Frieren Director Steps Down, Cites Overwhelming Production Demands
Keiichiro Saito opens up about why he handed over directing duties for the acclaimed fantasy anime's second season, revealing the personal toll of keeping pace with the demanding production schedule.
Keiichiro Saito has broken his silence about stepping away from directing duties on Frieren: Beyond Journey's End season 2. His explanation cuts deep. The acclaimed fantasy anime, adapted from Kanehito Yamada's manga and boasting a perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, returns January 16 with Tomoya Kitagawa now at the helm.
Kitagawa previously directed episodes 2, 8, and 25 during the first season. Saito saw something special in his work.
The Handoff Decision
"When we worked together on the first season, I felt that Kitagawa-san had solid ideas and techniques," Saito told Mantan Web. "Even during the first season, I was unable to keep up with the things that I should have been looking after, so I asked Kitagawa-san to help me out. I couldn't think of anyone else to ask, so I asked Kitagawa-san."
Saito remains attached as assistant director. The transition wasn't about creative differences or studio politics. It was about human limitations meeting relentless production schedules.
New Leadership, Familiar Faces
Kitagawa brings continuity to the project. "We have many main staff members, such as art director, color designer, cinematographer, and editor, as well as directing and animation staff who continue to participate, so they are very reliable, and we also have some new members," he explained.
Season 1 wrapped after six months with Frieren and Fern heading north to Aurole. Fern earned First Class Mage status. Frieren got banned from the Magic Association for 1,000 years. Typical Tuesday for an immortal elf.
What's Next
The upcoming 10-episode season promises fresh territory. "Frieren will travel to new lands with her new party. We'll explore fresh dynamics, new combat situations, and all of the characters' changing mindsets. It'll be exciting to see how their roles develop and how Frieren grows through these experiences," director Yuichiro Fukushi revealed at AnimeExpo 2025.
Season 1 streams on Hulu and Netflix. Season 2 hits Crunchyroll January 16. The production change reflects broader industry pressures, but the creative vision stays intact.