Science SARU’s The Ghost in the Shell has finished its first run, and a new project has already been announced. This updated guide covers the story, characters, release dates and what is known about what comes next.
What Is the Story About?
Set in 2029, the series follows Major Motoko Kusanagi, a full-body cyborg who leads the Section 9 unit, nicknamed the Shell Squad, against cybercrime in near-future Japan. It adapts Masamune Shirow’s 1989-1990 manga in its entirety. One review says it runs from the founding of Section 9 to the capture of the Puppet Master, with side missions along the way.
Characters and Cast
Kusanagi leads the team, with Batou among her allies. In the English dub, Suzie Yeung voices Kusanagi and Bill Butts voices Batou. Reviewers describe this version of the Major as playful and quick-tempered compared with the cooler, more detached portrayals many fans remember.
Release Dates and Where to Watch
The series premiered at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival on June 22, 2026. It aired weekly from July 7 to September 8, 2026, for 10 episodes of about 24-25 minutes each. All episodes stream on Prime Video in more than 240 countries and regions, excluding mainland China, Russia and Vietnam.
Who Made It?
Mokochan directed, EnJoe Toh wrote the scripts and Shuhei Handa designed the characters. Science SARU, known for Dandadan, produced it. Reviewers highlighted the retro, analog look and faithful tone. One review gave it four out of five stars, calling it a faithful return to the source.
What Comes Next
On October 23, 2026, Bandai Namco Filmworks announced a new Ghost in the Shell anime project from Science SARU, with a teaser visual. The format, release date, cast and staff have not been announced, so it is not yet clear whether it is a second season, a film or something else. For the character’s wider legacy, see our list of the most iconic female anime characters and our earlier Ghost in the Shell overview.
Sources: Anime News Network, Wikipedia, Boss Rush Network, Aftermath.