Mana Ashida to Star as Maomao in Prime Video’s The Apothecary Diaries Series

The Apothecary Diaries franchise continues to expand.

Prime Video has officially announced a live-action series adaptation of The Apothecary Diaries. Mana Ashida, known for her roles in Confessions and Pacific Rim Uprising, has been cast in the lead role. Alongside the announcement, the first still of the actress in character as Maomao was released.

Ashida shared that she had been reading Natsu Hyuga’s light novels even before landing the role. Having the opportunity to play the protagonist of her favorite work made her both happy and nervous:

Natsu Hyuga also voiced her support for the casting choice. According to the author, upon meeting Ashida in person for the first time, she immediately thought, “That is Maomao!” The writer praised the set design, costumes, and props, as well as the creators’ attention to court etiquette.

The actor for the role of Jinshi has also been found, though his name is currently being kept secret. In December 2025, Shukan Bunshun reported that the character might be played by Kota Nomura, known for the series My Dress-Up Darling.

At the time, the source claimed that Ashida and Nomura would appear in a feature film adaptation of The Apothecary Diaries. The first part of the information was confirmed, but the project turned out to be a series. Therefore, the details regarding Nomura should still be treated strictly as a rumor.

TOHO and Amazon MGM Studios are producing The Apothecary Diaries. Yuki Saito is directing, and Erika Yoshida is writing the screenplay. The series will be released in 2028, though an exact premiere date and episode count have not yet been disclosed.