The wait is almost over for Lazarus, the latest anime series from renowned director Shinichiro Watanabe, best known for Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo. Set to premiere on April 5, 2025, this futuristic action-packed series has fans buzzing with excitement across platforms like X, Reddit, and more.
Lazarus Episode 1 Release Date & Time
Lazarus Episode 1 will debut on Adult Swim’s Toonami block in the United States at 12:00 AM EST (9:30 AM IST on April 5). It will then stream on Max the following day, with international viewers in select Asian territories able to watch it on iQIYI starting April 7, 2025. Japan’s broadcast is scheduled for April 6, 2025, on TV Tokyo and affiliates.
Where to Watch
- U.S.: Catch it live on Adult Swim’s Toonami or stream it on Max the next day.
- Japan: TV Tokyo will broadcast it, with streaming expected on ABEMA.
- Asia: iQIYI will handle the release in Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan.
- Global: While unconfirmed, Crunchyroll might also stream it due to its ties with MAPPA.
What to Expect
Episode 1 introduces a utopian 2052 where Dr. Skinner’s miracle drug, Hapna, has eradicated all diseases—until he reveals its deadly side effect: it kills users after three years. The story follows Axel, a high-jumping, hard-kicking anti-hero leading the Lazarus task force to hunt down Skinner and find a vaccine. Expect a slow build typical of Watanabe’s style, with Axel’s prison break and team formation setting the stage for the series.
Fan Sentiment
The hype is palpable, with fans praising the collaboration between Watanabe, MAPPA, and action director Chad Stahelski. Some worry about the 13-episode run rushing the plot, but overall, Lazarus is expected to be a standout anime of 2025.
