Citrus is a popular anime series in the yuri (girls’ love) genre, originally released in 2018. Based on the manga series written and illustrated by Saburouta, the anime was produced by the studio Passione. Directed by Takeo Takahashi and Naoyuki Tatsuwa, both known for their work on the popular anime series Dakaichi: I’m Being Harassed by the Sexiest Man of the Year, Citrus originally aired on AT-X, Tokyo MX, SUN, and BS Fuji between January 6 and March 24, 2018. The first season gained significant attention, thanks to its compelling story and engaging characters. Additionally, the anime’s availability on streaming platforms like Crunchyroll and Funimation helped the series reach a global audience. Despite the success of the first season, fans have been eagerly waiting for a second season for several years. So, will there be a continuation of this beloved anime?
Citrus Season 2 Plotline
Synopsis: Yuzu Aihara, a high school girl, had a different expectation for her first day at her new school after her mother remarried. She was unprepared for the rigid, strict environment of the school. Instead of making new friends and finding her ideal high school crush, Yuzu ends up clashing with the head of the student council, Mei. What Yuzu doesn’t realize at first is that Mei is her half-sister. As their relationship develops, Yuzu learns that love and hate can be closely intertwined. Over time, Yuzu begins to explore her own feelings and sexual identity, leading her to a deeper understanding of her complex relationship with Mei.
After the First Season: The first season of Citrus was filled with intense emotions, love triangles, and confusing dynamics between the characters. As the season concluded, Mei finally confessed her feelings to Yuzu. However, Yuzu was unable to reciprocate clearly, leaving an unresolved and tense atmosphere between them. If the anime is renewed for a second season, it will allow Yuzu to explore her feelings further and bring clarity to their complex relationship, offering fans the opportunity to witness the emotional growth and resolution of their bond.
Will There Be a Second Season of Citrus?
As of December 25, 2024, neither studio Passione, manga publisher Ichijinsha, nor any other related company has officially renewed the anime for a second season. However, there has also been no official cancellation. It’s important to note that the production of anime seasons, especially sequels, can sometimes take years to come to fruition. This wait can often range from 5 to 6 years, depending on various factors.
At this point, we can only speculate about the potential for a new season of Citrus. The likelihood of a second season depends on several key factors, such as the availability of source material, the ongoing popularity of the anime, and sales figures. These elements will play a crucial role in determining whether or not the anime will be renewed for another season. Fans will have to wait and see if these factors align in favor of a continuation.
Manga Status of the Anime
As mentioned earlier, the Citrus anime is a TV adaptation of the manga series of the same name, written and illustrated by Saburouta. The manga, originally published by Ichijinsha, consists of 10 volumes in total and was serialized from November 17, 2012, to August 18, 2018. For English-speaking audiences, the series is available thanks to Seven Seas Entertainment.
Unfortunately, the original Citrus manga is no longer ongoing, which could be a factor in the delay of a potential second season. When a manga concludes, the promotional efforts behind it tend to diminish, which can affect the viability of a new anime season that might have previously boosted manga sales. However, the good news is that a sequel manga series titled Citrus Plus is currently ongoing and has already released 6 volumes.
The first season of the anime stayed quite faithful to the original manga, adapting the first 4 volumes. There are 6 remaining volumes that could be used as source material for a second season. For those eager to continue the story, the manga’s 5th volume picks up where the anime left off, providing more material to explore for future adaptations.
Popularity and Disc Sales of Citrus
Disc sales are an important metric for anime production, as they generate financial returns. However, there has been a noticeable decline in disc sales in recent years, due in part to changing viewing habits. Despite this, sales figures still provide valuable insight when compared to other anime released during the same period. In the case of Citrus, the Blu-Ray and DVD sales from its winter 2018 season were relatively modest, with only 1,342 units sold. This figure fell well short of industry targets.
While Blu-Ray sales suggest a new season may be unlikely, it’s important to note that Citrus is not just dependent on physical media. The anime has also been broadcast on global streaming platforms like Crunchyroll and Funimation, which helps broaden its reach. In terms of overall popularity, Citrus ranks 436th on MyAnimeList’s popularity chart, a respectable position for an anime released in 2018. Additionally, the anime has garnered around 57k followers on X, which, while above average, may not be sufficient to push it towards a second season. On the other hand, it is a positive sign that the X account still continues to post and promote the series.
When is the Second Season of Citrus?
As of December 2024, the Citrus anime has not been renewed for a second season. However, there has been no formal cancellation either. Given that anime renewal cycles can sometimes take 5-6 years, it’s possible that the second season could still be on the horizon. Based on the current status of the anime and its production studio, the probability of a second season is estimated at around 30%. While the anime has sufficient source material and has maintained a certain level of viewership, the production studio, Passione, is a relatively small company that has been focusing on other projects in recent years. The studio has produced several anime and OVA series, but none have received a sequel, which may further lower expectations for a second season of Citrus. Despite these challenges, there is still hope for a new season if demand and interest remain high. If renewed, the second season could potentially air in 2026 or beyond.