entertainment industries, especially the dark side
- High production standards
- Characters played off each other well; story moved forward without rushing
Weaknesses
- Fails to delve into the darkest contortions of the entertainment industry, hinting at phantoms rather than confronting them
- Story is plagued by a unfocused aftermath to the great prologue episode
- Characters are hollow shells
- Reincarnation subplot is a weak link
- Show panders to the entertainment and anime industries; portrays suicide poorly