In a recent interview with Yuichiro Fukushi (animation producer), Shoichiro Taguchi (producer) and Mikito Bizenjima (executive producer) in the production of the anime “Sousou in Frieren (Frieren: beyond the end of the journey)”, the success of the series and the impact it had on fans and the industry were discussed. However, some final statements left followers worried about the continuity of the project.

During the interview, the producers expressed satisfaction with the anime's positive reception. Mikito Bizenjima commented: «After it started airing, the original manga sold explosively, which I think is because the anime managed to spark interest in learning more about the story. 'Sousou no Frieren' contains deep themes, but has become a work that can be enjoyed by a wide audience thanks to the talent and effort of the team.».

Shoichiro Taguchi added: «What made us happiest was that so many people liked the anime. Not only did it have high viewership ratings, but it also remained at the top of the rankings of streaming platforms in Japan and overseas. The soundtrack and Blu-ray were very popular, and the series became a beloved work for many thanks to the efforts of the production committee companies.».

Yuichiro Fukushi voiced his relief at hearing the words of his colleagues and highlighted the team's taste for production: «We were chosen as partners by Shogakukan and TOHO Animation, and hearing from my colleagues gave me peace of mind. Many staff members enjoyed working on this play, and that's what made me the happiest. Production has hit a pause point, but I look forward to the day when we can get back on the road for Ende».

However, it was the final statement of Mikito Bizenjima which caused concern: «The original manga is entering new development, so if there is a next time, we hope we can work together again.». This phrase, interpreted by some fans as a “if there is a next time“, generated speculation about the continuity of the animated series.

Japanese fans expressed their concern on social mediawith comments like: “The phrase 'if there is a next time'... does that mean there are no plans for now? I hope they can't talk for confidentiality reasons before the official announcement!“. The fan community eagerly awaits official newslooking forward to the series continuing to explore the deep stories and characters that have resonated so much with audiences:

• «Since the ratings weren't good, I don't think it's possible to make a second season with the same production team. The second season will probably be a low-budget anime series in the late-night block.».
• «Do they not have enough manga material?».
• «They easily have enough material for two 24-episode seasons, and the most popular story, the Golden Land Arc, fits right in. It wouldn't be enough if they planned a third or fourth season.».
• «Lately there are many breaks and it is not being published regularly».
• «It will be difficult to maintain this quality. 'One Punch Man' also changed studios in the second season and a drop in quality was noted».
• «I heard that the delay is actually not the illustrator's fault, but the original author's. Even if they make an original anime story, I don't want to watch it if the original author isn't involved. A story about a high-level magician that I made up would be the worst.».
• «It's not like they're not doing anything, for the company this is a business, not a hobby.».
• «Could it be happening like what happened with 'Kemono Friends', where decisions were made without anyone knowing?».
• «The Golden Land Arc Should Be a Movie».
• «I hope the long hiatus is due to the production of a second season or a movie… although I have no proof, that’s what I hope. I like the same director as ‘Bocchi the Rock’, so I have a dilemma about which movie I want them to make first.».
• «It was a success, but perhaps it didn't make enough money for what was invested, so there may be a change in strategy for the sequel.».
• «They are likely to change directors».
• «It's hard to sustain an anime on viral marketing alone for more than one season.».
• «If it is not broadcast while it is at its peak, people will lose interest if too much time passes.».
• «The main series has been on hiatus for a long time. What are they doing?».

Source: Yaraon!