MANILA, Philippines — Mana Ashida is set to star as Maomao in the live-action adaptation of The Apothecary Diaries, which is scheduled to premiere worldwide on Prime Video in 2028.
Prime Video Japan announced the adaptation on X (formerly Twitter), confirming Ashida as the actress who will portray the series’ sharp-witted protagonist.
The actor who will play Jinshi, the handsome and influential palace official who becomes closely involved with Maomao, has yet to be announced.
The live-action project is based on the popular The Apothecary Diaries franchise, which has reportedly sold more than 57 million copies worldwide.
A palace mystery
The story follows Maomao, a young apothecary raised in the pleasure district who is sold to the imperial palace and becomes a low-ranking servant in the rear palace.
Although she holds a lowly position, Maomao’s knowledge of medicine and pharmacology draws her into a series of mysterious illnesses, poisoning cases and other intrigues within the imperial court.
Her intelligence and keen powers of observation eventually catch Jinshi’s attention. The influential palace official enlists Maomao’s help in investigating the various mysteries unfolding inside the palace.
From light novel to global hit
Written by Natsu Hyuga and illustrated by Toko Shino, The Apothecary Diaries began as a light novel series published by Shunfunotomo.
The franchise has since expanded into two manga adaptations: one written by Itsuki Nanao and illustrated by Nekokurage, and another written and illustrated by Minoji Kurata.
The light novel is published in English by J-Novel Club, while Square Enix publishes the manga in English.
The series has also become a major anime success, with two television seasons released so far for a total of 48 episodes.
More Maomao before 2028
Fans will not have to wait until the live-action adaptation to see more of Maomao.
The anime’s third season is scheduled to premiere on Oct. 2, 2026, with its second cour set for April 2027. An original movie is also planned for release between the two cours.
With the live-action adaptation still several years away, the upcoming anime releases will give fans more of Maomao’s story while anticipation builds for Ashida’s take on the beloved apothecary in 2028.
