Dengeki Bunko Classic Comes to Life: The Kept Man of the Princess Knight Drops New Trailer

Publisher Kadokawa and animation studio BLADE have officially dropped a brand new promotional trailer for The Kept Man of the Princess Knight (Himekishi-sama no Himo), locking in a broadcast premiere for January 2027. Adapted from author Tōru Shirogane’s award-winning Dengeki Bunko light novel series, the dark fantasy project features music from iconic musical group MYTH & ROID, who perform the newly revealed opening theme song “TRUE-TABOO”.

What Is the Plot of The Kept Man of the Princess Knight?

Set inside a gritty, lawless settlement known as the City of Dungeons, the story revolves around the contrast between its crime-ridden streets and its singular beacon of hope: Arwin, the Crimson Knight Princess. Arwin leads courageous adventurers into a massive labyrinth beneath the city to uncover a legendary treasure capable of restoring her fallen kingdom.

While many wish to stand by the princess’s side, that position is held by Matthew, a man widely mocked as a cowardly, useless parasite who squanders Arwin’s hard-earned money on gambling, alcohol, and women. However, beneath his scandalous reputation lies a deadly secret: Matthew possesses terrifying strength and lethal combat abilities that remain completely unknown to the public and to the princess herself.

Who Is Directing and Writing The Kept Man of the Princess Knight Anime?

The TV anime adaptation is being produced at studio BLADE under a prominent creative team:

• Director: Chihiro Kumano takes the helm.
• Series Composition: Veteran screenwriter Deko Akao handles the scripts.
• Character Design: Hisao Ishii adapts Saki Mashima’s original light novel artwork for animation.
• Music Composition: Renowned composer Taku Iwasaki provides the soundtrack score.
• Theme Songs: MYTH & ROID performs the opening theme “TRUE-TABOO”, while music unit sajou no hana sings the ending theme “Gika”.

Who Are the Main Voice Actors in The Kept Man of the Princess Knight?

The anime adaptation features an acclaimed voice cast lineup:

• Junichi Suwabe as Matthew
• Mikako Komatsu as Arwin
• Rie Takahashi as Vanessa
• Tetsu Inada as Dezu
• Rika Nagae as April

Originating as a light novel that won the prestigious Grand Prize at the 28th Dengeki Novel Prize in 2021, the series has since expanded into multiple manga adaptations published by Kadokawa.