For fans captivated by Oshi no Ko, AnimeKing brings a curated list of anime that resonate with similar themes of ambition, secrets, and the mesmerizing yet tumultuous entertainment world. Oshi no Ko explores the life of Ai Hoshino, an idol who enchants audiences with her charm and talent but hides a hidden, heartbreaking truth. With an unexpected twist, her fan Gorou Amemiya becomes entangled in her life in a way he never anticipated, experiencing the entertainment industry’s pressures and passions from an unexpected viewpoint.

This complex blend of drama, ambition, and raw emotion makes Oshi no Ko a standout in the Latest Popular Anime lineup. For those seeking a deeper dive into anime that touch on similar themes—whether it’s the struggles of fame, the cost of ambition, or complex human connections—this list features AnimeKing’s top Anime Ranking 2024 recommendations. Each series offers a unique perspective, perfect as an anime recommendation for beginner fans who were drawn into the world of Oshi no Ko. From tales of resilience to the hidden facets of the entertainment industry, these selections are bound to keep you on the edge of your seat.

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12. Perfect Blue: The Perils of Fame and Identity

• Release Date: February 28, 1997
• Studio: Madhouse
• Director: Satoshi Kon
• Source Material: Novel by Yoshikazu Takeuchi
• Genre: Psychological, Drama, Horror
• Streaming Service(s): Shudder

Perfect Blue, directed by the renowned Satoshi Kon, takes viewers deep into the psyche of Mima Kirigoe, a former idol attempting to reinvent herself as an actress. Mima leaves her girl group, CHAM!, only to encounter the harsh realities of the entertainment world as she steps into the unsettling, unpredictable realm of acting. As her career intensifies, Mima finds herself stalked by an obsessive fan, and a disturbing website appears, claiming to be her diary. This haunting psychological thriller plunges into themes of fame, identity, and societal expectations, with Kon’s masterful direction using surrealism and tension to mirror Mima’s deteriorating mental state.

This story explores how fame’s facade can chip away at self-identity and lead to a haunting disassociation from reality. Through a carefully crafted narrative, Perfect Blue exposes the dark underbelly of the entertainment industry and the personal sacrifices artists often make to remain relevant. Its layered storytelling and mind-bending psychological horror have cemented it as a timeless classic, exploring how societal and personal pressures shape—and sometimes break—the individuals behind the glamour.

11. Kami Kuzu Idol: A Lighthearted Look at Idol Life

• Release Date: Summer 2022
• Studio: Studio Gokumi
• Genre: Comedy, Supernatural, Idol
• Episodes: 10

Kami Kuzu Idol offers a humorous and somewhat supernatural twist on the idol genre, following the story of Yuuya Niyodo, an unmotivated idol who sees his job solely as a paycheck. Lacking passion for the entertainment industry, Yuuya’s attitude doesn’t go unnoticed, earning him a reputation for lackluster performances. Things take an unexpected turn when the ghost of Asahi Mogami, a former idol with an unbreakable spirit, possesses him and transforms his stage presence. Asahi’s zeal for idol life brings a new spark to Yuuya’s performances, creating a lively blend of comedy and supernatural antics.

While Yuuya initially resists the influence of his enthusiastic ghostly partner, he slowly grows to appreciate and engage with the world of idols. Through its lighthearted approach, Kami Kuzu Idol examines the value of passion and drive in any career, especially in an industry driven by fan engagement and charisma. It’s an engaging series that sheds light on the highs and lows of idol culture, giving fans insight into the more whimsical side of entertainment while underscoring the importance of commitment.

10. Vivy: Fluorite Eye’s Song – AI Idols in a Battle for Humanity

• Release Date: April 3, 2021
• Studio: Wit Studio
• Director: Shinpei Ezaki
• Episodes: 13
• Streaming Service(s): Funimation

Set in a futuristic world, Vivy: Fluorite Eye’s Song tells the story of Vivy, an AI designed to bring happiness through her singing, and Matsumoto, an AI from the future with a mission to stop an impending AI rebellion. Vivy, programmed to “make everyone happy with her singing,” is thrust into a series of missions to avert humanity’s destruction. This partnership creates a fascinating dynamic as Vivy and Matsumoto navigate ethical dilemmas, personal goals, and the limits of artificial intelligence, ultimately questioning the role of AI in society.

What makes Vivy remarkable is its exploration of autonomy and purpose through its AI protagonists. The series goes beyond typical AI themes by examining Vivy’s personal growth as she grapples with her mission and her own desires. Beautifully animated with stunning fight sequences and hauntingly beautiful musical performances, Vivy is both a visual and emotional journey that addresses the thin line between humanity and artificiality, making it a captivating exploration of identity and existence.

