Girlish Number

Girlish Number was produced by studio Diomedéa and aired in 2016 as an original anime television series. The project was conceived as a lighthearted yet cynical satire of the Japanese voice acting industry, focusing on the professional and personal struggles of Chitose Karasuma, a college student working as a voice actress. The series emerged from a collaboration between author Wataru Watari, known for his work on Oregairu, and illustrator QP:flapper, who provided the character designs.

The series was designed to provide a meta-commentary on the production processes of anime and the idolization of voice talent. By depicting the industry through the lens of a protagonist who is notably lacking in genuine ambition or self-awareness, the creators sought to deconstruct the typical 'struggling artist' trope found in slice-of-life media. Upon its release, the show was noted for its sharp dialogue and willingness to portray the cynical business realities behind the glossy exterior of the voice acting profession.