The Possessed Pop Star Bows Out
The supernatural idol comedy Phantom of the Idol is preparing for its final encore. According to the August issue of Monthly Comic Zero-Sum, the manga by Hijiki Isoflavone will officially end with its 10th volume, slated for release in 2026.
This offbeat series—which blends idol culture, ghostly possession, and showbiz satire—has built a cult following since its debut in 2017, even inspiring a TV anime adaptation in 2022.
Story Synopsis
Phantom of the Idol (Japanese: Kami Kuzu☆Idol) follows Yuuya Niyodo, the laziest male idol in Japan. He has the looks and voice, but none of the motivation. His career is on the verge of collapse—until he encounters the ghost of Asahi Mogami, a former idol who died young but never gave up on her dreams.
Now haunting Yuuya, Asahi takes over his body on stage, injecting passion, energy, and sincerity into his performances. Together, the unlikely duo becomes a hit—Yuuya supplying the face, and Asahi the heart. As fame grows, so does the question: how long can they keep this possession act a secret?
Main Characters
Yuuya Niyodo
A deadpan, unmotivated idol who would rather nap than dance. Though apathetic at first, his experiences with Asahi begin to change his views on performance and purpose.
Asahi Mogami
The enthusiastic spirit of a deceased idol. Asahi is everything Yuuya isn’t—bright, hardworking, and passionate about her fans. Her ghostly possession gives Yuuya a second chance at success.
Did You Know?
- The manga began serialization in Monthly Comic Zero-Sum in 2017.
- The anime adaptation aired in 2022 and is available on streaming platforms like HIDIVE.
- Despite its comedic tone, the story explores themes of identity, grief, and legacy.
- Author Hijiki Isoflavone chose the idol setting as a way to contrast shallow appearances with deep emotional expression.
- The final volume (Vol. 10) will collect the last chapters currently being serialized.
As Phantom of the Idol takes its final bow, fans can expect an emotional and hilarious send-off for one of the quirkiest idol stories in manga. Volume 10 will mark the end of Yuuya and Asahi’s spectral stage act—but their impact will live on.
