The wait is almost over for fans anticipating the continuation of one of anime’s biggest hits. JUJUTSU KAISEN’s intense action and compelling characters will return in January 2026 with Season 3, officially titled “Jujutsu Kaisen: The Culling Game Part 1.” This premiere date was announced during the anime’s fifth-anniversary celebration in Japan. According to Crunchyroll News, the streaming service has secured exclusive rights to broadcast the new season across North America, Central America, South America, Europe, Africa, Oceania, the Middle East, and CIS territories.
The Culling Game: A Brutal New Chapter
Season 3 plunges viewers directly into the aftermath of the devastating Shibuya Incident arc, adapting Gege Akutami’s renowned “Culling Game” arc from the manga. This arc is noted for its brutal battles, introduction of new characters, and emotionally charged confrontations. The Express Tribune reports that the storyline promises to be a pivotal moment in the series.
Studio and Creative Team
The production of Season 3 is once again entrusted to Studio MAPPA, the animation studio responsible for the previous seasons and the JUJUTSU KAISEN 0 film. Returning to helm the project is director Shota Goshozono. Hiroshi Seko will handle series composition, ensuring a faithful adaptation of Akutami’s work. The character designs will be crafted by Yosuke Yajima and Hiromi Niwa, while Yoshimasa Terui will compose the musical score, as confirmed during the anniversary event.
Returning and New Voice Cast
The Japanese voice cast will feature the return of familiar voices, including Junya Enoki as Yuji Itadori, Yuma Uchida as Megumi Fushiguro, and Megumi Ogata as Yuta Okkotsu. As the Culling Game arc introduces a host of new characters, fans can anticipate a wave of new voice actors joining the cast. According to Beebom, notable new characters set to debut include Higuruma, Takaba, Kashimo, and Naoya, each playing a significant role in the unfolding narrative.
Teaser Trailer and Storyline Hints
A teaser trailer released during the anniversary stream offered a glimpse into the dark and despairing state of Yuji Itadori following the Shibuya Incident. The trailer also teased a confrontation between Yuji and Yuta Okkotsu, hinting at the complex relationships and conflicts that will drive the new season. Daily Jang highlights that the stakes will be higher than ever as the Culling Game unfolds, testing the limits of the characters’ abilities and resolve.
Manga’s Conclusion and Season’s Structure
The adaptation of “The Culling Game” arc arrives after the original manga by Gege Akutami concluded its serialization in Weekly Shonen Jump in September 2024. This allows the anime adaptation to proceed without the constraints of an ongoing manga series. It has been indicated that “The Culling Game” arc will be divided into multiple cours, with “Part 1” premiering in January 2026, potentially leading to a dramatic cliffhanger that sets the stage for the series’ final act.
Exclusive Early Access: Jujutsu Kaisen: Execution
In preparation for the premiere of Season 3, fans can look forward to a special edition movie, “Jujutsu Kaisen: Execution,” premiering theatrically in Japan on November 7, 2025, and in North America on December 5, 2025. Yahoo News UK reports that this film will provide a recap of the Shibuya arc and will also include the first two episodes of Season 3, offering an early look at the unfolding narrative of the Culling Game.
Global Impact and Anticipation
The continuation of JUJUTSU KAISEN is a highly anticipated event for its global fanbase, solidifying its position as one of the most successful anime series of the decade. The return of the series promises to deliver the high-stakes drama and visually dynamic battles that have captivated audiences worldwide. With the adaptation of the intense Culling Game arc, Season 3 is poised to be a defining chapter in the JUJUTSU KAISEN saga.