9. Erased: The Power of Time Travel to Right Past Wrongs

• Release Date: January 8, 2016
• Studio: A-1 Pictures
• Director: Tomohiko Ito
• Episodes: 12
• Streaming Service(s): Crunchyroll, Hulu

In Erased, Satoru Fujinuma discovers he can briefly rewind time to prevent accidents. However, his ability takes on a new meaning when he’s transported back 18 years, to a time before a series of kidnappings that haunt his past. With a chance to save his childhood friends and prevent his mother’s murder, Satoru must piece together clues while reliving his childhood. The combination of suspense, drama, and mystery makes Erased a gripping exploration of trauma and redemption.

The story’s time-travel elements are well-balanced with intense emotional moments that show the effect of tragedy on children and the lingering impact on their future selves. Satoru’s journey through time becomes one of self-discovery as he tries to resolve the guilt and grief tied to his past. The anime beautifully blends suspense with tender moments, exploring themes of friendship, courage, and the lengths one would go to protect loved ones.

8. Bakuman: The Trials of Becoming a Successful Mangaka

• Release Date: October 2, 2010
• Studio: J.C. Staff
• Creators: Tsugumi Ohba (Writer), Takeshi Obata (Illustrator)
• Episodes: 75
• Streaming Service(s): Hulu, Peacock, Tubi

Bakuman centers on two high school friends, Moritaka Mashiro and Akito Takagi, who share the dream of becoming successful mangaka, or manga creators. With Mashiro as the artist and Takagi as the writer, they set out to tackle the competitive manga industry, facing challenges from tight deadlines to creative blocks. Their journey not only introduces viewers to the realities of manga publishing but also sheds light on the emotional ups and downs of pursuing a creative career in a high-stakes environment.

The series is equally focused on personal growth and the value of perseverance. While the road to success is filled with obstacles, Bakuman emphasizes friendship, love, and ambition as driving forces behind the protagonists’ relentless pursuit. This anime is as much about the craft of manga as it is about following one’s passion, making it a motivational tale for anyone with a dream.

7. Wonder Egg Priority: Addressing Trauma Through a Fantastical Lens

• Release Date: January 13, 2021
• Studio: CloverWorks
• Director: Shin Wakabayashi
• Episodes: 12

Wonder Egg Priority follows Ai Ohto, a lonely teenage girl who receives a mysterious egg that leads her to an alternate dimension where she confronts symbolic representations of trauma. In this surreal and dreamlike world, Ai must face monsters while helping others overcome personal traumas. This anime pushes the boundaries of psychological storytelling, using vivid imagery to depict the dark and often misunderstood aspects of adolescence, such as bullying, identity crises, and mental health issues.

The series is unflinching in its portrayal of heavy themes, challenging viewers to confront difficult emotional truths alongside Ai and her friends. Through its unique blend of action, fantasy, and psychological drama, Wonder Egg Priority creates a meaningful narrative that touches on themes of resilience, recovery, and self-acceptance. Its visually stunning animation enhances the emotional intensity, making it a unique and thought-provoking journey into the complexities of mental health.

6. March Comes in Like a Lion: The Healing Power of Connection

• Release Date: October 8, 2016
• Studio: Shaft
• Creator: Chica Umino
• Episodes: 44
• Streaming Service(s): Crunchyroll

March Comes in Like a Lion explores the emotional journey of Rei Kiriyama, a young shogi prodigy struggling with depression and social isolation. Rei is haunted by a sense of purposelessness, until he meets the Kawamoto sisters, who provide him with warmth and stability. The anime’s pacing allows for a deep and realistic portrayal of depression, healing, and the importance of human connections in overcoming adversity.

The series balances introspective character development with moments of humor and warmth, making it both poignant and uplifting. Through Rei’s journey, March Comes in Like a Lion sheds light on the silent battles people often face and the importance of kindness and community in navigating life’s challenges. This anime’s thoughtful exploration of mental health makes it a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

5. Durarara!!: Interconnected Lives in the Heart of Tokyo

• Release Date: January 8, 2010
• Studio: Brain’s Base
• Creator: Ryogo Narita
• Episodes: 60
• Streaming Service(s): Hulu

Durarara!! takes place in the vibrant Tokyo district of Ikebukuro, where supernatural elements and human dramas intertwine. The show follows a diverse cast of characters, from a high school student to a legendary headless rider, each with unique stories and connections. As their lives intersect, the anime’s plot deepens with layers of mystery, action, and supernatural intrigue, painting a complex picture of urban life.

