Event Report: 'The Uncle Who Loves Cute Things' from BookLive Group Makes Its Debut at Anime Expo, Pugtarou's First Real-Time Interaction with Overseas Fans

BookLive Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo; President & CEO: Masaru Dan’o) announced that Pugtarou, the mascot character from 'The Uncle Who Loves Cute Things'—a title published by Flex Comics, a BookLive Group company—appeared at the official panel 'Ascendance of Bookworm And Your Next Obsession presented by ytv animation & YTE' hosted by Yomiuri Television and YTE at Anime Expo 2026, North America’s largest anime event, held on July 4, 2026 (local time) in Los Angeles, USA.

The series has already announced a TV anime adaptation set to premiere in October 2026, making this appearance its first overseas promotional event following the anime announcement.

Pugtarou Takes the Stage, Eliciting Cheers from International Fans

The panel was held in a venue with approximately 750 seats and featured talks, video screenings, and audience participation segments across multiple anime titles.

'The Uncle Who Loves Cute Things' was introduced in the latter half of the panel. Following a teaser video screening, Pugtarou made a live appearance on stage.

His appearance was met with loud cheers from the audience, and the warm reception from international fans was evident. Chants of 'PAGTARO!' and 'Kawaii!' echoed throughout the venue, highlighting the excitement.

Dance Performance and Selfie Sessions Unite the Audience

The panel included a dance performance by Pugtarou and selfie opportunities with attendees.

During the dance segment, audience members actively participated by waving their hands, creating a joyful and inclusive atmosphere.

Attendees gathered in front of the stage to take commemorative photos with the character, turning the event into a meaningful interaction between the overseas fanbase and the franchise.

Beyond the official panel, Pugtarou also interacted with fans throughout the event venue. Attendees who spotted him took photos, further amplifying his visibility and popularity.

© Tsutomu / COMIC Polaris / Ojikawa Production Committee

Future Developments for BookLive Group Titles

Pugtarou’s appearance at the official Anime Expo panel marked a significant milestone, establishing a direct connection between 'The Uncle Who Loves Cute Things' and North American anime and manga fans.

As BookLive Group expands its content reach domestically and internationally, the company will continue collaborating with partners to deliver the charm of its original IPs through diverse formats.

About the TV Anime 'The Uncle Who Loves Cute Things'

The TV anime adaptation is set to premiere in October 2026. Kohei Oguro will voice the protagonist, Mitsuki Kodō, while Miyu Tomita will voice Pugtarou. The animation production will be handled by Rideen Film.

Centered on Mitsuki Kodō—a cool, handsome middle-aged man who secretly adores cute things—the series is a heartwarming comedy that portrays the everyday lives of adults who cherish their passions.

The anime will also feature original storylines centered on the character Pugtarou, offering fans deeper engagement with the characters and their world.

[Website / SNS]

Official Website: https://ojikawa.com/

Official X (Twitter): @ojikawa_comic

Work Information

© Tsutomu / COMIC Polaris

Original Work: Tsutomu, 'The Uncle Who Loves Cute Things'

Serialized in Flex Comics' 'COMIC Polaris'

Volumes 1–11 currently available (Polaris COMICS / Flex Comics)

• COMIC Polaris Title Page: https://kirapo.jp/polaris/titles/ojisanha

[Story]

The secret of Mitsuki Kodō, a handsome and capable department chief: he’s utterly obsessed with cute characters! But he can’t let his subordinates know… (><) A heartwarming comedy about an uncle who hides his love for cuteness from the world. What will tomorrow bring for Chief Kodō?

About BookLive Co., Ltd.

BookLive operates under the corporate philosophy of 'Creating new value to shape joy,' delivering enriching content and developing IPs through its e-book store and manga apps. As technology evolves, the company aims to elevate creators and content value, with a new vision to become a 'Global Digital Entertainment Company.'

Moving forward, BookLive will leverage the strengths of its group companies and collaborate with various partners to build an ecosystem that continuously produces high-quality content.

URL: https://www.booklive.co.jp/

Company names, service names, and product names mentioned in this text are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.