The anime community is buzzing with frustration as fans of The Apothecary Diaries learned that the highly anticipated Episode 19 of Season 2 has been delayed by a week, now set to air on May 23, 2025. The unexpected pause, attributed to scheduling conflicts, has sparked heated discussions among viewers, with some playfully pointing fingers at Hollywood icon Tom Cruise as the potential cause. This delay, announced in late April, comes at a critical point in the series, leaving fans eager for answers and resolution. Here’s a closer look at why this break is hitting the anime world so hard and what fans can expect in the meantime.
The Apothecary Diaries, known as Kusuriya no Hitorigoto in Japanese, has captured hearts worldwide with its unique blend of historical drama, mystery, and sharp-witted protagonist Maomao. Set in a fictional empire inspired by Tang Dynasty China, the series follows Maomao, a young apothecary who navigates the intrigues of the imperial palace with her medical expertise and keen intellect. Since its debut in October 2023, the anime has earned praise for its stunning visuals, compelling storytelling, and vibrant characters, making it a standout in the 2025 winter anime season.
Season 2, which premiered on January 10, 2025, has been delivering gripping episodes weekly, with Episode 19—titled “Festival”—originally slated for May 16. However, the official announcement from the anime’s production team revealed that a special program would replace the episode on that date, pushing the broadcast to May 23. The news, first shared on the anime’s official website and social media, cited “program scheduling” as the reason for the hiatus, but offered little detail about the cause. This vagueness has fueled speculation and frustration among fans, who are deeply invested in the unfolding story of Maomao and Jinshi, the charismatic palace official.
For fans, the timing of this delay couldn’t be worse. Season 2 has been building momentum with intense plot developments, including revelations about Jinshi’s royal identity and Maomao’s growing role in solving palace mysteries. Episode 19 is expected to dive into a festival arc, a fan-favorite moment from the original light novel series by Natsu Hyūga. The delay disrupts the weekly rhythm that viewers have come to rely on, especially since the series has maintained a consistent schedule until now.
The anime’s dedicated fanbase has taken to social media to express their disappointment. Many describe the wait as agonizing, particularly because the story is at a pivotal point. One fan on X wrote, “Just when things were getting so good, they hit us with a delay. I need to know what happens next!” The sentiment reflects the deep connection viewers feel to the characters and the intricate world of The Apothecary Diaries. For a series known for its nuanced storytelling and subtle foreshadowing, even a one-week break feels like an eternity.
One of the more intriguing aspects of this delay is the speculation surrounding Tom Cruise. While the official statement from the production team mentioned only “program scheduling,” some fans have jokingly suggested that Cruise’s promotional activities in Japan might be to blame. The Hollywood star, known for blockbuster films like Mission: Impossible, is a major draw in Japan, and his appearances often command significant media attention. A post on X humorously claimed, “Tom Cruise is stealing Maomao’s spotlight!” While there’s no concrete evidence linking Cruise to the delay, the theory has gained traction online, adding a lighthearted twist to fans’ frustration.
In reality, the scheduling conflict is likely due to a broader programming decision by Nippon TV, which airs The Apothecary Diaries on its Friday Anime Night block. Japanese television networks occasionally shuffle anime schedules to accommodate special events, sports broadcasts, or promotional programs. In this case, the slot on May 16 will be filled by a special episode titled “Palace Boys’ Night In SP,” featuring the voice actors of Jinshi (Takeo Otsuka), Gaoshun (Katsuyuki Konishi), Basen (Tatsumaru Tachibana), and Lakan (Toshiyuki Toyonaga). The program promises behind-the-scenes insights, a review of the season so far, and the introduction of new cast members, offering fans a consolation prize during the wait.
While the delay is a letdown, the special program on May 16 is shaping up to be a treat for fans. Described as the series’ first all-male cast feature, the show will highlight the chemistry among the voice actors, who bring the palace’s key male characters to life. The inclusion of Toshiyuki Toyonaga, who recently debuted as the enigmatic Lakan in Episode 42, has sparked excitement, as fans are eager to hear his perspective on joining the series. The program will also include a fun segment called “Even Non-Maomao Can Tell! Palace Boys Ranking Showdown,” where the cast will blindfold-test foods like mushrooms and honey, mimicking Maomao’s keen senses.
The special episode is a strategic move by the production team to keep fans engaged. By offering exclusive content and teasing new characters, the program aims to soften the blow of the delay and maintain the series’ momentum. Additionally, the announcement of The Apothecary Diaries Volume 16, set to release in Japan on May 30, 2025, gives fans something else to look forward to as they await the next episode.
The delay of The Apothecary Diaries Episode 19 highlights a broader trend in the anime industry, where scheduling conflicts and production demands often disrupt release schedules. Unlike Western television, which typically releases full seasons at once, anime relies on weekly broadcasts, making delays particularly noticeable. While The Apothecary Diaries has avoided major production issues in the past, this hiccup underscores the challenges of balancing creative output with network demands.
Fortunately, the production team at TOHO Animation Studio and OLM has a strong track record, and there’s no indication that this delay signals deeper problems. The series is expected to resume its regular schedule after May 23, with Season 2 likely concluding in late June or early July, given its 24-episode run. Fans can take comfort in knowing that the delay is only temporary and that the team is committed to delivering high-quality episodes.
As the wait for Episode 19 continues, fans have plenty of ways to stay connected to The Apothecary Diaries. Rewatching earlier episodes is a great way to catch subtle details and foreshadowing, as the series is known for its layered storytelling. The first season, available on Crunchyroll, is also worth revisiting for those who want to relive Maomao’s early adventures. For readers, the light novels and manga adaptations offer a deeper dive into the story, with the manga by Itsuki Nanao and Nekokurage providing stunning visuals.
The anime’s collaboration with Universal Studios Japan, announced earlier this year, is another exciting development. The event, featuring a stage show with the voice cast, underscores the series’ growing popularity and cultural impact. Fans can also engage with the community on platforms like Reddit and X, where discussions about the delay, the special program, and upcoming episodes are in full swing.
The delay of The Apothecary Diaries Episode 19 to May 23, 2025, is undoubtedly a disappointment for fans, but it’s a minor bump in the road for a series that continues to shine. The special program on May 16 offers a fun distraction, and the promise of new characters and story arcs keeps anticipation high. While the Tom Cruise theory adds a humorous twist, the real focus remains on Maomao and her journey through the imperial palace.
As fans count down the days to May 23, the delay serves as a reminder of the passion and dedication that The Apothecary Diaries inspires. With its rich storytelling and unforgettable characters, the series is well worth the wait. For now, fans can look forward to the special episode, rewatch their favorite moments, and join the conversation online as they await the next chapter in Maomao’s story.
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