Highschool of the Dead, also known as HOTD, is one of the most popular zombie anime of all time. It beautifully combines zombie fantasy with the ecchi theme, creating a one-of-a-kind story. There are many fans eagerly waiting for Highschool of the Dead season 2, even after 14 years since the anime ended.
Unfortunately, though, the producers and studio have remained silent about releasing a sequel. There has been no news about a second season in over a decade.
However, recently, there have been some rumors surrounding a possible sequel. But is it true? Will we ever see the sequel in our lifetime? What’s holding back the producers? Find all the answers below.
Highschool of the Dead Season 2 Overview
| Name of the Season | Highschool of the Dead |
| Season Number | Season 2 |
| Genre | Action, Survival, Ecchi |
| HOTD initial Release Date | July 5, 2010 |
| HOTD Season 2 Release Date | No official dates announced |
| HOTD Season 2 Manga Source Material | Volumes 5-7 |
Highschool of the Dead Season 2: Release Date & Renewal Status
Highschool of the Dead, also known as Apocalyptic Academy, is an anime adapted from Daisuke Sato’s manga. Season 1 aired in 2010. Sadly, Sato’s death in 2017 left the manga and anime unfinished.
Despite the first season’s success, producers didn’t pursue a sequel, leaving fans uncertain. With Sato gone, prospects dimmed further.
The Japanese animation studio does not seem to be interested in producing a second season. But there are rumors that an American studio has shown interest in continuing the series.
While details remain scarce, fans eagerly await any news on the series’ future. Let’s analyze the possibilities together.
Is There Enough Source Material For A Sequel?
Highschool of the Dead is adapted from the manga of the same name. It is also called Gakuen Mokushiroku Haisukūru obu za Deddo in Japanese.
The manga started publishing in August 2006 and continued until April 2013. However, after that, the mangaka (author) fell sick and went on hiatus.
Later in 2017, the mangaka died, leaving the story unfinished.
The first season of HOTD covered the story until volume 4 of the manga. Before the mangaka left us, he wrote a total of seven volumes.
So, we only have 3 more volumes left for adaptation, which is not enough for another season. The best we can expect are some OVA episodes or a movie.
What Will Happen In Highschool of the Dead Season 2?
Attention: Manga spoilers ahead!
In the first season’s post-credits scene, the group reaches Taiei Shopping Town after their humvee breaks down. Three manga volumes remain unadapted.
Season 2 may adapt the remaining manga volumes. The main characters ally with another survivor group settled in a mall. But they are facing internal strife despite being well-supplied.
They seek refuge in a police station. Policewoman Asami Nakaoka struggles to maintain peace. This postpones departure to find Rei and Takashi’s parents. However, Takashi and his group plan to leave discreetly.
A potential Season 2 could explore pre-outbreak events and the possibility of a return to normalcy.
Also Read >> 6 Animes Like HighSchool Of The Dead
Which Studio Will Animate The Next Season?
While a second season of “Highschool of the Dead” remains unconfirmed, the first season’s producers might handle the sequel. Co-producers include Geneon Universal Entertainment, AT-X, and Showgate.
Madhouse, known for animating the first season, may handle the sequel. Geneon Universal Entertainment has produced anime classics like “Hellsing Ultimate” and “Kaichou Wa Maid-Sama!”
AT-X, active since 2000, has produced popular series like “Steins;Gate” and “Re:Zero.” Showgate, established in 2003, produced hits like “Food Wars!” and “Code Geass.”
Madhouse, in the industry since 1972, has animated renowned series like “One Punch Man,” “Death Note,” and “Hajime no Ippo.”
If all of these companies come together to animate the next season of HOTD, it will be nothing short of legendary!
Where Can I Watch Highschool of the Dead Season 2?
While you’re waiting for “Highschool of the Dead” Season 2 news, you can stream Season 1 online in the US. Unfortunately, it’s not on Crunchyroll.
Hulu offers both subbed and dubbed versions starting at $7.99/month. Bundle options include Hulu, Disney+, and ESPN+ for $12.99/month.
Due to the ecchi and fanservice nature of the anime, it is not available on a lot of other streaming platforms.
So, even if season 2 of Highschool of the Dead releases, it will likely be available only on Hulu and a select few services.
That said, you can still watch the new episodes on Blu-ray. Once the next season finishes airing, its Blu-ray version will be released. You can buy it from vendors like Amazon and eBay.
