Mana Ashida to Play Maomao in "The Apothecary Diaries" Series for Prime Video - First Still Revealed

The "The Apothecary Diaries" franchise continues to expand.

Prime Video has officially announced a live-action series based on "The Apothecary Diaries." Mana Ashida, known for her roles in "Confessions" and "Pacific Rim Uprising," has been cast in the lead role. Along with the announcement, the first still of the actress as Maomao was released.

Ashida revealed that she had read Natsu Hyuga's light novel even before she was cast. The opportunity to play the heroine of her favorite work both delighted and made her nervous:

Natsu Hyuga also supported the actress's casting. According to the writer, upon her first personal meeting with Ashida, she immediately thought, "That's Maomao!" The author praised the sets, costumes, and props, as well as the creators' attention to court etiquette.

The actor for Jinshi has also been found, but his name is being kept secret for now. In December 2025, Shukan Bunshun reported that Kota Nomura, known for the series "My Dress-Up Darling," might play the character.

At the time, the source claimed that Ashida and Nomura would appear in a feature film adaptation of "The Apothecary Diaries." The first part of the information was confirmed, but the project turned out to be a series. Therefore, information about Nomura should still be regarded as a rumor.

"The Apothecary Diaries" is being produced by TOHO and Amazon MGM Studios. Yuki Saito is directing, and Erika Yoshida is writing the screenplay. The series will be released in 2028, but the exact premiere date and number of episodes have not yet been revealed.