“Umamusume: Pretty Derby,” a Japanese multimedia franchise that reimagines racehorses as anime girls, has built a global following through its hit video game, anime series, manga and music. | CYGAMES
Oct 22, 2026
What should have been a victory lap for “horse idols” failed to get out of the gate this week, underscoring how difficult it is to bring Japanese entertainers to the world despite surging demand.
Developed by Japan’s Cygames, “Umamusume” turns racehorses into anime girls with big ears and tails. The multimedia franchise spans video games, anime and manga, with music playing a major role. Its first North American concerts were set to feature 17 voice actors performing at Los Angeles’ Peacock Theater on Oct. 22 and 23.
Yet all that was dashed on Oct. 20, when Cygames announced the shows had been canceled.
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Source: The Japan Times · Patrick St. Michel
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