JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: Steel Ball Run anime allegedly in production

On Thursday, December 12, 2024, rumors began circulating on X (formerly Twitter) that a JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Steel Ball Run anime adaptation was now in production. The rumors claimed that David Production, the studio that has adapted mangaka Hirohiko Araki’s original series over the last decade-plus, will return to develop the series.

These rumors, which come from X user and reputable general anime news source @SugioLITE (Sugoi), also claim that the series's production has only recently begun. This would also track given that David Production recently announced the two-part third and final season of their Fire Force television anime adaptation.

However, while exciting, these JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Steel Ball Run anime rumors are just that.

JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Steel Ball Run anime rumors come ahead of official franchise event in April 2025

While these alleged JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Steel Ball Run anime rumors are just that, as of this article’s writing, additional evidence exists to support the claim. Arguably the most damning piece of evidence is the upcoming JOJODAY event for Araki’s franchise. While technically a fan event, it will see official voice actors from the franchise in attendance and feature Warner Bros. branding, suggesting some official involvement.

Also serving as supporting evidence is David Production’s work on Fire Force season 3, as mentioned above. With production on the full two-part season likely winding down, it would make sense for the studio to begin work on their next JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure television anime adaptation.

It’s also worth noting that these franchises are likely the two biggest ongoing productions for the studio, with their Undead Unluck anime adaptation a close third.

Additionally, there are plenty of reasons to be cautious regarding Sugoi’s claims, even with how exciting news of a JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Steel Ball Run anime adaptation can be. Sadly, there are no other reputable news accounts corroborating this information from Sugoi. However, it’s also worth noting that Sugoi has been the first to post such news in similar scenarios before, eventually being proven right.

There’s also the myriad of issues surrounding producing a JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Steel Ball Run anime series. One of the most obvious is the part’s heavy use of horses by nature of its 19th century American setting. Horses are considered extremely difficult to animate, even with the help of CGI production. For many years, the fandom has been convinced a Steel Ball Run anime could never happen as a result of these difficulties.

Likewise, it’s best to exercise caution when dealing with such news, and not to invest too significant a stock in uncorroborated claims and rumors. While Sugoi has certainly proven reputable in the past, it’s nevertheless best to maintain this policy considering how highly anticipated the series is, and the doubts surrounding its production.