The anime’s charm lies in its eccentric characters and the unpredictable turns their lives take. Each episode unveils new relationships, secrets, and motivations, showing how chance encounters and choices ripple through their lives. With its intricate storytelling and unique mix of genres, Durarara!! offers a fresh and captivating look at the highs and lows of life in a bustling city.

4. Nana: A Journey Through Friendship, Love, and Rock ‘n’ Roll

• Release Date: April 5, 2006
• Studio: Madhouse
• Creator: Ai Yazawa
• Episodes: 47
• Streaming Service(s): HIDIVE, Hulu

Nana follows two women named Nana, each with vastly different personalities but similar dreams of making it in Tokyo. Nana Komatsu is a hopeless romantic, while Nana Osaki is a punk rocker with ambitions of fame. The series chronicles their lives, friendships, and the ups and downs of their romantic and professional pursuits. Through their unique journey, the anime explores the bittersweet realities of adulthood, love, and ambition.

The two Nanas find strength and companionship in each other, supporting one another through heartbreaks and triumphs. The show’s raw emotionality and complex characters resonate with viewers, making it a heartfelt exploration of dreams, love, and friendship. Nana remains a powerful anime that captures the essence of life’s highs and lows, showing the beauty and pain of following one’s dreams.

3. The Saga of Tanya the Evil: A Ruthless Soldier Reborn in a War-Torn World

• Release Date: January 6, 2017
• Studio: NUT
• Creator: Carlo Zen
• Episodes: 12
• Streaming Service(s): Crunchyroll

In The Saga of Tanya the Evil, a ruthless salaryman is reincarnated as Tanya Degurechaff, a young girl with immense magical power. With a strategic mind and a heart of steel, Tanya rises quickly through the ranks of the military in a world torn by war. Her ruthless ambition and cold demeanor make her both feared and respected, as she faces complex challenges on the battlefield and in her personal quest for survival.

This dark fantasy challenges the typical reincarnation trope by giving its protagonist a morally ambiguous and calculating personality. Tanya’s battles and the ethical questions surrounding war and power add a layer of depth, making it a compelling watch. The anime’s themes of authority, ambition, and survival create an intense, war-driven narrative that keeps viewers captivated.

2. Spy x Family: A Family of Secrets and Espionage

• Release Date: April 9, 2022
• Studios: Wit Studio, CloverWorks
• Creator: Tatsuya Endou
• Episodes: 37 (Season 1 & 2)
• Streaming Service(s): Crunchyroll, Hulu

In Spy x Family, elite spy Twilight must pose as a family man for an undercover mission, adopting a young telepath named Anya and marrying Yor, a skilled assassin. Together, they navigate the peculiarities of family life while keeping their true identities hidden from one another. The series mixes humor, suspense, and action as this unconventional family tackles both domestic and espionage challenges.

The series stands out for its heartwarming depiction of found family and the lengths Twilight, Yor, and Anya go to protect one another. Each character brings something unique to the family, and their growth together is as touching as it is entertaining. Spy x Family is a delightful mix of action, comedy, and heart, capturing the essence of familial bonds.

1. Classroom of the Elite: A High-Stakes Battle of Wits

• Release Date: July 12, 2017
• Studio: Lerche
• Creator: Shōgo Kinugasa
• Episodes: 38
• Streaming Service(s): Crunchyroll

Classroom of the Elite centers on Kiyotaka Ayanokoji, a reserved but intelligent student at a competitive high school where students are ranked by academic performance. The anime explores the school’s ruthless social dynamics, as Kiyotaka quietly navigates the hidden agendas and intense pressures of the ranking system. As the story unfolds, his true abilities are revealed, making him a force to be reckoned with.

This psychological thriller sheds light on the struggles of young people to find their place in a cutthroat academic environment. Through Kiyotaka’s interactions with peers, the show addresses themes of ambition, manipulation, and personal growth, creating an intense viewing experience. Classroom of the Elite captivates viewers with its mind games and complex characters, making it a thrilling take on high school life

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Conclusion:

For fans captivated by the layered storytelling and dark exploration of the entertainment industry in Oshi no Ko, these top 12 anime recommendations offer similarly complex narratives, intense character arcs, and emotional depth. Series like Perfect Blue and Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso delve into the pressures of fame, personal struggles, and the pursuit of artistic dreams, resonating with themes found in Oshi no Ko.

As these recommendations gain attention in the latest popular anime discussions, they continue to make waves in the anime rankings for 2024. These anime not only entertain but also provide thought-provoking insights into the intricacies of fame, making them perfect for fans who enjoyed Oshi no Ko‘s unique take on the industry. For more recommendations, analyses, and updates on the best anime to watch, stay connected with Animeking for the latest must-watch titles!